RHODE ISLAND FreshwaterFishing 2017-2018 REGULATION GUIDE
Visit our website: www.dem.ri.gov State of Rhode Island & Providence Plantations Department of Environmental Management • Division of Fish & Wildlife THE SIMPLE ACT OF FISHING, PRESERVES FISHING. Every time you purchase a fi shing license or register your boat, a portion of the proceeds go toward preserving our nation’s coastlines, lakes, rivers and streams. Protecting our memories on the water for generations to come.
Learn more at TakeMeFishing.org/Conservation
46831_TMF_PSA_Pg_Ad.indd 1 2/4/11 9:53 AM RHODE ISLAND FreshwaterFishing 2017-2018 REGULATION GUIDE
State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations Governor Gina M. Raimondo RI Department of Environmental Management Director Janet L. Coit Associate Director Larry Mouradjian Assistant Director for Natural Resources Catherine A. Sparks RI Division of Fish and Wildlife Great Swamp Headquarters 277 Great Neck Road West Kingston, RI 02892 (401) 789-7481 • [email protected]
Freshwater and Diadromous Fisheries Section Table of Contents Christine A. Dudley, Deputy Chief of Freshwater and Diadromous Fisheries 2...... Director’s Message 10D������ Designated Trout Waters Phillip A. Edwards, 12������ Diadromous Fishing Supervising Fisheries Biologist 3...... License Information Regulations Alan D. Libby, Principal Fisheries Biologist 3...... Free Fishing Days 13������ Saltwater/Freshwater Patrick McGee, Fisheries Biologist 4...... Prohibited Activities Boundaries Corey Pelletier, Fisheries Biologist 4...... Catch a Golden Trout 14������ Article - History of the Veronica J. Masson, Federal Aid Coordinator 5...... Seasons, Creel Limits, and Northern Pike Program Minimum Size Limits Aquatic Resource Education 16 ������ Article - Aquatic Resource Kimberly M. Sullivan, 6...... Article - Brook Trout in a Education (ARE) Program Principal Fisheries Biologist Changing World Aquatic Resource Education Coordinator 18������ Boating Regulations RI DFW Education Center 7...... New Regulation - Fishing 1B Camp E-Hun-Tee Activities Requiring a Permit 21A������ Award Programs Exeter, RI 02822 24 ������ Sportfishing Records (401) 539-0019 8...... Fish Consumption Advisory [email protected] 8...... Freshwater Fishing Division of Law Enforcement Area Restrictions F. Dean Hoxsie, Chief 24hr Violation Line: (401) 222-3070 Our Mission Our mission is to ensure that the Freshwater, Marine, and Wildlife resources of the State of Rhode Island will be conserved and managed for equitable and sustainable use.
This guide contains a partial compilation of state laws and regulations pertaining to freshwater fishing and other related information. For more detailed information, refer to Title 20 of the General Laws of the State of Rhode Island or visit www.dem.ri.gov 1 Welcome Letter
On behalf of Governor Gina Raimondo, I am excited to introduce the third annual Rhode Island Freshwater Fishing Regulation Guide. This guide is for newcomers as well as seasoned anglers and boaters. It provides current regula- tions related to freshwater fishing and recreational boating and highlights the survey work, initiatives Williamstown, MA | Birmingham, AL and research conducted by the Division of Fish & Wildlife to enhance these recreational opportuni- ties in Rhode Island. Fishing is a popular outdoor activity for people of all ages, attracting residents and tourists About This Guide alike. Whether it is pursuit of bass, trout, or the Northern Pike (our largest freshwater gamefish), Rhode Island is known for its excellent and varied This high-quality guide is offered to you opportunities for freshwater fishing. It is also a by the Rhode Island Division of Fish and year-round pursuit, with fishing available in the Wildlife through its unique partnership with spring for opening day of trout season, excellent J.F. Griffin Publishing, LLC. fall fishing, and winter ice fishing. The Department’s hatchery program ensures that over 100 fishing areas are stocked with The revenue generated through ad sales brook, rainbow and brown trout several times a year to accommodate the growing demand significantly lowers production costs and by resident and non-resident anglers. For the uninitiated, we encourage you to fish with us on generates savings. These savings translate Free Fishing Days on May 6 and May 7 and try your luck catching one of the coveted Golden into additional funds for other important Rainbow Trout. I guarantee you will be hooked on fishing! agency programs. Recreational fishing is also important to our economy, contributing more than $130 mil- If you have any feedback or are inter- lion annually. There are an estimated 175,000 recreational anglers (age 16+) in Rhode Island, ested in advertising, please contact us at according to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service National Survey of Fishing, Hunting, and 413.884.1001 or at www.JFGriffin.com Wildlife-Associated Recreation. A special thanks to Rhode Island’s angling and boating community. This publication would not be possible without you. In fact, this is your publication, funded via the Federal On the cover: Aid in Sportfish Restoration (Wallop-Breaux Amendment) through contributions from an- Northern pike caught ice fishing glers and boaters on the sales of equipment, motorboat fuels, license sales and Trout Stamps. Rhode Island waters. As Director, I extend a sincere thank you to all the sportsmen and sportswomen who have Graphic Design: contributed to this valuable conservation program. Jon Gulley, Dane Fay, John Corey, We hope this guide enhances your fishing and boating experiences and that you feel en- couraged to get out there and enjoy Rhode Island’s picturesque fishing areas and the tran- Evelyn Haddad, Chris Sobolowski quility and connection to nature that fishing and boating provides. Whether you have been fishing all your life, getting back into the sport, or trying it for the first time, we guarantee you won’t be disappointed. Tight lines, everyone!
RHODE ISLAND FreshwaterFishing 2017-2018 REGULATION GUIDE
Janet Coit Director
Visit our website: www.dem.ri.gov
State of Rhode Island & Providence Plantations Department of Environmental Management • Division of Fish & Wildlife
“It is the policy of the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management to offer its services and accommodations to all orderly persons, and, as required, to all properly licensed persons, without regard to race, religion, color, This guide is also national origin, ancestry, sex, age, or disability.” If you believe that you have been discriminated against in any program, activity, facil- available online at ity, or if you desire further information, please write to the Office for Equal Opportu- nity, U.S. Department of the Interior. Office of the Secretary, Washington, D.C. 20240
2 2017-2018 Rhode Island2017-2018 Freshwater Rhode Fishing Island Guide Freshwater Fishing Guide License information
Fishing License Information 5. A Trout Conservation Stamp is NOT required of the following: a. Minors younger than fifteen (15) years of age. 1. A fishing license is required of any person 15 years of age or older b. Any resident over 65 years of age. wishing to catch or take fish in any freshwater stream or pond in the state (except as noted below). c. Any person with a 100% disability. 2. A fishing license can be obtained at any city or town clerk’s office or d. Landowners or members of their families when fishing from from authorized agents such as bait and tackle shops and some retail property on which they are actually domiciled. department stores. e. Any person possessing trout taken from a lake or pond which 3. RI fishing licenses are reciprocal with Connecticut only for Beach shares a border with a neighboring state. Pond, Killingly Pond, Hazard Pond, and Peck Pond, and with f. Any person possessing privately-owned trout caught in Massachusetts only for Wallum Lake. privately-owned ponds. 4. The fishing license must be worn so that it is visible and must be shown upon request. 5. The fishing license expires on the last day of February annually. Methods of Fishing 6. The fishing license will be revoked for violation of fishing laws. 1. Unless otherwise specified, only a rod and reel or other hand-held 7. A fishing license is not required of minors younger than fifteen (15) and hand-operated device shall be used to catch fish in the fresh years of age. waters of the state. At no time shall a person place, operate, or super- intend more than two (2) of these devices for the purpose of catching 8. A fishing license is not required of any blind person. fish, except as noted below, and no more than three (3) hooks may be 9. A fishing license is not required of landowners or for members of their attached to each device. families when fishing from property on which they are domiciled. 2. Suckers, fallfish, and carp may be taken by snares, spears, or bow 10. A free, special, permanent license may be obtained by any veteran and arrow. of the armed forces who currently has a 100% disability rating or by 3. For the purpose of fishing through the ice, up to five (5) lines with a sin- any individual who is 100% permanently disabled. gle hook on each, personally attended, and held by any device designed 11. A free, special, permanent license may be obtained by any resident for that purpose (tip-up), may be used. See Exception #3 for Beach over 65 years of age. Pond, and Exception #11 for Killingly and Hazard Pond, page 5. 4. Freshwater minnows may be taken for bait with minnow traps, dip License Type Fee nets, and seines not greater than four feet (4 ft.) deep by eight feet (8 ft.) long and having a square mesh size not larger than one-fourth Resident (or current member of the armed forces) $18.00 inch (1/4 in.) unless otherwise licensed by the DEM. This regulation Combination (Hunting & Fishing) $33.00 does not supercede current alewife/blueback herring regulations as detailed in the Diadromous Fisheries section found on page 12. Non-resident $35.00 See also page 5, Exception #13. Non-resident tourist (three (3) consecutive days) $16.00 Trout Conservation Stamp $5.50
Trout Conservation Stamp
1. A Trout Conservation Stamp is required of any person wishing to keep or possess a trout, salmon, or charr caught in Rhode Island waters or to fish in a “catch & release” or in a “fly fishing only” area. 2. A Trout Conservation Stamp can be obtained from any city or town clerk’s office or from authorized agents such as bait and tackle shops and some retail department stores. 3. The Trout Conservation Stamp must be worn so that it is visible and must be shown upon request. 4. The Trout Conservation Stamp expires on the last day of February annually.
FREE Fishing Days May 6th and 7th, 2017 Neither a Freshwater Fishing License nor a Trout Conservation Stamp will be required by residents or non-residents on the 6th and 7th of May 2017.
