GenerallyVessel Registration
Section § 7880
If you own or operate a boat for commercial fishing in California and have a commercial boat registration, you must display a registration number on your boat. The exact way to show this number is decided by the department, with advice from the Division of Boating and Waterways. This number is permanently tied to your specific boat and cannot be transferred to another vessel.
Section § 7881
If you own or operate a commercial fishing boat in California, you must apply for a commercial boat registration. If you're a California resident, you'll pay $250, and if you're a non-resident, you'll pay $750. This registration has to be on board and visible at all times. If your vessel is lost, destroyed, or sold, you need to notify the department right away. Guides with a specific license don't need this registration. The fees mentioned are from 2004 and can be adjusted annually based on costs.
Section § 7891
This law explains that no fishing boat operating in California waters can deliver its catch to places outside the state without a permit from the Fish and Game Commission. If the Commission believes granting a permit won't hinder fishery regulations or lead to overfishing, they may issue one. However, it's illegal if delivering fish elsewhere is already prohibited. Breaking this rule is a misdemeanor, and any boat or equipment involved will be seized and considered public nuisance. Authorities must confiscate these and report to the commission, who will then start legal proceedings for their forfeiture in the county's superior court nearby.
Section § 7892
If you own or run an aircraft for commercial fishing in California, you need to get it registered with the state. Keep the registration with you on the aircraft whenever you're using it for fishing. The registration costs $200.