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Fishing Regulations | Reglamentos de Pesca

The 2026 Freshwater Fishing Guide* is available for download in English and Spanish (coming soon). Changes effective January 1, 2026. Questions may be sent to mike.beauchene@ct.gov.

Please note this document is now freshwater only. The saltwater regulations will be published at a later date in a separate brochure once they are finalized, which is usually late February.

Freshwater Regulations (Digital Fishing Guide)

Saltwater Regulations (Digital Fishing Guide)

Helpful Links for Fishing Rules and Regulations

The Fisheries Division has partnered with FishBrain, the world's largest fishing app. This partnership allows CT to have the fishing regulations served up to app users for FREE! Download the app . The Fisheries Division will be printing and distributing a limited number of copies of the guide to fishing license vendors early in 2026. Please direct any questions to mike.beauchene@ct.gov.

As a reminder, the fishing guide is a summary of fishing regulations and definitions. The official version of all of the regulations is found on the webpage for the Secretary of State.

Digital Freshwater Fishing Guide

Digital Saltwater Fishing Guide and our simple one page overview

DEEP Laws and Regulations - Main Page

Commissioner Declarations

Striped Bass and Inline Circle Hooks – Rules and Updates

Additional Useful Links

General information

Aquatic Invasive Species

Fish Consumption Advisory (Department of Public Health)

Trophy Fish Award Program

Tips for Better Catch and Release

Freshwater Fishing

Frequently Asked Questions

State Record Freshwater Fish

Fisheries Management Programs

Migratory Fish Management

Community Fishing Opportunities

Fishing access for those facing physical challenges

Freshwater Fishing Playlist (YouTube)

Learn to Fish with CARE; Fishing Instruction Playlist (YouTube)

Saltwater Recreational Fishing

State Record Saltwater Fish

Marine Fishing License Frequently Asked Questions

Blue Crab Fact Sheet

Shellfishing

Fishing in Coastal State Parks

CT MRIP Marine Angler Survey

Volunteer Angler Survey (Marine)

Saltwater Resource Map

Enhanced Shoreline Fishing Opportunity Sites

How to Catch Saltwater Fish

Saltwater Commercial Fishing

Current Commercial Fishery Possession Limits

Commercial Fishing Information Circular

Content last updated in December 2025.