Does the federal saltwater angler registry apply to fishing in state waters?
Generally, no, but with one major exception. Congress specified that the federal registry would only apply to those fishing in federal waters and for anadromous species in any waters, including those in state jurisdiction. In other words, even anglers in non-coastal states like Idaho or Pennsylvania would have to register to fish for salmon or striped bass. The Great Lakes would not be subject to the registry.
