Can You Fish the Connecticut River with a Vermont License in 2024?

As an angler in Vermont, you may be wondering if your fishing license is valid for the Connecticut River. The answer depends on where exactly you plan to fish and what type of license you hold. In this article, we’ll dive into the specifics of fishing regulations on the Connecticut River in 2024, focusing on the reciprocal licensing agreement between Vermont and New Hampshire.

Reciprocal Fishing Licenses on the Connecticut River

The Connecticut River forms the border between Vermont and New Hampshire for a significant portion of its length. To enhance fishing opportunities and simplify regulations, Vermont and New Hampshire have a reciprocal licensing agreement for the Connecticut River.

According to the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department, “All New Hampshire resident and Vermont resident fishing licenses are valid for taking of fish from the Connecticut River for that portion of the river between New Hampshire and Vermont including the bays, set backs and tributaries, only to the first highway bridge crossing the tributaries on the Vermont and New Hampshire sides.”

This means that if you hold a valid fishing license from either Vermont or New Hampshire, you can fish anywhere along the Connecticut River that forms the border between the two states, as well as in the bays, setbacks, and tributaries up to the first highway bridge.

Regulations for Non-Resident Anglers

The reciprocal licensing agreement does not extend to all anglers. Non-residents who hold a New Hampshire non-resident fishing license are subject to different regulations:

“All other nonresidents with a N.H. nonresident fishing license shall only take fish east of the Vermont low water mark while on the Connecticut River.”

In other words, non-residents with a New Hampshire non-resident license can only fish on the New Hampshire side of the Connecticut River, east of Vermont’s low water mark.

General Fishing Regulations for the Connecticut River

In addition to the reciprocal licensing agreement, there are some general fishing regulations that apply to the Connecticut River:

• The river is open to fishing all year, except for a closed season from October 16 to December 31 in a specific section between Northumberland, New Hampshire, and Canaan, Vermont
• No more than six ice fishing devices may be used while ice fishing, and no more than two lines may be used when fishing in open water
• Lead sinkers and lead jigs one ounce or less are prohibited

Species-specific regulations, such as size limits and daily creel limits, can be found in Table 3 of the Vermont Guide to Fishing Laws.

Importance of Protecting the Connecticut River

The Connecticut River is a vital natural resource that supports diverse ecosystems and provides recreational opportunities for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts. In 2024, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) will be reviewing licenses for hydroelectric projects along the Connecticut River, which could have significant impacts on the river’s ecology and accessibility for fishing.

It’s important for anglers and concerned citizens to stay informed about these licensing decisions and advocate for the protection of the Connecticut River. By working together, we can ensure that this iconic waterway remains healthy and accessible for generations to come.