To learn about all of the requirements for holding a fishing contest in Utah, you should read the fishing contest rule.
For a summary of when you would need a COR, you can refer to the answers to the common questions below. Alternately, you can download a list of guidelines for Type I fishing contests in PDF format that summarizes the key points of the rule.
Common questions about fishing contest Certificate of Registration (COR) requirements
Answer:If you want to hold a Type I fishing contest or a tagged fish contest, you must have a Certificate of Registration (COR).
For a definition of a Type I or tagged fish contest, please read the rule governing fishing tournaments and contests: R657-58: Fishing Contests and Clinics.
You can also download a list of guidelines for Type I fishing contests in PDF format that summarizes the key points of the rule.
A COR is not required for Type II fishing contests and fishing clinics.
Answer:According to the rule, a Type I contest involves any of the following:
50 or more participants
25 or more boats
Awards of $2,000 or more in cash, prizes or a combination of the two
A live weigh-in
You must also ensure that all contest participants decontaminate their boats according to the directions on the Invasive Aquatic Species self-certification form, and display their completed form in the windshield of their boat for the duration of the fishing contest. (If you are running the fishing contest, it is your responsibility as the contest sponsor to make sure that every boat has completed the self-certification form.)
Additionally, depending on whether your tournament or contest is for warmwater or coldwater species, there are additional requirements—such as contest size restrictions or weigh-in and release procedures. For details and the definition of warmwater and coldwater species, please read the rule, R657-58, or download the Type I fishing contest guidelines.
Finally, you must submit a post contest report to the Division within 30 days after your Type I contest. (A report form will be provided when the COR is issued.)
Answer:To apply for a COR, download and complete the application form and submit it—at least 45 days before the proposed contest date—to the Salt Lake City DWR office.
In addition to the application, you’ll also need to submit a $10 nonrefundable handling fee and the proposed contest rules. The proposed contest rules must include a complete schedule of entry fees, cash awards and prize values, and the written protocol for disinfecting boats and preventing the spread of aquatic nuisance species that will be provided to participants.
If your Type I contest is approved, you will also be required to pay a fee based on the number of participants.
Answer:The application for a COR for a tagged fish contest is the same as the application for a Type I contest, however, the requirements are different.
Among other differences, only one tagged fish contest can be held on a waterbody that is approved for that type of contest. Also, the application must be submitted between December 1 and 31 in the year prior to when you would like to hold your contest. (For example, to hold a tagged fish contest in 2011, you would have to submit your contest between December 1–31, 2009.)