Fishing Regulations
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.
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
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
- Freshwater FishingFrequently 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 Marine Fishing LicenseFrequently 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
Content last updated in March 2026.