Urgent warning to boaters facing $250 fines under new rules & must pay new fees

Virginia is raising several boating and hunting fees and warning operators about new enforcement measures starting October 1. The Virginia Board of Wildlife Resources approved increases for boat registrations statewide, including a $5 jump overall. A registration for boats under 16 feet will become $37 (from $32), while boats 40 feet and over will cost $55 (from $50). The board said the added money offsets increased boating-related costs like law enforcement, education, maintenance of boating access sites, and administration. Children under 13 will also be required to wear life jackets on boats. Violations can bring fines up to $250, and anglers are newly barred from stocking rock bass and flathead catfish, both labeled invasive species.