How to Get a RI Fishing License
This guide explains Rhode Island fishing license requirements, license types, fees, exemptions, and purchasing methods to ensure anglers comply with state regulations before fishing. Target audience includes Rhode Island residents, non-residents, visiting anglers, youth, seniors, military members, and anglers with disabilities.
Current members of the armed forces stationed in Rhode Island are eligible for resident fishing licenses.
Free licenses are available for residents over 65 or 100% disabled veterans.
100% disabled individuals must provide documentation to obtain their free license.
Overview Of The Fishing License
Rhode Island offers both freshwater and saltwater fishing licenses. Separate licenses are required to fish in Rhode Island’s coastal waters and inland waters. Freshwater licenses are needed for fishing in lakes, rivers, and reservoirs, while saltwater licenses are required for fishing in the state’s marine and coastal waters.
Anyone fishing in Rhode Island waters must hold a valid fishing license unless they qualify for a specific exemption.
All anglers aged 15 and older must possess a valid Rhode Island freshwater fishing license to fish in inland waters.
All anglers aged 16 and older must possess a valid Rhode Island saltwater fishing license to fish in coastal waters.
Certain exemptions may apply for persons domiciled in Rhode Island, such as specific age groups or individuals with disabilities:
Rhode Island residents over 65 years of age
100% disabled veterans (must provide documentation)
100% disabled individuals (must provide documentation)
Current members of the armed forces stationed in Rhode Island
Fishing license fees support conservation programs, fish stocking, habitat restoration, and long-term management of Rhode Island’s freshwater and marine fisheries.
Types Of Fishing License
Combination Hunting and Fishing License
A combination hunting and fishing license allows eligible residents to hunt and fish under a single license, offering convenience and reduced overall cost. Each license type has a specific fee associated with it, which may vary based on residency status and license duration.
Non-Resident Licenses
Non-resident anglers can obtain either an annual freshwater fishing license or a tourist license valid for three consecutive days. This provides flexibility for both long-term visitors and short-term tourists.
Reciprocity
Rhode Island offers saltwater fishing license reciprocity with New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Maine. Anglers should confirm saltwater reciprocity agreements with these neighboring states before fishing to ensure their license is valid across state lines.
Freshwater fishing license
A freshwater license is required for fishing in inland waters such as ponds, lakes, rivers, and streams. Certain areas, such as fly fishing only areas, may have additional regulations or permit requirements. Anglers who harvest or possess trout, salmon, or charr must purchase a Trout Conservation Stamp in addition to their freshwater license. If you do not plan to catch and possess trout, salmon, or charr, you do not need to obtain a Trout Conservation Stamp. Freshwater fishing licenses are issued for the calendar year. All freshwater licenses expire on December 31.
Saltwater fishing license
An annual saltwater fishing license allows anglers to fish Rhode Island marine waters throughout the year. Saltwater licenses are valid from March 1 to the last day of February. A 7-day saltwater fishing license is available for $5 for both residents and non-residents. If you are planning to catch fish while on a charter with a licensed captain, you don’t need to purchase a saltwater license. Passengers fishing aboard licensed charter or party boats are typically exempt from individual saltwater licensing requirements. Saltwater anglers should always verify current reciprocity rules when fishing near state borders.
License Requirements and Exemptions
General Requirements
To catch fish in Rhode Island, anglers are required to obtain a valid fishing license issued by the state’s Department of Environmental Management (DEM). This regulation is designed to protect the health and sustainability of local fish populations and aquatic habitats. By ensuring that everyone who fishes in state waters is properly licensed, the DEM can better manage resources, monitor fishing activity, and support conservation efforts that benefit both anglers and the environment.
Exemptions
Certain exemptions to the fishing license requirement exist, allowing specific groups or individuals to fish without a license under defined circumstances. These exemptions are carefully regulated to maintain the balance between recreational fishing opportunities and the need to protect Rhode Island’s natural resources. Anglers should always verify their eligibility for any exemption before attempting to catch or possess fish in state waters, as compliance with DEM regulations is essential for the continued enjoyment and preservation of Rhode Island’s fishing areas.
Exemptions include:
Rhode Island residents over 65 years of age
100% disabled veterans (must provide documentation)
100% disabled individuals (must provide documentation)
Current members of the armed forces stationed in Rhode Island
Trout Conservation Stamp
The Trout Conservation Stamp funds trout stocking programs and cold-water habitat improvements. A stamp is required when harvesting or possessing trout, salmon, or charr in designated freshwater waters.
Trout Conservation Stamp requirements:
Required for any angler harvesting or possessing trout, salmon, or charr in designated freshwater waters.
The Trout Conservation Stamp costs $5.
The trout conservation stamp expires on the last day of February each year.
Anglers exempt from fishing license requirements are also exempt from the trout stamp.
Rhode Island designates free fishing days when licenses and stamps are not required.
Fishing License Fees
Resident fishing licenses are offered at a lower fee than non-resident licenses. Below is a breakdown of the current fees for Rhode Island fishing licenses and stamps:
License Type | Online Fee | Vendor Fee |
|---|---|---|
Resident Fishing License | $21.00 | $23.00 |
Non-Resident Fishing License | $38.00 | $41.00 |
Non-Resident Tourist (3 consecutive days) | $18.00 | $21.00 |
Resident Trout Conservation Stamp | $5.50 | $6.00 |
When purchasing a fishing license in person from a licensed agent, an Enhance Access Fee (EAF) may be charged to cover the cost of providing access to licensing services.
Tourist three-day licenses are priced separately from annual licenses. Combination hunting and fishing licenses cost more than a single license but less than purchasing both separately. Additional service or processing fees may apply depending on the vendor. Online purchases may include small transaction or convenience fees. Anglers should always verify current fees before purchasing a license.
Fee Changes in 2025
As of July 1, 2025, the annual resident freshwater license fee will increase to $24, and the non-resident fee will increase to $41.
Where To Buy RI Fishing License
Licenses can be purchased online via RIO – Rhode Island Outdoors, providing convenient access to Rhode Island fishing licenses. You can also buy your license in person from local licensed vendors such as authorized bait shops, sporting goods stores, and town clerk offices. When purchasing online, you will be issued a unique Rhode Island Hunting and Fishing ID (RIHFID), which can be used for future access to renew or purchase licenses. Anglers should print and sign their paper license if carrying a physical copy.
Performing Security Verification
Security verification protects the system from fraud and automated activity. The website uses a security service to protect against malicious bots and unauthorized access. During the purchasing process, the website verifies users to ensure they are legitimate. A page is displayed while the website performs this security verification, and users may see a message or CAPTCHA displayed while the website checks their authenticity. Users should temporarily disable VPNs or proxy services if verification fails. Allow the verification process to complete without interruption.
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