Press Release  Healey-Driscoll Administration Announces $45,000 for Saltwater Recreational Fishing Access Projects

BOSTON — The Healey-Driscoll Administration announced today the award of $45,485 for saltwater fishing public access improvements in Tisbury and Fairhaven. The Department of Fish and Game’s (DFG) Division of Marine Fisheries (DMF) awarded funds using revenues from the sale of saltwater fishing permits, a portion of which are dedicated to improving angler opportunities and public access to Massachusetts coastal waters.  

“As an avid angler, it’s important to me that all have access to the best saltwater fishing opportunities that our state has to offer. By improving and maintaining these vital public access facilities, we ensure that current and future generations have the opportunity to cast a line and create lifelong memories. Our administration is proud to support these local projects," said DFG Commissioner Tom O’Shea. 

“These projects will not only improve fishing opportunities for anglers who utilize the facilities in Tisbury and Fairhaven, but also support the state’s blue economy,” said DMF Director Dan McKiernan. “We are excited to maintain this state-local partnership for the good of recreational anglers and preserving our state’s unique coastal culture.”   

The Marine Recreational Fisheries Development Fund was established in 2011 when the Massachusetts Legislature created the state recreational saltwater fishing permit to comply with a federal mandate to improve estimates of saltwater fishing effort and catch data. Administered by DMF and overseen by the Marine Recreational Fisheries Development Panel, the fund supports fisheries research, management, and public access programs. Under state law, one-third of all permit fees collected are dedicated to recreational saltwater fishing infrastructure projects in Massachusetts, ensuring better access to coastal fishing for all. 

The following projects were awarded saltwater recreational fishing grants: 

• Lagoon Pond Boat Launch, Town of Tisbury
  • Tisbury is being awarded $25,000 to install solar-powered lighting and monitoring cameras at the Lagoon Pond boat launch. These amenities will improve the experience for visitors and enhance public safety for boaters. This relatively small investment will provide benefits for years to come.
• Pease Park Boat Launch, Town of Fairhaven
  • Fairhaven is being awarded $20,485 to enlarge trailer parking spaces at the Pease Park Boat Launch in inner New Bedford Harbor. This will allow for safer parking as the size of boat and trailer combinations have increased since the facility was originally built. 

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