In Rhode Island, the rules regarding fishing licenses for seniors and active military personnel are quite straightforward. According to the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM), RI residents who are 65 years of age or older are eligible for a free permanent freshwater fishing license. Additionally, active military personnel stationed in RI can also obtain a free license.
However, it’s important to note that while the license itself is free for these groups, they still need to obtain the license in order to fish legally in Rhode Island. The license can be obtained online through the DEM’s website or from participating vendors throughout the state.
In addition to seniors and active military, there are several other groups that are exempt from needing a fishing license in Rhode Island:
Exemptions from Needing a Fishing License in Rhode Island
Anglers under the age of 16
Anglers fishing on licensed party or charter boats
Anglers who hold a license from a reciprocal state (New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, or Maine)
Anglers who hold a NOAA Fisheries registration
Anglers who hold Highly Migratory Species Angling Permits
Anglers who are on leave from active military duty
Anglers who are blind or permanently disabled
Licensed commercial fishermen fishing in commercial mode
Licensed party or charter boat operators fishing in party/charter mode
It’s also worth noting that no license is required for anglers fishing on the first full weekend of May each year during the state’s free fishing days.
For those who do need a license, the cost varies depending on residency and the type of license. A Rhode Island resident annual freshwater fishing license costs $21, while a non-resident annual license costs $38. A combination hunting and fishing license for residents is available for $38.
For saltwater fishing, the cost is $7 for Rhode Island residents and $10 for non-residents. A temporary seven-day saltwater license is available for both residents and non-residents for $5.
All license fees are deposited into a restricted receipt account managed by the DEM. The funds can only be used to administer and enforce the license program, improve the management of Rhode Island’s marine recreational fisheries, and enhance recreational fishing access opportunities in the state.
In summary, while seniors and active military in Rhode Island are eligible for free fishing licenses, they still need to obtain the license in order to fish legally. There are also several other exemptions, and the cost for those who do need a license varies depending on residency and the type of license. The fees collected help fund the management and improvement of recreational fishing in the state.