2017-2018 Rhode Island Freshwater Fishing Guide 3 General information Prohibited Activities:
1. Fishing in any freshwater stream or pond within this state without a 15. Tagging, branding, marking, or otherwise willfully mutilating any valid fishing license (except as noted on page 3). fish which is to be released alive into any freshwaters of the state except by special permit issued by the Division of Fish and Wildlife. 2. Fishing in any stream, designated trout stream or designated trout pond of the state, unless otherwise regulated, between midnight 16. It is prohibited that any person use foot gear with external felt soles or on last day of February to 6AM on the second Saturday of April, other natural or synthetic porous material capable of absorbing liquid annually. that is attached to the soles of wading foot gear in any freshwaters of the state. This shall include any waters shared with adjacent states in which 3. Possessing trout, salmon, or charr during the seasonal closure. any RI Fishing regulations apply. 4. Using corn for bait in any designated trout waters. 5. Chumming in any designated trout waters. 6. Snagging fish in fresh waters. Wheelchair Accessible Fishing 7. Using any substance injurious to fish life in any stream or freshwater pond within the state except by permit issued by the DEM. Areas in Rhode Island 8. Detonating any explosive within any stream or freshwater pond Carbuncle Pond - Coventry within the state. Gorton Pond - Warwick 9. Selling trout, largemouth or smallmouth bass, pickerel, northern pike, Atlantic salmon, American shad, or yellow perch taken from Lower Shannock Brook - Richmond any freshwater stream, river, or pond within the state. Silver Spring Lake - North Kingstown 10. Stocking any freshwater stream or pond, public or private, within Upper Roaring Brook - Exeter the state with ANY species of fish without having first obtained a permit from the DEM. For more information, call (401) 789-0281. Westerly Boat Ramp - Westerly 11. Releasing any live bait into the freshwaters of the state. Olney Pond - Lincoln 12. The use as bait of any variety of gold fishCarassius ( auratus) in the fresh waters of the State. 13. The importation, sale, or possession of any variety of non-native fish, including, but not limited to goldfish Carassius( auratus), green sun- fish Lepomis( cyanellus), or fathead minnows (Pimephales promelas) for use as bait in the fresh waters in the State. 14. Selling any live freshwater minnows for bait or possessing more than one hundred (100) live freshwater minnows without first having procured the appropriate license from the DEM.
Catch a Golden Trout… Get a Golden Pin!
RIDEM Division of Fish and Wildlife hatcheries will again be stocking the golden rainbow trout on our Free Fishing weekend, May 6th and 7th, 2017! If you catch a golden trout in any of the Rhode Island ponds throughout 2017, send in your pictures and receive a golden trout pin. Contact Jessica Pena at [email protected] or 401-539-0019 for more information. RIDEM Fish and Wildlife has previously stocked golden trout in the following ponds: Silver Spring Lake in North Kingstown, Meadow Brook Pond and Carolina Trout Pond in Richmond, Round Top Ponds and Peck Pond in Burrillville, Brickyard Pond in Barrington, Upper Mellville Pond in Portsmouth, Tiogue Lake in Coventry, and Browning Mill Pond in Exeter. Stay tuned for our 2017 stocking locations!
4 2017-2018 Rhode Island Freshwater Fishing Guide Seasons, Creel Limits, and Minimum Size Limits Fish Exceptions* Season Creel Limit** Minimum Size
2-5, 7-10 Apr. 8 - Nov. 30 5 None Trout 3-5, 7-10 Dec. 1 - Feb. 28 2 None
Atlantic Salmon CLOSED see page 12
Domestic (landlocked) Atlantic Salmon 1-3, 5, 7-10 Apr. 8 - Feb. 28 2 15"
Northern Pike 1 No Closed Season 2 24"
Chain Pickerel 1, 3, 5, 11 No Closed Season 5 14"
Largemouth & Smallmouth Bass 1, 3, 5, 6, 11 No Closed Season 5 12"
American Eel 1, 13 No Closed Season 25 9"
River Herring (Alewives, Blueback herring), Shad & Smelt CLOSED
All Other Freshwater Fish 3, 5, 11 No Closed Season None None
Striped Bass 12 No Closed Season 1 28"
** Creel Limit: Number of fish per person per day * Exceptions as listed below:
Exceptions 1. All lengths are measured from the tip of the snout to the tip of the tail. downstream of Potter Hill Dam. The daily creel and possession limit for domestic (landlocked) Atlantic salmon is two (2) fish (as part of 2. Open fishing season begins on all species of trout, salmon, charr at the daily trout limit). The minimum size limit for domestic (land- 6:00 AM on the second Saturday of April and closes at midnight on locked) Atlantic Salmon is fifteen (15) inches. the last day of February, annually. 9. The creel and possession limit for trout or charr taken in the Wood 3. Beach Pond, Exeter—Trout season will open on the second Saturday River between Route 165 and Barberville Dam at Arcadia Road shall of April at 6:00AM and close at midnight on the last day of February, be limited to two (2) fish from the second Saturday in May through annually. The daily creel and possession limits for black bass shall be the last day of February (taken singularly or in aggregate). five (5) fish and the minimum size limit shall be twelve (12) inches. In accordance with Connecticut Fishing Regulations, six (6) tip-ups 10. With the exception of designated ‘catch and release’ areas, all legally may be used while ice-fishing. The daily creel limit and possession of caught trout, salmon, or charr taken from the fresh waters of Rhode Walleye shall be two (2) fish and minimum size shall be eighteen (18) Island shall be immediately released alive into the waters from which inches. The daily creel limit for trout species (all species in aggregate) they were taken or shall be killed at once and become part of the shall be five (5) fish. All other RI size and catch limits apply. daily creel limit. 4. That portion of the Falls River, Exeter, from the bridge at Austin 11. Non-trout lakes (Killingly Pond and Hazard Pond) that share the Farm road downstream approximately 2 miles to the bridge off boundary with Connecticut—Six (6) tip-ups may be used with a Brook Trail is designated a ‘no kill’ or ‘catch and release’ area. Fishing single hook each while ice fishing. RI size and catch limits apply. is permitted only with artificial lures equipped with a single barb- 12. Striped bass, although a regulated marine species, are often caught in less hook or a single barbed hook which has been crimped. All fish some freshwater rivers of the state recreationally. In these instances, caught must be returned to the water immediately. The possession of please note that marine regulations will apply. any trout while fishing in this section of the river shall be prima facie evidence that said trout were taken in violation of this regulation. 13. The recreational creel or possession limit for American eel Anguilla( rostrata) shall be twenty-five (25) fish per day, per person, either sin- 5. Wallum Lake—Rhode Island regulations apply. gular or in aggregate, and the minimum size shall be nine (9) inches 6. The daily limit for largemouth and smallmouth bass is five (5) fish (see Exception 1). No person shall take an eel from the freshwaters (taken singularly or in aggregate). of the state unless in possession of a valid RI Freshwater Fishing License. There will be no closed season. No American eel may be 7. Trout Conservation Stamp—A Trout Conservation Stamp is commercially harvested from the freshwaters of the state and offered required of an angler who wishes to (a) keep or possess a trout, for sale without a valid commercial fishing license per RI Marine domestic (landlocked) salmon, or charr or (b) fish in a designated Fisheries (RIMF) regulations. If harvesting commercially with a ‘catch and release’ area or in a ‘fly fishing only’ area. valid commercial license from the freshwaters of the state, fishermen 8. Domestic (landlocked) Atlantic salmon may be taken from must adhere to regulations as set forth in RIMF regulations Part VII, any freshwaters of the state EXCEPT from the Pawcatuck River section 7.16.1.
2017-2018 Rhode Island Freshwater Fishing Guide 5 Article: brook trout in a changing world Brook Trout in a Changing World
Corey Pelletier, Fisheries Biologist Underwater photo of Rhode Island brook trout.
In modern day, many of our ecological com- are a baseline necessity. Along with cold water, All of these impacts individually and in combi- munities are struggling to survive and adapt to high levels of dissolved oxygen must be present. nation, present challenges to the survival of our changing environmental conditions. Occurring Typically wild brook trout are found in waters wild brook trout populations. from a local to global scale, a host of threats are that remain below 68 degrees Fahrenheit year Actions can be taken at all levels in order impacting unique and sensitive habitats, causing round. Generally, these trout are found in small to reduce impact to brook trout habitat and detrimental effects. Many questions in ecology to medium sized streams that contain signifi- preserve this relic species. Action begins with and biology are now pointed at determining and cant cover and structure provided by boulders, awareness at a broad scale. Protection of our measuring the impact of climate change. Devel- woody debris, and undercut banks. The ideal waterbodies and improving water quality is one opment also plays a compounding role in impact habitat tends to be small headwater streams of the most important ways to protect not only to the environment and ecological communities. that are fed by groundwater and natural springs brook trout but all other aquatic and terrestrial Furthermore, the question of how to approach where conditions are suitable for few other fish species. Simply maintaining a riparian zone by and mitigate the impacts created by a changing species. Brook trout act as an excellent indicator leaving trees and other vegetation along stream environment remains even more complex. species for stream quality due to their sensi- banks protects water quality by reducing erosion Climate change and development are as tivity to outside threats such as pollution and and sedimentation as well as provides shade to present in Rhode Island as in the rest of the sedimentation. the stream channel. Reduction of impervious nation. Both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems There are numerous factors that pose threats surfaces, such as paved driveways and parking have and continue to be impacted. Focusing to brook trout habitat. In the RIWAP, several lots, is imperative for maintaining brook trout on a single species that has an intrinsic value threats are identified which are known to cause habitat in order to reduce excess runoff and to both people and ecological communities in negative impact to these sensitive habitats. The increased potential for erosion and sedimen- the northeastern US, the eastern brook trout greatest threat identified in the RIWAP is listed tation. In areas of new development, actions (Salvelinus fontinalis) is at the forefront of impact as development and urban areas. Development including leaving a proper riparian zone and by climate change and development. As a native often increases stormwater runoff which acts as creating permeable roadways and parking areas species to the northeastern US, including Rhode a source of pollution, provides excess sediments may make the difference in the survival of a wild Island, the brook trout is a coldwater species into waterbodies and even increases water tem- brook trout population. Removal of dams and that requires high standard of water quality for perature. Dams remain high on the list of threats impassable culvert crossings is essential to cre- survival. In 2015, RIDEM’s Fish and Wildlife Di- by creating a barrier for fish movement as well ating connectivity between isolated populations. vision released an updated Wildlife Action Plan as increasing water temperature during summer Also, removal of dams often helps to reduce (RIWAP). This plan identifies a comprehensive months. Nutrient loading from agricultural run- downstream water temperatures during summer strategic plan for wildlife conservation and off, clearcutting of riparian zones along stream months when trout are most susceptible to species of greatest conservation need (SGCN) corridors, and sewage discharges into freshwater thermal stressors. As such a sensitive species to within the state. Brook trout are one of many are some of many issues impacting water quality impaired environmental conditions, brook trout freshwater species listed as a SGCN due to a necessary for trout survival. Climate change are an important indicator species to the rest of variety of threats to habitat. poses more of a long term impact to brook trout our aquatic systems which must be protected. Brook trout require a fairly specific set of and their native range. Globally, air tempera- In a changing world where the effects of water quality characteristics in order for sur- tures are increasing which have a gradual effect climate change are becoming ever so present, we vival. Most importantly, clean and cold water on both surface and groundwater temperatures. must take precautionary measures to preserve and protect our ecological communities and species diversity for generations to come.
