Recreational Saltwater Fishing License Information

Beginning in 2010, in order to fish recreationally for finfish in Rhode Island's marine waters, saltwater anglers and spearfishers must have:

• A RI Recreational Saltwater Fishing License, or
• A National Saltwater Angler Registration, or
• A recreational saltwater fishing license from a reciprocal state

Exemptions: No license or federal registration is required for:

• Anglers who are under 16 years of age
• Anglers fishing on licensed party or charter boats
• Anglers who hold Highly Migratory Species Angling Permits
• Anglers who are on leave from active military duty
• Anglers who are blind or permanently disabled

RI saltwater fishing licenses can be purchased online at saltwater.ri.gov or contact DEM's Marine Fisheries Program at (401) 423-1923 (M-F, 8:30 am - 4:00 pm).