Emergency Burn Ban In Effect 10/26/24 - An emergency burn ban is now in effect for all Connecticut State Parks, Forests, and Wildlife Management areas, prohibiting the use of all outdoor grills, firepits, and campfires, and the kindling and use of flame outdoors. DEEP and local agencies are working to contain several active fires across the state. Please avoid all affected State Parks and Forests, as well as the blue-blazed Mattabesett Trail. The Enduro Trail in Voluntown and portions of North Stonington within the Pachaug State Forest are closed at this time. Please note that today's forest fire danger report remains at an 'extreme' level. More information about the current fire danger, burn ban and recommended safety measures can be found here

Fishing Regulations | Reglamentos de Pesca

The Fisheries Division is proposing several changes to the sport fishing regulations in the inland district. Public comment is currently open until 11:59 pm on May 31, 2024. All are encouraged to review the changes and then provide comment either for or against. Review the proposed changes and see how to submit formal comment on our Proposed Regulation webpage. Any changes will take effect on January 1, 2025. Questions may be sent to mike.beauchene@ct.gov

Freshwater Regulations (Digital Fishing Guide)

Saltwater Regulations (Digital Fishing Guide)

Helpful links for Fishing rules and regulations

The 2024 Fishing Guide* is available for download in English and Spanish. Please note this document is now freshwater onlyThe saltwater regulations will be published at a later date in a separate brochure once they are finalized, which is usually late February.

*There are no changes to freshwater regulations for 2024.

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 2024. 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 

Commissioner Declarations

Striped Bass and Inline Circle Hooks - New Rule 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

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

Contents updated May 2024