If you’re an avid angler looking to fish in the beautiful waters of Rhode Island, you’ll need to obtain a fishing license. The cost of a Rhode Island fishing license varies depending on your residency status and the type of license you need. In this article, we’ll explore the different types of fishing licenses available in Rhode Island and their associated costs.
Freshwater Fishing Licenses
Rhode Island offers several types of freshwater fishing licenses for both residents and non-residents. The fees for these licenses are set by state law and are not subject to change.
For Rhode Island residents (or current members of the U.S. armed forces), the cost of a freshwater fishing license is $21.00. This license allows you to fish in any freshwater stream or pond in the state, with some exceptions.
Non-residents have a few options when it comes to freshwater fishing licenses. The annual non-resident license costs $38.00, while the non-resident tourist license, valid for three consecutive days, is $18.00.
In addition to the regular freshwater fishing license, Rhode Island also offers a combination hunting and fishing license for $38.00. This license is available to both residents and non-residents.
If you plan on keeping or possessing trout, salmon, or charr caught in Rhode Island, you’ll need to purchase a Trout Conservation Stamp for an additional $5.50.
Saltwater Fishing Licenses
Rhode Island also requires anglers to have a saltwater fishing license when fishing in the state’s marine waters. The cost of a yearly saltwater fishing license is $7.00 for Rhode Island residents and $10.00 for non-residents.
For those who don’t need a full-year license, Rhode Island offers a temporary seven-day saltwater fishing license for both residents and non-residents at a cost of $5.00.
It’s important to note that Rhode Island has reciprocal agreements with several states, including New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Maine. If you hold a valid saltwater fishing license from one of these states, you can fish in Rhode Island’s marine waters without purchasing an additional license.
Where to Purchase a Rhode Island Fishing License
There are several ways to purchase a Rhode Island fishing license:
- Online through the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) website
- In person from one of DEM’s licensing agents, such as bait and tackle shops, retail department stores, and some city and town clerk offices
- At DEM’s Boating Licensing & Registration Office in Providence
When purchasing a license online or from a licensed agent, you may be charged an additional Enhance Access Fee (EAF). This fee is $2.00 per license and $0.50 per permit for resident anglers, and $3.00 per license and $1.00 per permit for non-residents. However, there is no EAF for recreational saltwater fishing licenses.
Remember to print out and sign your license for it to be valid. You should also familiarize yourself with Rhode Island’s fishing regulations, which include information on seasons, size limits, possession limits, and specific waterways.
By purchasing a Rhode Island fishing license, you’re not only ensuring that you’re fishing legally, but you’re also contributing to the conservation and management of the state’s aquatic resources. The fees collected from fishing licenses are used for fishery management, habitat development, endangered species programs, and conservation education.
So whether you’re a Rhode Island resident or a visitor, make sure you have the appropriate fishing license before casting your line in the Ocean State’s waters. With a little preparation and the right license, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a fantastic fishing experience in Rhode Island.