RS 303.8 - Special apprentice license; commercial taking of saltwater fish; requirements
A. The commission shall provide for the obtaining of a special apprentice license for the authorized commercial taking of saltwater fish.
B. The cost of obtaining the special apprentice license shall be one-half the cost of the regular commercial fisherman's license or permit.
C. The requirements for obtaining the license shall include:
(1) That the applicant shall remain engaged in the fishing activity for at least two years as an apprentice to a person who possesses a valid regular commercial fisherman's license and permit issued by the department, and who is engaged in the commercial taking of saltwater fish by approved methods. The applicant will agree to being aboard the vessel with his mentor while engaged in the fishing activity under this permit.
(2) That the applicant shall meet qualifying fishing income criteria necessary to obtain a license and/or permit for the apprentice program within the two-year apprenticeship. Income may be made from any commercial fishing activity while accompanying a licensed commercial fisherman.
D. The special apprentice license shall authorize, under the same conditions as the regular license or permit, the commercial taking of saltwater fish by the apprentice during the period for which it is valid. The special apprentice license shall be valid for one year.
E. At the end of the two-year period, the holder of a special apprentice license may apply for a regular commercial fisherman's license or permit for spotted sea trout, rod and reel, mullet, or restricted species as provided in R.S. 56:325.4.
F. A person who holds or previously held a commercial fisherman's license, or who has been convicted of a class three or greater violation, shall be precluded from applying for an apprentice license under the provisions of this Section.
G. The commission shall adopt rules and regulations to implement the provisions of this Section.
Acts 1997, No. 1413, §1, eff. July 15, 1997.