AK HB297

Establishes the sport fishing angler access account within the fish and game fund to receive revenue from a new sport fishing angler access surcharge.

Creates a sport fishing angler access surcharge applied to all sport fishing licenses, ranging from $4 for resident licenses to $40 for nonresident annual licenses, with exemptions for $5 resident hunting/trapping/sport fishing licenses and free licenses.

Requires surcharge revenue to fund programs that directly benefit license purchasers through development and improvement of access to and services for lakes, ponds, or waterways not related to motor or power boat use.

Allows Yukon residents to obtain nonresident sport fishing licenses at resident rates if Yukon charges Alaska residents comparable fees, and modifies the reference for fee calculations to include the new surcharge provisions.

Takes effect January 1, 2025, with the commissioner authorized to adopt implementing regulations immediately.