How to Get a NOAA Fisheries Permits Account & Apply for a Pacific HMS Permit (2025 Update)

Posted on September 4, 2025 by Tanner Saraspe

If you plan to fish for Highly Migratory Species (HMS) such as swordfish, bluefin tuna, or sharks in federal waters off the U.S. West Coast (if you fish beyond 3 miles), you’ll need a Pacific HMS Permit issued by NOAA Fisheries. As of September 2025, the application system is fully online through the NOAA Fisheries Permits Shop, and the fee is now $31.

What counts as HMS on the West Coast? 

  • Pacific Bluefin Tuna
  • Pacific Albacore Tuna
  • Pacific Yellowfin Tuna
  • Pacific Mahi Mahi (Dorado or Dolphinfish)
  • Pacific Shortfin Mako Shark
  • North Pacific Swordfish
  • Striped Marlin
  • Pacific Skipjack Tuna
  • Pacific Common Thresher Shark
  • Link to the FULL LIST OF HMS SPECIES 

This guide walks you through the process, including the information and questions you’ll need to answer ahead of time.

What You’ll Need Before You Start: 

When applying online, you’ll be asked to provide:

  • Vessel details: USCG Documentation # or State Registration #, name, length, tonnage
  • Refrigeration/freezer type and capacity (ie: Ice)
  • Authorized fishing gear (ie: Deep Set Buoy Gear, Jig etc). 
  • Owner/operator details
  • Business EIN or individual SSN
  • Names, phone numbers, and addresses for all parties associated with the permit
  • Form of payment (credit card or check)
  • You’ll also be prompted with application questions, such as:
    • Who currently owns the vessel? (One or more individuals / One or more businesses)
    • Has the vessel had any previous names? (No / Yes, while US flagged / Yes, while foreign flagged / Yes, under both flags)

Step 1: Create Your NOAA Fisheries Permits Account

Go to https://fisheriespermits.noaa.gov

Click Register and create a username and password.

Verify your account via the email link NOAA sends.

Step 2: Add Your Vessel

Log in, go to “My Vessels” → “Add Vessel.”

Enter your vessel documentation or registration number.

Fill in vessel details and save.

Step 3: Apply for the Pacific HMS Permit

From your dashboard, select “Apply for a New Permit.”

Choose Pacific Highly Migratory Species Permit.

Step 4: Pay the Fee

As of September 2025, the fee for a Pacific HMS permit is $31.

Payments are processed through Pay.gov.

Save your payment confirmation for records.

Step 5: Processing & Receiving Your Permit

After submitting, you’ll see this message:

“Thank you for your application. Please allow 5–7 business days for us to review and process your application. Once processed, you will be able to access your permit in your account. In addition, your permit will be emailed to you. If you have a request, please specify important timeframes or deadlines and we will do our best to respond accordingly. Please email us at wcr-permits@noaa.gov.”

Basically, the processing time: 5–7 business days, delivery is by email and also downloadable from your NOAA account. For urgent requests they recommend sending an email to wcr-permits@noaa.gov with your deadline

Step 6: Keep Your Permit On Board

Print and store a copy on your vessel.

Permits are valid for the calendar year and must be renewed annually.

Remember this is a federal permit. Depending on your fishery, you may also need California state permits.

Disclosure

This information is for general reference only and not legal advice. It reflects what we believe to be accurate as of September 2025. Always confirm requirements directly with NOAA Fisheries and your state agency before fishing.

References:

NOAA Fisheries. (n.d.). West Coast highly migratory species. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Retrieved September 4, 2025, from https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/west-coast/sustainable-fisheries/west-coast-highly-migratory-species

NOAA Fisheries. (n.d.). Highly migratory species. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Retrieved September 4, 2025, from https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/highly-migratory-species

HMS FISHERIES PERMIT NOAA

HMS FISHERIES PERMIT NOAA