6 Fishing Activities requiring a permit
Newly Revised: Fishing Activities Requiring a Permit HOPE VALLEY BAIT & TACKLE 1.16 Permits are required for organized fishing complete and submit the required information tournaments for state fishing and boating within five (5) days shall render the organiza- access areas and for the following private tion ineligible to conduct further organized access areas: Johnson’s Pond (Flat River Res- fishing events for one year from the said event. ervoir) in Coventry, and Waterman Reservoir Such revocation shall include any events for in Glocester. Permits are required for six (6) or which a permit was previously issued. more persons and/or three (3) or more boats. 1.16.3 Applicants requesting a permit for a Applications for the issuance of a permit must municipal or private ramp shall be responsible be submitted to the Division a minimum of to obtain additional permits for these areas, if three (3) weeks prior to the tournament. An Wide range of hunting and fishing supplies necessary. organization may cancel a permitted fishing Poles and bait for your next fishing trip activity without penalty as long as written 1.16.4 These regulations shall not be inter- We have bows and arrows in stock notice of cancellation is received at least three preted as superseding any special boat ramp or Guns and ammo in stock (3) weeks prior to the event. Failure to provide state management area regulations. RI Hunting and Fishing Licenses available timely written notice shall result in a one (1) 1.16.5 Permits along with lists of participants year revocation of an organization’s eligibility and boat registrations, shall be available 1150 Main Street, Wyoming, RI to receive a permit for any organized fishing during the tournament for law enforcement 401.539.2757 activity. Exceptions for unforeseen occur- purposes and must be clearly displayed in the rences (e.g. weather, natural disaster) will apply hopevalleybait.com windshield of the contact’s vehicle. at the discretion of the Division. The deci- sion of revocation shall rest entirely with the Division. Permit applications may be obtained by contacting RIDEM Division of Fish and Wildlife, 277 Great Neck Road, West Kingston, RI 02892, Tel. (401)789-7481. Applicants must Making Hunting & Fishing Dreams Come True complete all required information. The Divi- for YoungsTers, 21 & unDer, with sion reserves the right to limit the number of LiFe-THreaTening iLLnesses activities per location, per day, time period, or The Ethical Angler: Toll Free: 866-345-4455 deny a permit for reasons of overuse or conflict www.HuntofaLifetime.org with other activities. 1. Keeps only the fish he needs.
1.16.1 The applicant must indicate on the 2. Does not pollute, properly disposes application whether the fishing activity is a of trash or packs it back. ‘closed’ or an ‘open’ activity. A closed activity is an event having a fixed or restricted num- 3. Hones angling and boating skills. ber of participants. An open fishing activity is an event having an unrestricted number of 4. Observes angling and boating Foreclosed Land participants. safety regulations. Deeply Discounted 1.16.1.1 If the tournament is closed, the num- Recreational and Residential land located in ber of boats, vehicles, and participants must be 5. Respects other anglers’ rights. FL, NC, TX, AR, NY, PA, WA, AZ, NV entered on the application. The permit must be retained on site by the sponsor along with 6. Respects property owners’ rights. the list of participants and boat registration 888-758-5687 numbers. 7. Passes on knowledge and angling www.dfcland.com skills to friends and family. 1.16.2.2 If the tournament is open, the names of all participants and registration numbers of 8. Supports local conservation efforts. each boat on the day of the tournament must be made available to RIDEM Division of Law 9. Does not release live bait, Enforcement. An estimated count of all partic- non-native plants, fish or inverte- ipants, vehicles and boats shall be forwarded brates, into RI waters. It’s against to the Division at least five (5) days prior to the the law. start of the tournament. 1.16.2.3 Regardless if a fishing tournament 10. Does not leave offal from cleaning is ‘closed’ or open’, the organization must fish at fishing sites, on land or in provide a report to the Division within five the water; instead, packs it back or (5) days of the termination of the tournament buries it out of sight. which includes: the number of hours fished, the number of boats, numbers of participants, 11. Promotes the sport of angling. and, as applicable, the total number of large- mouth bass and smallmouth bass caught as 12. Does not transport any invasive well as the total weight of all largemouth bass plant, fish, or invertebrate from one and all smallmouth bass processed at weigh-in. water body to another. This report may be sent as a letter to RIDEM Division of Fish and Wildlife or by completing the Bass tournament Count Form. Failure to 7 General information Fish Consumption Advisory Freshwater Fishing Area Restrictions
Since 1986, the FDA has issued warnings about mercury levels in various 1. FLY FISHING ONLY: The following waters are restricted to the use fish including freshwater species. The RI DEM and Department of of artificial flies, a conventional fly rod, and a single action reel: Deep Health wants our anglers to be familiar with the following information: Pond (Arcadia), Exeter; A.L. Mowry, Smithfield; Upper Rochambeau Pond, Lincoln. Fish is Good 2. CHILDREN ONLY: The following waters are restricted to fishing • Fish is a good source of protein. by persons fourteen (14) years of age and younger: Lloyd Kenney • Fish has many vitamins and minerals. Pond, Hopkinton; *Slater Park Pond, Pawtucket; Lapham Pond, • Fish is low in fat. Burrillville; Silvy’s Pond, Cumberland; *Ponderosa Park Pond, Little • Fish can be part of a healthy diet, A healthy diet helps children grow Compton; Seidel’s Pond, Cranston; *Cass Pond, Woonsocket; Frosty and develop properly. Hollow Pond, Exeter; Geneva Brook and Pond, N. Providence. Mercury is Bad Please note the following: • Mercury is a type of metal found in nature. It is used in thermometers, * Cass, Slater Park, and Ponderosa Park Ponds are restricted only for the batteries, lamps, and other products. Sometimes mercury gets into first two days of the season, the 8th & 9th of April 2017, FOR CHIL- ponds, lakes, rivers, soil, and air through pollution. DREN ONLY. • When mercury pollutes the water, it can get into the fish where they live. If you eat fish with mercury, it can harm your baby when you are pregnant or breast feeding. • Babies born to mothers who have a lot of mercury in their bodies may develop more slowly and have problems learning. Young Children can also be harmed by mercury. • High levels of mercury in the body can cause harm to an adult’s kidneys and brain. • You cannot see, taste, or smell mercury in fish. Mercury cannot be cut away, cleaned or cooked out of fish. The best way to avoid mercury is to know which fish to choose and how much to eat. Advice for those who fish: • Choose stocked trout to eat. See page 9 for trout stocking locations. • Vary where and what types of fish you eat. • Eat smaller fish (in accordance with RIDEM size limits). • Avoid fish with the most mercury: bass, pike, and pickerel. • Limit meals of black crappie and eel to one meal per month. • Do not fish in private ponds, with no public access and those that are not stocked by the state. • Trout from private vendors stocked into private ponds may be eaten. • Do not eat any fish from the following ponds (with the exception of trout): Yawgoog Pond, Windcheck Pond, Meadowbrook Pond, Quid- nick Reservoir, and the lower Woonasquatucket. • Catch and release fishing is recommended in Mashapaug Pond and the Woonasquatucket River along with other urban ponds and rivers. • Pregnant women and young children should limit their fish intake to include those fish that have tested low in mercury: stocked trout, salmon, light tuna, shrimp, Pollock and catfish. For more information: Natural Shorelines Visit http://www.health.ri.gov/healthrisks/poisoning/mercury/about/ fish/ or call the Health Hotline at 1-800-942-7434. are Good for Fishing By keeping shorelines natural, you can help protect water quality and improve fish habitat. A shoreline without trees and shrubs can get washed away, making the water muddy and unsuitable for fish. If you live near a lake or a river, plant a buffer strip along the water’s edge using trees, shrubs, wild- flowers or other native plants. Trees and other vegetation filter pollution and provide shade, shelter, habitat, and food critical for bass, trout, and other fish to thrive and reproduce. Keep your favorite fishing spots well vegetated! For more tips and information, visit http://water.epa.gov/type/lakes/index.cfm
8 2017-2018 Rhode Island Freshwater Fishing Guide Is that algal bloom on my favorite pond harmful? RIDEM and RI Department of Health are working together to keep your fishing experience safe. During late summer and early fall, when the water levels are low and temperatures are high, scientists sample bodies of water for blue-green algae (also known as Cyanobacteria) toxins. If toxin levels are too high, warnings are issued and signs are posted to refrain from recreational activities on that particular body of water. Here is a little more information about Cyanobacteria:
What is Cyanobacteria? or livestock that ingest the Cyanobacteria toxins can experience sickness, paralysis and even death. Neurotoxicity in animals is Cyanobacteria is a blue-green algae that occurs naturally in characterized by salivation, weakness, staggering, difficulty freshwater systems. High temperatures and excess sunlight breathing, and convulsions. can lead to algal ‘blooms’ which have the potential to produce toxins that are harmful to both human and animals. The toxins What can you do to avoid Cyanobacteria toxins? are released when the algae begin to die off or are ingested. Adhere to all posted signs. Do not drink, swim, or fish in affect- How do you identify a blue-green algal bloom? ed water bodies. Avoid contact with water that is discolored or has scum on the surface. Do not drink untreated water, whether Blooms generally occur in late summer or early fall when the algae blooms are present or not. water level is low and water temperature is high. There are no visual signs that a blue-green algae bloom is producing the What does the state do to reduce human/pet ex- harmful toxins; however, identifying an algae bloom may help posure to the cyanobacteria toxins? you avoid the chance of exposure. Blue-green algae blooms are normally bright green or blue green in color, but can also be Not all species of blue-green algae produce toxins and the brown, red or purple. Water may appear cloudy and may pro- blue-green algae that can produce the toxins may not. Toxins duce an odor. The color of the algal bloom is a clue; however, can be detected through laboratory tests. Water testing is confirmation of blue-green algae can only be identified using a conducted throughout the summer and results are reported to microscope. Water samples should be tested for toxin presence. RI Department of Health and RIDEM. If toxins are found, a press release is issued and signage is posted at the pond. RIDEM will What are the health risks? not stock affected ponds with trout. Humans who come in contact with the blue-green algae toxins Where can I get more information? can develop rashes, blisters, hives, and nose and eye irritation. If swallowed, humans may experience diarrhea, vomiting, or neu- For more information, visit http://www.health.state.ri.us/health- rotoxicity (numb lips, tingling fingers and toes, dizziness). Pets risks/harmfulalgaeblooms/.
