some boats just dont come with papers. If theres no motor theres no need to regester. I know when i was out whitewater kayaking i saw registration stickers on kayaks from ohio. That state makes you register just to get on the water and paddle. Guess it depends on size and value of boat on paper work. some boats if bought new all u get is a receipt. Here in ky it use to be all internal combustion engines must be tagged. Now its any motor must be tagged. Our trailers are gonna be next.