Press Release: 7/17/2026
Healey-Driscoll Administration Awards $50,000 for Saltwater Recreational Fishing Access Projects
Projects Will Improve Access to Outdoor Recreation in Cape Cod
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
7/16/2026
MEDIA CONTACT
Julia E. Hopkins, Communications Director
Phone
Call Julia E. Hopkins, Communications Director at 857-408-0362
Online
Email Julia E. Hopkins, Communications Director at julia.e.hopkins@mass.gov
BOSTON — The Healey-Driscoll Administration today announced the award of $50,000 to the Towns of Truro, Barnstable, and Chatham for saltwater fishing access improvements. Funding will enhance recreational fishing opportunities for residents and visitors alike. The Department of Fish and Game’s (DFG) Division of Marine Fisheries (DMF) awarded the funds through revenue from the sale of recreational saltwater fishing permits, a portion of which is dedicated to improving angler opportunities and public access to Massachusetts coastal waters.
“As an avid angler, it’s important to me that residents have access to the best recreational fishing opportunities. Massachusetts is home to some of the greatest landscapes – we need to ensure we are improving and maintaining these fishing areas for future generations to create lifelong memories. We are proud to support these local projects that encourage residents to build connections with our natural world,” said DFG Commissioner Tom O’Shea.
“These projects will not only improve fishing opportunities for shore-based anglers who utilize the facilities in Chatham and Edgartown 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.”
The following projects were awarded saltwater recreational fishing grants:
- Town of Truro,$25,000
- The town will repair piers at the Pamet River State Boat Launch. This funding will support repairs to the existing tie up pilings and purchase of a pump to allow the town to perform routine repairs going forward.
- Town of Barnstable, $25,000
- Funding will support much needed repairs on the Millway Boat Launch. This includes milling and re-paving the asphalt boat launch. The repairs are anticipated to extend the life of this ramp by approximately 20 years.
- The Town of Chatham, $1,650
- The town will create signage that provides a link to marine forecast outside of the protected harbors at five launch locations: Ryder’s Cove, Barn Hill, Old Mill Boat Yard, the Chatham Fish Pier, and Little Mill Pond Landing. This will improve safety on the water for those fishing and boating in and around Chatham.
The projects are funded from revenues in the Marine Recreational Fisheries Development Fund, established in 2011 when the Massachusetts Legislature created a state recreational saltwater fishing permit. Prompted by a federal mandate enacted to improve estimates of saltwater fishing effort and catch data, the permit program provides funds for marine recreational fishing programs, including fisheries research, management, and public access for anglers.
DMF administers the fund with the assistance of the Marine Recreational Fisheries Development Panel, a group of private stakeholders that advises DMF on recreational fishing projects and initiatives. Under the state law that established the recreational saltwater fishing permit, one-third of all license fees are dedicated to recreational saltwater fishing access projects in Massachusetts, ensuring better access to coastal fishing.
“Recreational fishing is an important part of our local economy and way of life on the Outer Cape. These investments will improve public access to our waters, enhance safety for anglers and boaters, and help preserve these opportunities for future generations. I'm grateful to the Healey-Driscoll Administration and the Division of Marine Fisheries for supporting the towns of Truro and Chatham,” said State Representative Hadley Luddy (D-Orleans).
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