Largemouth Bass Virus RIDEM, in collaboration with the US Environmental Protection Agency and the US Fish and Wildlife Service, first began testing bass from Rhode Island lakes and ponds in 2006 for Largemouth Bass Virus (LMBV). To date, only two sites in Rhode Island have tested positive for LMBV: Olney Pond in Lincoln Woods State Park (2011) and Echo Lake in Pascoag (2014). The virus itself is specific to bass and does not impact any other species of fish. Com- mon symptoms of the virus include hyper-buoyancy, spiral swimming and lethargy, which are attributed to damage to the swim bladder. Infected fish may not exhibit any signs of the virus until it is activated by stressful environmental conditions such as high water temperatures, low oxygen levels, droughts, secondary injuries, or bacterial in- fections. These are conditions that could trigger LMBV and potentially cause fish kills. While fish health biologists have indicated that LMBV is a naturally-occurring fish virus that does not pose a human health risk for people who eat or handle infected fish, all freshwater fish should be thoroughly cooked before being consumed. DEM’s Division of Fish and Wildlife advises anglers to minimize the spread of LMBV by not transplanting bass from one water body to another*; draining, cleaning and drying boats, motors and fishing gear between each use; not releasing bait fish into any water body*; minimizing the stress to bass caught and released as much as possible during periods of high water temperatures; and reporting all fish kills to the Department at (401) 222-3070. DEM and its federal partners will continue to test Rhode Island lakes and ponds for LMBV. *As a reminder, transplanting any fish species from one body of water to another or releasing bait fish is prohibited.
2017-2018 Rhode Island Freshwater Fishing Guide 9 Trout waters Designated Trout Waters
Name Location Name Location 2 Abbots Run Brook Cumberland Melville Ponds Portsmouth Adamsville Brook & Pond Tiverton & Little Compton Memorial Park Pond Lincoln Meshanticut Brook Cranston Aldrich Brook (Butterfly Pond) Lincoln Moosup River 2 Coventry Alton Pond 2 Richmond & Hopkinton Mowry, A.L. Pond 1 2 Smithfield Ashaway River Hopkinton Olney Pond 4 Lincoln Woods Park, Lincoln Ashville Pond 2 Hopkinton Parris Brook 2 Exeter Barber Pond South Kingstown Hopkinton, Richmond, Charles- Pawcatuck River 4 Beach Pond 2 Exeter town, Westerly 2 Beaver River 2 Richmond Pawtuxet River (north branch) Scituate & Cranston Big River 2 West Greenwich Pawtuxet River (south branch) Coventry & West Warwick Peck Pond 2 Burrillville Blackstone River Cumberland & Lincoln Peeptoad Brook Glocester Branch River Burrillville Ponaganset River 2 Foster Brandy Brook Glocester Ponderosa Park Pond 3 Little Compton Breakheart Brook 2 Exeter Roaring Brook & Ponds 4 Exeter Breakheart Pond 2 Exeter & West Greenwich Round Top Brook 2 Burrillville Brickyard Pond Barrington Round Top Ponds 2 Burrillville Browning Mill Pond Exeter Saint Mary’s Pond Portsmouth Brushy Brook Hopkinton Saugatucket River South Kingstown Bucks Horn Brook Coventry Seidel’s Pond 3 Cranston California Jim’s South Kingstown Shippee Saw Mill Pond 2 Foster Carbuncle Pond 4 Coventry Silver Spring Lake 4 North Kingstown Carolina Trout Pond 2 Richmond Silvy’s Brook 2 Cumberland Cass Pond 3 Woonsocket Silvy’s Pond 2, 3 Cumberland Chepachet River Glocester & Burrillville Simmons Mill Pond 2 Little Compton Chickasheen Brook 2 South Kingstown Slater Park Pond 3 Pawtucket Clear River Burrillville Spring Grove Pond Glocester Deep Pond (Arcadia) 1, 2 Exeter Stafford Pond2 Tiverton Dexter Pond Scituate Sylvester’s Pond Woonsocket 2 Dolly Cole Brook Foster Tarbox Pond West Greenwich Dundery Brook (including Tarkiln Pond Burrillville & North Smithfield Little Compton Wigwam Pond) Ten Mile River East Providence Eight Rod Farm Pond Tiverton Tiogue Lake Coventry Falls River 2 Exeter & West Greenwich Tiverton Trout Pond 2 Tiverton Flat River 2 Exeter Tucker Pond 2 South Kingstown Foster Green Acres Pond Foster Upper Rochambeau Pond 1 Lincoln Frenchtown Park Pond East Greenwich Wallum Lake Burrillville Frosty Hollow Pond 2, 3 Exeter Watchaug Pond 2 Charlestown Geneva Brook & Pond 3 North Providence Willett Pond East Providence Harris River Woonsocket Winsor Brook Foster Hopkins Mill Pond 2 Foster Wood River 2 Exeter, Hopkinton & Richmond Hunt River E. Greenwich & N. Kingstown Woonasquatucket River Smithfield J.L. Curran Reservoir 2 Cranston Wyoming Pond 2 Hopkinton & Richmond Lapham Pond 3 Burrillville All designated trout waters are stocked prior to the opening day of trout season. Numbers following area names refer to the following: Lloyd Kenney Pond 3 Hopkinton 1 Fly fishing only. Log House Brook Hopkinton 2 State-owned or controlled public access. Meadow Brook 2 Richmond 3 Minors fourteen (14) years of age and younger, only. For more detailed in- Meadow Brook Pond 2 Richmond formation, please refer to page 8 under Freshwater Fishing Area Restrictions. 4 Wheelchair accessible. See page 4 for more information.
10 2017-2018 Rhode Island Freshwater Fishing Guide Article: meet the class of 2018 Meet the Class of 2018
Located down a rural road in North Kingstown, thousands of tiny brook trout fry fight for the food that periodically falls from the automatic feeders. For the next 15 months, the young fry will be continuously fed, counted and sorted by size to ensure their health while increasing their size. Some will even travel to other State hatcheries including Perryville Trout Hatchery in South Kingstown and Carolina Trout Hatchery in Richmond, to grow out to be adults. Believe it or not, the trout will have developed from eggs to one pound adults in only 18 months and ready to be stocked into Rhode Island’s ponds, lakes, and streams for opening day. With that said, RIDEM Division of Fish and Wildlife proudly presents the Class of 2018!
Want to know what is going on with the Division of Fish and Wildlife? Here are two great ways:
1. Sign up for Wild Rhode Island, a quarterly RIDEM Division of Fish and Wildlife newsletter. Written by DEM biologists, this full color publi- cation is replete with useful information about on-going biological studies, native Rhode Island species, Division events, and much more. There is even something for the kids in every issue! The newsletter is available online or delivered to your mailbox. For more information or to be added to our mailing/e-mail list, contact Sarah Riley at 401-789-0281 or at sarah.riley@ dem.ri.gov. 2. Look for us on Facebook: Rhode Island Fish and Wildlife Outdoor Education, @rioutdooreducation. The page connects you to up-to-date information about our Aquatic Resource Education and Hunter Safety Education programs, volunteer opportunities and much more. https:// www.facebook.com/rioutdooreducation/
2017-2018 Rhode Island Freshwater Fishing Guide 11 General information
in possession of a valid RI Freshwater Fishing License. No American Diadromous Fish Regulations eel may be commercially harvested from the freshwaters of the state and offered for sale without a valid commercial license per RI Marine 1. No person shall land, catch, take or attempt to catch or take any river Fisheries (RIMF) regulations. If harvesting commercially with a valid herring, which includes alewives, Alosa pseudoharengus or blueback commercial fishing license from the freshwater of the state, fishermen herring, Alosa aestivalis, from any freshwater or marine waters of must adhere to regulations as set forth in RIMF regulations Part VII the state of Rhode Island. Possession of any alewives or blueback (Minimum Sizes of Fish/Shellfish), section 7.16.1. herring, at any time, is prohibited and shall be evidence, prima facie, that said herring was taken in violation of this regulation. Fish Ladders: 2. No person shall erect any artificial obstruction to fish passage in any 1. Trespass within or any obstruction of the entrance or exit of any fish stream or in any way alter the natural stream bottom to hinder the ladder in the state is prohibited. passage of fish. 2. For the purpose of regulating diadromous fishes, all fish ladders owned and operated by the state will be set aside as fish cultivation Shad: facilities pursuant to Chapters 20-12-1 and 20-12-5 of the General No person shall take any American shad (Alosa sapidissima) from the Laws of the State of Rhode Island. fresh waters of the state or possess any American shad taken from the 3. No person shall catch or attempt to catch any fish within one-half freshwaters of the state. mile (1/2 mile) from the outlet of any fish ladder unless otherwise Salmon: permitted. The areas below each fish ladder where fishing will be permitted shall be designated with an official boundary marker or No person shall take any Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) from the informational sign. Pawcatuck River downstream of the Potter Hill Dam. Smelt: No person shall take any smelt (Osmerus mordax) by any means from any stream or river system in the state. Rhode Island American Eel: The creel or possession limit for American eel Anguilla( rostrata) shall be Environmental Police twenty-five (25) fish per day, per person, either singular or in aggregate, The mission of the Environmental Police is to protect our nat- and the minimum size shall be nine (9) inches from tip of snout to tip of ural resources and ensure compliance with all environmental tail. No person shall take an eel from the freshwaters of the state unless conservation laws through law enforcement and education. The history of the Environmental Police dates back to 1842 when the first game wardens were appointed to the Com- mission of Shellfisheries. Today, Rhode Island’s Environmental Police Officers are sworn law enforcement officers who are responsible for patrolling and enforcing all laws, rules and regulations per- taining to the state’s fish, wildlife, boating safety and marine resources as well as all criminal and motor vehicle laws within the state parks and management areas. Officers patrol over 60,000 acres of state land, 92 salt and freshwater boat launching and fishing areas, 300 miles of rivers and streams, and 417 miles of coastline. They are also cross-deputized with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and the National Marine Fish- eries Service. During their patrols, they educate the public on Women’s Fly Fishing Day 2016. Photo courtesy of Suzanne Buchanan the protection of our natural resources and provide safety for the public while enjoying Rhode Island’s outdoors. To report emergencies or violations, call (401) 222-3070, 24hr line. Protect Our Native Species from Disease and Invansives IT IS AGAINST THE LAW TO TAKE FISH OF ANY SPECIES FROM ANY BODY OF WATER AND STOCK IT IN RHODE ISLAND WATERS! By taking fish from either in-state or out-of-state water bodies and placing it in another body of water in RI, you risk introducing disease and parasites to native fish. You also risk introducing invasive species to that waterway. Invasive spe- cies overtake the native species and significantly alter stream ecology. For more information or for stocking permits, please call (401) 789-7481.
