MI SB1070

Beginning March 1, 2017, commercial fishing guides on Michigan inland waters must possess a valid permit and a valid fishing license.

Permit applicants must submit an application with name, date of birth, and primary residence address, along with an application fee described in section 48714b.

Permit requirements include: current first aid and CPR certification from American Red Cross or comparable organization; commercial general liability insurance of at least $300,000 per claim and $1,000,000 aggregate; valid Michigan driver's license, state ID card, or sportcard; and no felony or wildlife-related convictions within past 5 years.

Permits are valid for 3 years and can be revoked for ineligibility, false information, or failure to file annual reports within 90 days of deadline.

Commercial fishing guides must file monthly and annual reports detailing counties of operation, fish species, number of clients, catch/release data, and bodies of water used; violations without valid permit result in $2,000 civil fine for first offense and $4,000 for subsequent offenses.