Getting paid to be out on the water catching fish is every fisherman’s dream. Commercial fishing, while logistically challenging and often physically demanding, can be lucrative when done properly. One important aspect to consider before launching any sort of commercial fishing business is the process of acquiring a federal fishing license.

Every state in the U.S. has different rules and regulations when it comes to commercially fishing on their respective waters. In most places, however, state waters end about three miles from shore, and everything beyond that (up to 200 miles) is under federal jurisdiction. Since the odds are good your desired catch will lead you into federal waters, having the appropriate license is paramount.

Read more about a federal fishing license at Commercial Fishing Permits Center.