12 2017-2018 Rhode Island Freshwater Fishing Guide Saltwater/Freshwater Boundaries
River Town Interface Pawcatuck River Westerly Bridge crossing US Route 1 Mastuxet Brook Westerly Point at which Brook empties into Mastuxet Cove King Tom / Ninigret Ponds Charlestown Spillway at the South end of King Tom Pond Factory Pond Outlet South Kingstown Seaward opening of culvert under Teal Road Bridge on Moonstone Beach Road crossing west neck of Mill Pond Outlet to Cards Pond South Kingstown Cards Pond Smelt Brook South Kingstown Bridge closest to the outlet into Point Judith Pond Saugatucket River South Kingstown Downstream side of the Main Street Bridge in Wakefield Point at which brook empties into the Pettaquamscutt Gilbert Stuart Brook North Kingstown (Narrow) River Wesquage Pond Narragansett Culvert at the outlet to Bonnet Shores Beach Annaquatucket River North Kingstown Point at which river empties into Bissel Cove Cocumcussoc Brook North Kingstown Bottom of the first riffle upstream of Wickford Cove Potowomut River North Kingstown/ East Greenwich Forge Road spillway Maskerchugg River East Greenwich Boston Post Road (US Route 1) spillway Gorton Pond Outlet Warwick West of the Amtrak Railroad Bridge Tuscatucket Brook Warwick Downstream side of the West Shore Road Bridge Old Mill Creek Warwick Entirely tidal Warner Brook Warwick Draper Avenue Bridge Buckeye Brook Warwick Point at which the stream empties into Narragansett Bay Lockwood Brook Warwick Downstream side of West Shore Road Bridge Downstream side of the Warwick Avenue (RI Route 117A) Spring Green Pond Outlet Warwick Bridge Pawtuxet River Warwick/ Providence Narragansett Parkway spillway Woonasquatucket River Providence Downstream side of US Route 1N Bridge Moshassuck River Providence Point of confluence with the Woonasquatucket River Blackstone/Seekonk River Pawtucket Main Street spillway Ten Mile River East Providence Omega Pond spillway Annawomscutt Brook Barrington Pilling Chain Company spillway on Bay Spring Avenue Mussachuck Creek Barrington Downstream side of the Washington Road Bridge Runnins River East Providence/ Seekonk, MA Downstream side of Mink Street (RI 114A) Bridge Kickamuit River Warren Warren Reservoir spillway Sin and Flesh Brook Tiverton Downstream side of the Highland Avenue Bridge Nonquit Pond Tiverton Bridge at Pond Bridge Road Downstream side of the West Main Road (RI Route 77) Pachet Brook Tiverton Bridge Dundery Brook Little Compton Downstream side of Swamp Road Bridge Cold Brook Little Compton Point at which the brook empties into Quicksand Pond Maidford River Middletown Downstream side of Paradise Avenue Bridge Goose Neck Cove Newport Entirely tidal Lily Pond Newport Outlet Almy Pond Newport Outlet Prince Pond (Tiffany Pond) Barrington Point at which the stream enters the Barrington River.
2017-2018 Rhode Island Freshwater Fishing Guide 13 Article: history of the northern pike program
HISTORY OF Rhode Island’s Northern Pike Program Phillip Edwards, Supervising Biologist - Freshwater and Diadromous Fisheries
Northern Pike (Esox Lucius) were first intro- (6 to 8 inches). During this time frame, finger- In 2014, for the first time since the USFWS duced to Rhode Island waters in the 1960’s. ling pike were stocked annually into Chapman program ended in 1992, RIDFW applied for a Periodically, since then, RIDEM Division of Pond, Johnson Pond, Waterman Reservoir, USFWS Sports Fish Restoration grant, titled Fish and Wildlife has stocked selected lakes Worden Pond, and Stump Reservoir. The Northern Pike Management. The objectives of and ponds with northern pike at various life project ended in 1992. The pike program was the new pike project are to: stages (fry, fingerlings, or sub-adults). Between revived in 2000 when the five previously stock 1. maintain a northern pike fishery in 1980 and 1992, Rhode Island Division of Fish ponds were reactivated and stocked annually selected RI ponds and lakes by developing a and Wildlife (RIDFW) partnered with USFWS with eight to twelve inch sub-adults from out- long term annual stocking and monitoring Sports Fish Restoration Program and raised of-state sources. These stocking efforts were program; pike at the Arcadia Warm Water Hatchery for discontinued in 2007 due to the cost of raising 2. evaluate stocking success and popula- stocking into RI systems. Eggs were collected sub-adult pike and transportation issues; tion sizes by monitoring stocked systems via and fry were raised at the hatchery. Hatchery therefore, the pike program remained dormant electrofishing and net surveys and through ponds and Burlingame Marsh were utilized as until 2014. the implementation and analysis of angler nursery areas as the fry developed to fingerlings survey cards.
Sub-adult northern pike being released into a Rhode Island system.
Northern pike are sampled electro-fishing and released.
14 To accomplish the Northern Pike Management objectives, the project currently acquires eggs, fry and fingerlings from out-of-state sources as they become available, and collects adult broodstock pike from the previously stocked RI ponds. In early spring, fyke nets are set and checked daily. Once adult pike are collected and transported to Arcadia Hatchery, they are spawned and the eggs collected. The spawned adults are measured, weighed and scales are sampled to determined age and then released. The pike fry are fed brine shrimp and shiners and raised to fingerling size (6 to 8 inches) in the rearing ponds. Each fall the rearing ponds are drained and the juvenile pike are collected Northern pike underwater and stocked into selected RI systems. Northern Pike on a measuring board. Pike populations in the stocked systems are monitored by various methods including electrofishing and net surveys. Catch per unit effort (CPUE), age data and length-frequency spinner baits, soft plastics and live baits are Fishing for northern pike in RI is open year distributions can be used to assess current pike popular open water fishing techniques. Pike round with a 2 fish daily limit and 24 inch min- stock sizes and to evaluate stocking success. In are large aggressive carnivores that feed on imum size. RIDFW plans to continue stock- addition, RIDFW plans to implement the use of a variety of fish, small mammals and young ing and monitoring pike in Chapman Pond, volunteer angler survey cards to obtain data on waterfowl. Life expectancy in RI waters is Johnson Pond, Waterman Reservoir, Worden ice fishing catch and effort for northern pike. thought to be around 15 years. Pike can be Pond, and Stump Reservoir to enhance fishing Northern Pike are not believed to naturally distinguished from chain pickerel by the lack and to provide anglers the opportunity to catch spawn in RI waters but have become a popular of scales on the lower half of the gill cover. The a trophy fish in Rhode Island. freshwater fish species in RI, targeted year chain pickerel’s gill covers are fully scaled. The 1 round by anglers both through the ice and Rhode Island state record pike is 47- ⁄2 inches on open water. The use of ice fishing tilts and in length and weighed 35 pounds. Pike over ten jigging rods with live bait is commonly used pounds are frequently reported from the five during the winter months while spoons, bright stocked ponds.
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RHODE ISLAND’S Fly Fish RI with the Aquatic Resource Education (ARE) Program Scott Travers, Technical Staff Assistant - ARE Program - RIDEM Fish and Wildlife
The State of Rhode Island is a fantastic place for seeming complexity of fly fishing has kept many fly fishing, It can be a very rewarding experi- the outdoor enthusiast, especially if the outdoors- anglers from even attempting the sport. ence. With a little information and plenty of man or woman is an angler. Whether you are Unbeknownst to the average angler, the fly practice anyone can learn the art of fly fishing. surf casting off the Charlestown Breachway, troll- fishing process may be as simple, or as involved, So, are you ready to begin fly fishing? For ing the Sakonnet River, or bait casting in Peck’s as you make it. Some fly anglers enjoy stopping over 20 years, the Division of Fish and Wild- Pond, there are a tremendous variety of fishing by the local fly shop, buy a few flies with a little life’s Aquatic Resource Education (ARE) pro- opportunities for both fresh and salt water guidance by other locals, and then hitting the gram has offered both fresh and salt water fly anglers. Whether you are a freshwater angler, streamside with some new flies and the latest fishing and fly tying opportunities throughout saltwater angler, or both, might I suggest upping available inside knowledge at to what the fish the state, with the dedicated help of volun- your game with a little fly fishing this year? are hitting on. Others enjoy heading straight teers from Northern and Southern RI Trout Many anglers have tried or at least heard of fly to the water early, taking their time observing Unlimited Chapters, United Fly Tyers, Rhody fishing; however, if you look at the entire angling nature, identifying the macroinvertebrate life Fly Rodders, Rhode Island Saltwater Anglers community, only a fraction actually participate that is present, maybe identifying a hatch that is Association, Narragansett Surf Casters, Wood in fly fishing. Unlike other forms of fishing, fly happening, selecting the appropriate fly, casting River Fly Fishing and many others. Recent- fishing involves learning to cast a lightweight to the right location, and stripping the line to ly, however, those opportunities have been fly, using the weight of the fly line itself to send make that fly come to life enough to fool that expanded and there is something available the fly to the desired location in the water. The fish of a life time. Personally, I enjoy creating for novice, intermediate and experienced fly angler then must learn how to retrieve - or strip - various fly patterns using basic items (hooks, fishing anglers. These programs include: the line in so that the fly gives a lifelike appear- thread, fur, feathers, etc.) then selecting that Community Fly Tying/Fly Fishing: Through- ance to the fish, set the hook properly when the certain one out of the variety I have made, and out the spring and summer months various fish strikes, and bring the fish to the net. The catching fish. Anyway you choose to practice
The Fly Fishing Express 2016. Photo courtesy of Kimberly Sullivan
16 2017-2018 Rhode Island Freshwater Fishing Guide community centers and libraries will be holding fly tying classes one night per week for a series of 3-4 weeks. Participants will tie their own flies which will then be used at a private fishing event to be held later in year. Libraries and com- munity centers who participated in the program last year include Lincoln, North Smithfield, Hopkinton, Middletown, Portsmouth, and the Riverside Sportsman’s Club in East Providence. This year we hope to expand the program to include even more communities. Family Fly Fishing and Women’s Fly Fish- ing Days: Offered in the spring, both of these days are sponsored by both Northern It’s never too early to learn the art and science of fly fishing. Photo courtesy of Ed Lombardo. and Southern Trout Unlimited Chapters, Wood River Fly Fishers and United Fly Tyers. Both are designed to offer a relaxed learning Kid’s Day on the Blackstone: Also in the fall While dates are not set for the various pro- environment at the Carolina Trout Hatchery, the ARE program and the Blackstone Heritage grams, updated information on dates, loca- the oldest continuously running hatchery Corridor along with several volunteer orga- tions, and other information can be located on country. Participants will learn how to tie flies, nizations will be hosting a separate youth fly the RI DEM website. Persons seeking addi- cast with a fly line, and catch fish at a stocked fishing event on the Blackstone River. Staff and tional information may contact Scott Travers at pond that is not normally open to the public. volunteers will be on hand to help participants [email protected]. Fly rods are provided by the ARE program; tie flies, cast lines, and catch fish. however, participants may use their own if The Aquatic Resource Introduction to Saltwater Fly Fishing: Mid- they choose. The event is free and registration Education (ARE) Program: spring, the ARE program will host their annual is required. In 1986, the Division of Fish and Wildlife ‘Introduction to Saltwater Fly