Fishing Regulations | Reglamentos de Pesca
No changes for 2025 (freshwater) - There will not be any changes to the sport fishing regulations for the inland district for 2025. The 2025 Fishing Guide* is available for download in English and Spanish.
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.
The proposed changes to the sport fishing regulations continue to move through the adoption process and will not be ready for January 2025. As such, the Fisheries Division is opting to implement the next round of changes effective January 1, 2026. For a reminder about these forthcoming changes, please visit our Proposed Regulations webpage. Any new changes will take effect on January 1, 2026. Questions may be sent to mike.beauchene@ct.gov.
Helpful links for Fishing rules and regulations
The 2025 Fishing Guide* is available for download in English and Spanish. 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.
The 2024 Fishing Guide in English and Spanish.
*There are no changes to freshwater regulations for 2025.
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 2025. Please direct any questions to mike.beauchene@ct.gov.
A guide to the timing for required catch and release of trout is available for view/download.
As a reminder this guide is provided as a simple summary of fishing regulations and definitions. The official version are on the web page 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
Striped Bass and Inline Circle Hooks - New Rule and Updates
Additional useful links
General information
Fish Consumption Advisory (Department of Public Health)
Tips for Better Catch and Release
Freshwater Fishing
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
Marine Fishing License Frequently Asked Questions
Fishing in Coastal State Parks
Volunteer Angler Survey (Marine)
Enhanced Shoreline Fishing Opportunity Sites
Saltwater Commercial Fishing
Current Commercial Fishery Possession Limits
Commercial Fishing Information Circular
Content last updated November 2024