In a controversy concerning required licensing of operators who charge a fee for vessels that carry fewer than six passengers, the Coast Guard is bending a little. Since the license includes fishing guides who are based in Minnesota, and the testing is more suitable for ocean-going mariners, Rep. Jim Oberstar, D-Minnesota, and U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minnesota, have asked the Coast Guard to ease the requirements.

The agency has developed two new licenses with more suitable testing. A “restricted” license would limit a fishing guide to operating on one or only a few specific waters. A second license would limit boat operators to a specific area and activity, and might apply to commercial towboats in the Boundary Waters or a resort-owned boat that travels to a base camp and back.

The Coast Guard will also offer testing for the Operators of Uninspected Passenger Vessels in Ely, Chisholm and International Falls, making it easier for guides to travel to test locations. Test dates will be announced soon.

To acquire the license, prospective fishing guides must first pass first aid and CPR tests, a physical exam and a drug test. With the final Coast Guard testing, they acquire what is known as the Six Pack License. The new restricted license would cost about half the regular Six Pack license. Before a Coast Guard license is issued, fishing guides must also have a Transportation Workers Identifi-cation Card from the Transportation Security Administration.

For more information, southern Minnesota residents should call the Marine Safety Detachment at 612-725-1871. In northern Minnesota, contact the Marine Safety Unit in Duluth at 218-720-5286.

– St. Paul Pioneer Press