Fishing’ along introduced the Aquatic Resource Education Cinder Worm Workshop: Also offered in the the Narrow River with volunteers from various program to Rhode Islanders. Funded through spring USF&W, RIDEM, and several volunteer fishing organizations. The daylong workshop the US Fish and Wildlife Service’s Sport Fish organizations will be conducting a salt water begins with learning the basics of fly fishing Restoration Program and supported by the fly fishing program at the Kettle Pond Visitor and fly tying and concludes with fishing the Wallop-Breaux Amendment of 1984, the Center at Ninigret. If you are a salt water angler stocked pond. All of the materials and equip- program was designed to “enhance the public’s and/or want to try your hand at salt water ment are provided by the Aquatic Resource understanding of aquatic resources and sport fly fishing, this annual event is a tremendous Education program. Participants are asked to fishing, and to promote the development of opportunity. Participants will learn how to bring waders, registration is required and a responsible attitudes and ethics toward the tie flies that imitate the cinder worm, which small lunch fee applies. aquatic environment.” Over the past 30 years, hatches in the mud at Ninigret during only one Fly Fishing Express: Do you have some fly RI’s Aquatic Resource Education Program season. After a few sessions learning about the fishing experience? This unique saltwater safari (ARE) has evolved to provide Rhode Islanders cinder worm and tying several flies, partici- experience invites anglers aboard the Old Col- with a chance to become stewards of their pants are welcomed to try their flies alongside ony Train in Middletown to fish various remote waterways through a variety of teacher training their instructors in the water at Ninigret. areas around Aquidneck Island. Equipment workshops, fishing programs, ecology, conser- Waders are provided by Both USF&W and the and instructors are on hand to hone your fly vation, and aquaculture programs. ARE program, and fly rods are provided by the fishing skills. Participants are asked to bring ARE program; however, participants may use For more information about the various edu- waders, registration is required and a small their own gear if they choose. cational opportunities available through the lunch fee applies. Aquatic Resource Education program, please Introduction to Freshwater Fly Fishing: Fall Fly Tying: If you like to tie flies, whether a contact Kimberly Sullivan, ARE Coordinator, Mid-spring, the ARE program will host their beginner or an intermediate tyer, this six week at (401) 539-0019 or kimberly.sullivan@dem. annual ‘Introduction to Freshwater Fly Fishing’ workshop is for you. Volunteers from various ri.gov. For upcoming ARE events, visit www. at Addieville East Farm with volunteers from fishing groups will offer their expertise on dem.ri.gov/programs/bnatres/fishwild/fwev- various fishing organizations. The daylong tying both freshwater and saltwater flies. Regis- ents.htm. We can also be found on Facebook: workshop begins with learning the basics of tration is required and a workshop fee applies. RI Fish and Wildlife Outdoor Education. fly fishing and fly tying and concludes with fishing the stocked pond. All of the materials and equipment are provided by the Aquatic Resource Education program. Registration is required and a small lunch fee applies. Kid’s Fly Fishing Day: In the fall, the ARE Fluorescent Orange Requirement program will offer a youth fly fishing event at All users of State Management Areas are required to wear 200 square inches of solid the Caroline Trout Hatchery. Sponsored by daylight flourescent orange, worn above the waist and visible in all directions from the Wood River Fly Fishing, Northern and South- second Saturday in September to the last day of February and the third Saturday in ern Trout Unlimited Chapters, and United Fly April to the last day of May annually, and during established mourning dove season and Tyers, the program is geared toward young wild turkey season. 500 square inches is required by all users of management areas and adults between the ages of 10 and 17. Staff and undeveloped state parks during all portions of shotgun deer seasons. Flourescent cam- volunteers will be on hand to help participants ouflage does not meet these requirements. The hunter orange must be worn above the tie flies, cast lines, and catch fish in the stocked waist and be visible in all directions. Examples are a hat that covers 200 square inches or pond at the Carolina Trout Hatchery. The ARE a combination of a hat and vest covering 500 square inches. program will provide fly rods however partici- pants may use their own if they choose. 2017-2018 Rhode Island Freshwater Fishing Guide 17 Boating Regulation guidelines General Boating Regulation Guidelines
The following is a brief summary of Rhode Island’s boating regula- tions. For detailed information, please refer to Division of Enforce- ment’s The Handbook of RI Boating Laws and Regulations, Title 46 of the General Laws of the State of Rhode Island or contact the Division of Enforcement. 1. DEM Conservation and Boating Safety Officers, harbormasters, and police officers have authority to enforce state laws and regulations on all state tidal and non-tidal waters. 2. It shall be a misdemeanor for any person operating a vessel on Rhode Island waters to refuse to stop or move on the oral command of a DEM Conservation or Boating Safety Officer, a harbormaster, or a police officer. 3. Every motorboat operating on the waters of the state must be num- bered in accordance with the laws and regulations of this state, with applicable federal law, or with an approved numbering system of another state. The number must be prominently displayed on each side of the bow of the boat. 4. Required Safety Equipment: a. Personal Flotation Devices (PFD’s) - All vessels must have at least one approved type I,II,III, or V PFD for each person on board. For vessels 16 feet long or longer, one additional, throw able type IV PFD is required. b. Fire Extinguishers -All mechanically-propelled vessels except those that are less than 26 feet long and powered by outboard motors, must carry one B-I USCG-approved fire extinguisher. Motorboats 26 feet to 40 feet in length and longer must carry either two (2) B-I USCG-approved fire extinguishers or one B-II extinguisher. Vessels 40 feet to 65 feet must carry three B-I or one B-I and one B-II. c. Visual Distress Signals (VSD) - Vessels used on RI waters must be equipped with proper visual distress signals that are USCG approved, in serviceable condition, and readily accessible. Vessels under 26 ft. require 3 night VSDs while those 26 feet or longer require both 3 day and 3 night VSDs. d. Whistle (horn) and Bell - All vessels must carry an efficient sound-producing device (whistle or horn). Vessels 12 meters (36 feet) in length or longer must also carry a bell. 5. All motorboats must carry and display the proper navigation lights for their size class when operating between sunset and sunrise and during daylight periods of reduced visibility. 6. All vessels equipped with an engine must have a factory-type muffler or exhaust water manifold installed on the engine or another effec- tive muffling system for noise reduction purposes. 7. No person shall operate any motorboat or vessel or manipulate any water skis, surfboard, or similar device in a reckless manner so as to endanger the life, limb, or property of another. 8. Any person transporting a child under thirteen (13) years of age in a recreational vessel less than 65 ft. in length on the waters of this state, shall require that the child wear a personal flotation device approved by the USCG when underway unless below deck or in a closed cabin. 9. No person shall operate any motorboat or vessel in any harbor or inlet or any pond or other confined body of water in this state in excess of forty-five (45) miles per hour during the hours from sunrise drugs such that his/her thought or actions are impaired causing to sunset and twenty-five (25) miles per hour during per ods of dark- danger to others. RI law sets blood alcohol limit for boating while ness or other periods of restricted visibility. intoxicated at 0.08% or greater. 10. RI law prohibits anyone from boating while intoxicated (BWI). This 11. Any person SCUBA diving, skin diving, or snorkeling in any area includes the operation of any powerboat, sailboat, personal water- where power or motorboats are operated shall place a diver’s warning craft, water skis, sailboard, or similar device. Intoxicated means a flag on a buoy at a place of his or her submergence. No person shall person is under the influence of alcohol, a controlled substance or operated a motorboat within fifty (50) feet of a displayed diver’s flag.
18 2017-2018 Rhode Island Freshwater Fishing Guide Trout stamps Collect Your Trout Stamps Now
In 2013, RIDEM Division of Fish and supports the state trout hatcheries. They are available by individual Wildlife published Rhode Island’s first stamp or by sheet. freshwater fish guide, ‘Inland Fishes of And if you are interested in more than just the Trout Conservation Rhode Island’ written by Alan D. Libby Stamp, our Inland Fishes of Rhode Island by Alan Libby with illustra- and illustrated by Robert Jon Golder. In tions by Robert Jon Golder is still available! This publication describes 2014, those illustrations were the focal more than 70 fishes found in over 377 pond and stream locations point of a four year series of trout stamps throughout Rhode Island. With gorgeous color as well as black and featuring Mr. Golder’s beautiful and white scientific illustrations, each fish is addressed with a detailed de- scientifically accurate artwork. The first scription and color location map. Alan D. Libby is a Principal Freshwater of the series was the brook trout stamp Biologist and has worked for the Division of Fish and Wildlife for over in 2014 and the final stamp features the 30 years. He has dedicated over 15 years surveying the many lakes and golden rainbow trout, the most recent of streams throughout Rhode Island. the trout to be stocked in Rhode Island. Three Ways to Purchase: DEM Division of Boating and Licensing Now is your chance to collect all located at 235 Promenade Street, Providence. Cash, check or credit (with four of the full colored trout stamps! And you do not need to have a $1.50 convenience fee); Great Swamp Fish and Wildlife Headquarters fishing license buy them. Simply visit RI Department of Environmen- located at 277 Great Neck Road, West Kingston, office hours 8:30am- tal Management Office of Boating Registration and Licensing at 235 4pm, check or money order only; On-line, mail-in order form: Print, Promenade Street in Providence, RI 02908. Each stamp is $5.50 and complete and send along with check or money order only - http://www. goes directly into the dedicated Trout Conservation Stamp Fund which dem.ri.gov/programs/bnatres/fishwild/pdf/fishorder.pdf.
Tips for Releasing Live Fish If fish are to be taken as part of the daily creel limit, they should be killed immedi- ately and kept cool until they can be prepared for the table. If an angler wishes to release a live fish, either because it is undersized or because they are practicing catch and release fishing, the following procedures are recommended: 1. Land the fish as quickly as possible to minimize stress to the fish. Playing a fish to the point of exhaustion will lessen its chance for survival.
2. Wet your hands before handling the fish; dry hands will remove the fish’s pro- tective slime layer and leave the fish open to bacterial and fungal infections.
3. Handle the fish carefully. Do not use excessive force when grasping the fish. Do not put fingers into the gill cavities or eye sockets. A wet glove can be a useful aid in grasping the fish because it reduces the amount of pressure needed to hold the fish securely.
4. Gently remove the hook to minimize damage. A pair of long-nose pliers will make the job easier.
5. If you are intentionally practicing catch and release fishing, use artificial lures with single, barbless hooks, or circle hooks to minimize damage to the fish.
6. Do not attempt to remove a hook that is deeply embedded in the gullet. Instead, cut the line off as close to the hook as possi- ble and release. The fish will have a better chance of survival if the hook is left in place; the hook will eventually disintegrate.
