The Virginia Marine Resources Commission (VMRC) has decided to reduce the cost of recreational saltwater fishing licenses, effective April 1.
VMRC voted unanimously to roll back a license increase that was enacted in January because of a budget reduction. However, the new state budget gives the Virginia Marine Resources Commission sufficient funds to offset the budget reduction. As a result, the license increase is no longer necessary.
The cost of an individual recreational saltwater fishing license will drop from $22.50 to $17.50. A license to cover everyone on board a boat for a year will fall from $53 to $48. Other recreational saltwater licenses will decrease as well.
Anglers and charter boat captains who bought their licenses in January, February or March at the higher fee are not eligible for partial refunds, under state law, according to VMRC.
source: Virginia Marine Resources Commission