Southeast For-Hire Electronic Reporting Program

The Southeast For-Hire Electronic Reporting Program implements electronic reporting of for-hire vessel catch data for over 3000 vessels in the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic.   The purpose of this program is to provide more accurate and reliable fisheries information about for-hire catch, effort, and discards. Fishermen will directly improve data collection that is critical to population assessments and better fisheries management. Electronic reporting can also provide more timely, accurate, and reliable information for species with low catches, low annual catch limits, or rarely encountered species. 

The links below provide information on the program and how to remain in compliance with the requirements.  We highly recommend you review the links below, watch the instructional videos, attend one of the webinars, and reach out to us directly with questions.

• Informational Videos
  • Video 1:  Introduction to the Southeast For Hire Electronic Reporting Program Requirements
  • Video 2:  Getting Started with Electronic Reporting
  • Video 3:  Understanding the Position Reporting Requirements (for Gulf permitted vessels)

• Informational Toolkits 

Webinar schedule 

Need more help understanding the requirements of the program?  Attend a webinar.

• For Gulf of Mexico permit holders:
  • December 15, 2020 10:00 AM-12:00 PM EST (Register here)
  • December 15, 2020 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM EST (Register here)

• For South Atlantic permit holders: 
  • December 16, 2020 10:00 AM-12:00 PM EST (Register here)
  • December 16, 2020 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM EST (Register here)

• If you are unable to attend one of these webinars, they will be recorded and posted to the website soon after.

Information for Gulf of Mexico Permit Holders

(If you have both South Atlantic and Gulf permits, this section provides information on what is required)

• Gulf of Mexico Proposed and Final Rule, Fishery Bulletins, Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), and Newsletters
• Informational Toolkit
• Approved Software
• VMS Type Approved Units
• Approved Landing Locations
• VMS Reimbursement Program
• Important Forms
  • Landing Location Request Form 
  • Power Down Exemption Form
  • VMS Installation and Activation Certification

Information for South Atlantic Permit Holders

• South Atlantic Proposed and Final Rule, Fishery Bulletins and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 
• Informational Toolkit
• Approved Software 

Information for Vendors

This page provides documents about the requirements and specifications to be an approved software or hardware vendor for the Southeast For-Hire Electronic Reporting programs.