7. Return the fish to the water as quickly as possible. Lower it back into the water in an upright position and move it back and forth in the water to force water across its gills. Once the fish revives, allow it to swim away.
2017-2018 Rhode Island Freshwater Fishing Guide 19 Management Area boating regulations
5. The launching, hauling, and operation of boats with motors of any Management Area Boating Regulations kind, except electric trolling motors, is prohibited from state-owned Pond Town Regulation and/or operated ramps on the following bodies of water: Spring Lake A.L. Mowry Pond Smithfield 1, 3 & Union Pond, Burrillville; Clarkville Pond & Lake Washington, Alton Pond Hopkinton 4, 13-16 Glocester; Shippee Mill Pond, Foster; Pawtuxet River (Hope), Scituate; Asa Pond South Kingstown 4, 13-16 Carbuncle Pond, Coventry; Silver Spring Lake, North Kingstown; Barber Pond, South Kingstown; Blue Pond, Hopkinton; Simmons Mill Ashville Pond Hopkinton 6, 13-16 Pond, Little Compton, and Browning Mill Pond, Richmond. Barber Pond South Kingstown 5, 13-16 Blue Pond Hopkinton 5, 13-16 6. The use of motors in excess of ten (10) horsepower on boats Bowdish Reservoir Glocester 6, 13-16, 17 launched, hauled, or operated from state-owned and/or operated Breakheart Pond Exeter 12, 13-16 ramps is prohibited on the following bodies of water: Wilson Res- ervoir, Burrillville; Keach Pond, Smith and Sayles Reservoir (Sand Browning Mill Pond Richmond 5, 13-16 Dam) & Bowdish Reservoir, Glocester; Woonasquatucket Reservoir Carbuncle Pond Coventry 5, 13-16 (Stump Pond), Smithfield; Indian Lake & Tucker Pond, South Kings- Carolina Trout Pond Richmond 1, 3 town; Ashville Pond, & Locustville Pond, Hopkinton; and Chapman Chapman Pond Westerly 6, 13-16 Pond, Westerly. Clarkville Pond Glocester 5, 13-16 Deep Pond (Arcadia) Exeter 3 7. No person shall use a motor in excess of ten (10) horsepower from state-owned and/or operated ramps on Stafford Pond, Tiverton and Frosty Hollow Pond Exeter 1, 3 Wilson Reservoir, Burrillville, with the exception that the use of motors Great Swamp Dike West Kingston 2, 13-16 in excess of ten (10) horsepower on boats launched, hauled, or operated Gristmill Pond Glocester 3 from state-owned and/or operated ramps on Stafford Pond, Tiverton, Indian Lake South Kingstown 6, 13-16 and Wilson Reservoir, Burrillville, is permitted for organized fishing John L. Curran Reservoir Cranston 12, 13-16 activities possessing a valid permit from RIDEM-Fish & Wildlife; as Keach Pond Glocester 6, 13-16 described in Section 1.16, Freshwater and Diadromous Fishing Regula- Lake Washington Glocester 5, 13-16 tions and on page 7 of this 2017 Freshwater Fishing Guide. Little Round Top Pond Burrillville 1, 3 8. The use of motors in excess of ten (10) horsepower on boats launched, Locustville Pond Hopkinton 6, 13-16 hauled, or operated from the state-owned ramp on Wakefield Pond, Lower Roaring Brook Pond Exeter 3 Burrillville, is prohibited at all times. The use of any motor on a boat Olney Pond Lincoln 10,11, 13-16 from this state-owned ramp, except electric trolling motors, is pro- Pascoag Reservoir Glocester 9, 13-16 hibited from June 20th to September 20th of any year, inclusive. Pawtuxet River (Hope) Scituate 5, 13-16 9. No person shall launch any motorboat with a motor in excess of Peck Pond Burrillville 3 ten (10) horsepower from state-owned and/or operated ramps on Round Top Pond Burrillville 3 Pascoag Reservoir at the state-owned launching ramp on School- Shippee Saw Mill Pond Foster 5, 13-16 house Road, Glocester, with the exception that permitted organized Silver Spring Lake North Kingstown 5, 13-16 fishing activities, i.e. tournaments, shall be allowed to use motors in Simmons Mill Pond Little Compton 5, 13-16 excess of ten (10) horsepower on the waters of Pascoag Reservoir at Smith and Sayles Reservoir Glocester 6, 13-16 the state-owned launching ramp on Schoolhouse Road, Glocester, Spring Lake Burrillville 5, 13-16 between the Saturday before Memorial Day and Labor Day of each Stafford Pond Tiverton 7, 13-16 year, inclusive. Tucker Pond South Kingstown 6, 13-16 10. The operation of boats with motors of any kind, except electric troll- Union Pond Burrillville 5, 13-16 ing motors, are prohibited on the waters of Olney Pond in Lincoln Upper Roaring Brook Pond Exeter 4, 13-16 Woods State Park on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays between the Wakefield Pond Burrillville 8, 13-16 Saturday before Memorial Day and Labor Day of each year, inclusive. Wilson Reservoir Burrillville 6, 7, 13-16 11. The operation of boats with motors of any kind, except electric troll- Woonasquatucket Reservoir Smithfield 6, 13-16 ing motors, owned by persons other than the State of Rhode Island (Stump Pond) with motors in excess of ten (10) horsepower are prohibited upon Olney Pond in Lincoln Woods State Park except with official written 1. Definition: Float Tube—any device manufactured and sold for use as permission from the Department of Environmental Management. a fishing float tube. Float tubes are prohibited on the following ponds: 12. The use of motors in excess of ten (10) horsepower on boats Little Round Top Pond, Burrillville; A.L. Mowry Pond, Smithfield; launched, hauled, or operated on the waters of Breakheart Pond in Frosty Hollow Pond, Exeter; and Carolina Trout Pond, Richmond. Exeter and John L. Curran State Park is prohibited. 2. Boating is prohibited within the impoundment created by the Great 13. Only vehicles launching or landing a boat will be permitted to park Swamp dike, except with official written permission. Official written in designated boat trailer parking areas. permission is not required from July 15th through October 15th. All motors are prohibited at all times. 14. The mooring of boats, the parking of vehicles, or engaging in any other activity on land or water so as to obstruct the use of a boat 3. Boats are prohibited on the following ponds: Carolina Trout Pond, launching ramp by others, is prohibited. Richmond; Deep Pond (Arcadia) & Frosty Hollow Pond, Exeter; Peck Pond, Round Top Pond & Little Round Top Pond, Burrillville; 15. Boats shall be launched only at designated areas. A.L. Mowry Pond, Smithfield; Lower Roaring Brook Pond, Exeter; 16. Boats shall be tied up at state boat ramps for no longer than 30 minutes. Gristmill Pond, Glocester (no public access, no longer stocked). 17. Gated access to the boat ramp located within the George Washing- 4. The launching, hauling, or operation of boats with motors of any ton Management Area Campground (Bowdish Reservoir) is limited kind is prohibited from state-owned and/or operated ramps on the daily between 7:30 AM to 10:00 PM from Memorial Day to October following ponds: Asa Pond, South Kingstown; Alton Pond, Hopkin- 31st. Persons using the reservoir or boat ramp prior to 10:00 PM for ton; and Upper Roaring Brook Ponds, Exeter. authorized uses may exit the area unrestricted by gate access times. 20 2017-2018 Rhode Island Freshwater Fishing Guide Award programs Rhode Island Game Fish Gamefish Award Qualifying Weights/ Award Program Lengths (Except First Fish Awards)
Annually, RIDEM-Division of Fish & Wildlife recognizes anglers who have caught freshwater and saltwater game fish of notable size. Game Qualifying Freshwater Weights or Lengths Fish Awards are presented to anglers for each species of game fish caught that meet the minimum size requirements listed below. Only one award Smallmouth Bass 4 lbs. White Catfish 4 lbs. will be presented to an angler for each species per year. State Record Largemouth Bass 6 lbs. Chain Pickerel 4 lbs. Game Fish Awards are presented to the angler whose game fish catch is the largest to date of a species, as determined by Division records. To Bluegill 9 in. Northern Pike 10 lbs. receive an award, an angler must catch a qualifying fish by rod and reel, tie-up or handline by legal means in Rhode Island waters. To apply for Pumpkinseed 8 in. Brook Trout 2 lbs. a Game Fish Award or State Record Game Fish Award, an angler must bring his or her legally-caught fish to an official weigh-in station, such as Black Crappie 12 in. Brown Trout 3 lbs. a bait and tackle shop, sporting goods store or grocery fish department. Yellow Perch 12 in. Rainbow Trout 3 lbs. The fish must be identified, measured, and weighed on a digital scale. The station operator will fill out a Game Fish Award Application and White Perch 15 in. Brown Bullhead 13 in. sign it. If keeping a fish, legal sizes must be adhered to in all cases. Game Fish Awards and State Record Game Fish Awards are mailed out in the the spring of the following year the fish are caught. Send completed Qualifying Saltwater Weights applications to: RIDEM- Fish & Wildlife, 1B Camp E-Hun-Tee Place, Exeter, RI 02822, for verification and processing. Applications can be Striped Bass 50 lbs. Pollack 15 lbs. obtained on the DEM website. For questions on the Game Fish Award Program, email [email protected] or call (401) 539-0037. Sea Bass 3 lbs. Scup 2½ lbs. First Fish Award Program Bluefish 18 lbs. Hickory Shad 5 lbs. Bonito 10 lbs. Blue Shark 80 lbs. First Fish Awards are available for children catching their first fish. To receive an award, an angler must have caught a qualifying fish by rod Cod 20 lbs. Mako Shark 150 lbs. and real, tie-up or handline by legal means in Rhode Island. First Fish Winter Flounder 2 lbs. Swordfish 200 lbs. Awards can be processed with information on the child’s catch with- out official weigh-in station verification. If keeping a fish, legal sizes Summer Flounder 8 lbs. Squeteague 8 lbs. must be adhered to. Applications can be downloaded using this link: www.dem.ri.gov/topics/fwtopics.htm. First Fish Awards are sent as soon King Mackerel 3 lbs. Tautog 10 lbs. as possible. Please send completed applications to RIDEM Division of Fish and Wildlife, 1B Camp E-Hun-Tee Place, Exeter, RI 02822. For Mackerel 1 lbs. Bluefin Tuna 450 lbs. questions pertaining to the First Fish Award program, please contact Yellowfin Tuna 125 lbs. White Marlin 70 lbs. Kimberly Sullivan at [email protected] or (401) 539-0037.
First Fish Award
APPLICATION DID YOU CATCH YOUR FIRST FISH? PLEASE CUT OUT, COMPLETE, AND SEND THIS FORM TO RECEIVE A SPECIAL CERTIFICATE AND GIFT FROM THE RHODE ISLAND DIVISION OF FISH AND WILDLIFE! You can also visit http://www.dem.ri.gov/programs/fish-wildlife/freshwater-fisheries/first-fish.php to print out a copy.
NAME: ______DATE YOU CAUGHT THE FISH: ______
ADDRESS: ______TOWN ______ST _____ ZIP ______
EMAIL (optional): ______FISH SPECIES: ______
WHERE YOU CAUGHT THE FISH: ______
WEIGHT OF FISH: ______LENGTH OF FISH (tip of snout to tip of tail): ______
SIGNATURE OF WITNESS (parent, grandparent, or other responsible adult): ______
RETURN TO: RI Division of Fish and Wildlife / Aquatic Resource Education Program 1B Camp E-Hun-Tee Place / Exeter, RI 02882
2017-2018 Rhode Island Freshwater Fishing Guide 21 Kids corner
BROOK TROUT Brook Trout, Rhode Island’s only na- 1 2 tive trout species, are members of the Salmonid family. They live in cold fresh- 3 water streams and rivers. In the fall, brook trout create nests, or redds, in 4 the sand and gravel of shallow streambeds. The female fans its tail 5 6 over the redd site and then deposits up to 1,000 eggs. The males fertilize the 7 eggs with milt. Once fertilized, the eggs develop and hatch to become fry. Fry are baby fish that have a yolk sac. Once the yolk sac is used up, the fry are ready to eat bugs that live in the bottom of 8 9 10 the stream. In the wild, brook trout normally reach about 6-10 inches in 11 length and weigh about half a pound.. To protect the wild trout from being 12 over -fished, Rhode Island has hatcher- ies to raise trout for anglers. The eggs 13 are raised in an incubator system and then transferred to cement raceways. By raising the trout in the hatchery, the fish are protected from being eaten by 14 15 16 predators like birds and other fish. They can also be raised to be bigger. Once the trout reach a pound (aroung 12 -13 inches in length), they are stocked in
rivers, ponds, and streams throughout Rhode Island for all to enjoy. 17
11. Trout can be found in a _____ 2. Males release _____ which fertiliz- where there is a constant flow of cold es the eggs. water. 3. In Rhode Island there are four 12. Trout just hatched from eggs are _____ that raise trout. referred to as _____. 4. Rhode Island has a number of shal- 13. All fish have_____ which allow low _____ which are ideal waterways them to breathe under water. for brook trout. CROSSWORD CLUES 14. Brook trout are the only _____ spe- 6. In the wild, trout make a nest, to ACROSS cies of trout in Rhode Island; rainbow deposit their eggs, called a ____. and brown trout come from other areas 1. Brook Trout belong to the _____ 9. Like humans, trout need to have a lot of the world. family of fish. of _____ in the water to breathe. 17. A term which refers to a trout that 4. Brook trout _____ in the fall, which 10. Trout prefer to build their nests in is not hatched and raised in a hatchery means they lay and fertilize their eggs. sand and _____ areas in the streambed. is referred to as a _____ trout. 5. Brook _____ are beautifully colored 15. Trout use their _____ to fan the DOWN fish. sand and make their redd. 1. Outside covering of fish is referred 7. Trout raised in a hatchery are kept in 16. Female trout lay _____ in the nest to as _____. a cement holding area called a _____. that are later fertilized by the male. 8. Trout live in the Northern regions of the world because they need _____
freshwater.
DOWN: 1. scales, 2. milt, 3. hatcheries, 4. streams, 6. redd, 9. oxygen, 10. gravel, 15. tails, 16. eggs. 16. tails, 15. gravel, 10. oxygen, 9. redd, 6. streams, 4. hatcheries, 3. milt, 2. scales, 1. DOWN:
ACROSS: 1. salmonid, 4. spawn, 5. trout, 7. raceway, 8. cold, 11. river, 12. fry, 13. gills, 14. native, 17. wild. 17. native, 14. gills, 13. fry, 12. river, 11. cold, 8. raceway, 7. trout, 5. spawn, 4. salmonid, 1. ACROSS: Crossword Answer key: Answer Crossword
22 2017-2018 Rhode Island Freshwater Fishing Guide Largemouth Bass state record A New Largemouth Bass State Record!
Earlier this year, Rhode Island DEM Division of Fish and Wildlife certified the following: A largemouth bass was caught by Brandon Migliore of Sterling, Connecticut, on April 30, 2016 from Johnson’s Pond in Coventry, Rhode Island. This impressive fish weighed 11 pounds and 3.2 ounces, was 25 inches long and was 20 - 1/8 inches in girth. Scale analysis by Division fisheries biologists determined that the female fish was 14 years old. We would like to thank Sandy Bottom Bait and Tackle shop as well as RIDEM LE Officer Knowl- eton for their assistance with this new state record. This record beats the previous State Record Bass that weighed in at 10 lbs. 6 ozs., 24.5 inches, May 1991 by Nicolas Finamore of Johnston, RI, caught from Carbuncle Pond in Coventry. For more information on the State Record Fish, Game Fish Awards, and the certification procedure, please see page 21 of the Freshwater Fishing Guide or contact the Division of Fish and Wildlife at 401-789-0281.
Johnson’s Pond
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2017-2018 Rhode Island Freshwater Fishing Guide 23 Sportfishingrecords RI Sportfishing Records 2016 - Freshwater
Species Weight Length Date Location Angler
Smallmouth Bass 5 lbs. 15 oz. 22.5" 9/77 Wash Pond B. Ferris - Wakefield, RI Largemouth Bass 11 lbs. 3.2 oz. 25" 4/16 Johnson’s Pond B. Migliore - Sterling, CT Bluegill 2 lbs. 1 oz. 12" 8/87 — C. Rizzo - Pascoag, RI Pumpkinseed 12.5 oz. 10" 5/01 Indian Lake J. Hall - Wakefield, RI Black Crappie 3 lbs. 15" 7/76 Watchaug Pond R. Sevegny - Pawtucket, RI Yellow Perch 2 lbs. 4 oz. 13.5" 2/87 Pascoag Reservoir D. LaRochelle - Glendale, RI White Perch 2 lbs. 0.25 oz. 15.5" 12/09 Narrow River P. Warner - Narragansett, RI Carp 32 lbs. 8 oz. 37" 6/01 Tiogue Lake S. Wasilewski - Hope Valley, RI Brown Bullhead 9.44 lbs. 18.5" 8/98 — H. Laramee - Cumberland, RI White Catfish 16 lbs. 12 oz. 33" 8/94 Tiogue Lake L. Angell - Coventry, RI Chain Pickerel 6 lbs. 14 oz. 27.75" 8/05 Beach Pond T. Egan - Hope Valley, RI Northern Pike 35 lbs. 47.5" 10/87 Hundred Acre Pond D. LaRose - Coventry, RI Brook Trout 3 lbs. 12 oz. 21" 10/84 Wyoming Pond R. Boucher, Jr. - Warwick, RI Brown Trout 7 lbs. 9 oz. 26" 4/00 Wallum Lake R. Groleau - Blackstone, MA Rainbow Trout 11 lbs. — 4/91 Pawcatuck River M. Wencek - Wakefield, RI Atlantic Salmon 21 lbs. 9 oz. 41" 1/04 Barber Pond R. Maldonis - Arlington, MA Domestic, stocked (landlocked)
Hypothermia Hypothermia is a condition in which the body loses heat faster than it can be produced. This causes a dangerous reduction of the body’s inner temperature. Hypothermia results from exposure to wind and wetness. A victim of hypothermia may become blue- gray in color. Violent shivering develops which may give way to muscle spasms and even loss of the use of arms and legs. Confu- sion and drunken-like behavior also indicate that a person may be hypothermic. To protect yourself, avoid the conditions that cause hypothermia. Dress warm and stay dry. Know the effects the wind has on cold weather. It may be 40 F (7 C) outside with the sun shining, but a 10 mph wind lowers the wind-chill temperature to 28 F (-2 C). Refer to the Hypothermia Table to see the general effects cold water temperatures have on the body. When a person falls into cold water, there are ways to increase the chances of survival. Don’t discard clothing; it helps trap the body’s heat. Minimize movement; thrashing around in cold water only leads to exhaustion, and swirling water takes heat from the body more rapidly than still water. Wear a personal flotation device (PFD) which will help for two reasons: it lessens the need to move around in the water and it helps to insulate against heat loss. When wearing a PFD, a person should draw their knees into a position known as Exhaustion or If the water Expected survival HELP (Heat Escape Lessening Posture). If there are unconsciousness temperature (F) is... time is... several people in the water, huddling together occurs within... with arms around each other’s shoulders is the best survival technique. less than 32.5 less than 15 minutes less than 45 minutes Treatment for hypothermia involves getting heat 32.5-40.0 15-40 minutes 30-90 minutes back into the body and raising the inner tempera- ture. Skin-to-skin contact and mouth-to-mouth 40-50 30-60 minutes 1-3 hours resuscitation (even when the victim is conscious) are 50-60 1-2 hours 1-6 hours excellent ways to transfer heat. Do not give alcohol or massage a person vigorously to treat hypother- 60-70 2-7 hours 2-40 hours mia; a hot bath is fine for mild cases but never if 70-80 3-12 hours 3-indefinitely the victim is unconscious. For further information, contact your local Red Cross Chapter. over 80 indefinitely indefinitely
24 2017-2018 Rhode Island Freshwater Fishing Guide RI Sportfishing Records 2016 - Saltwater
Species Weight Length Date Location Angler Sea Bass 8 lbs. 7.25 oz. 26" 10/81 Block Island K. McDuffie - Pascoag, RI Striped Bass 77 lbs. 6.4 oz 52" 6/11 Block Island P. Vican - E. Greenwich, RI Bluefish 26 lbs. 39" 8/81 — D. Deziel - Woonsocket, RI Bonito 13 lbs. — 10/95 Westerly R. Gliottone - Exeter, RI Cod 71 lbs. — 6/65 — M. Deciantis - Warwick, RI Summer Flounder 17 lbs. 8 oz. — 1962 Narrow River G. Farmer - Warwick, RI Winter Flounder 6 lbs. 7 oz. 23" 8/90 Galilee A. Pearson - Cranston, RI King Mackerel 12 lbs. 3 oz. 40" 8/00 Point Judith A. Camilleri - Chester, CT Atlantic Mackerel OPEN Pollack 28 lbs. 8 oz. — 5/95 — A. Jacobs - Lincoln, RI Scup 5 lbs. 20.25" 10/90 — J. Yurwitz - Block Island, RI American Shad (Closed) 6 lbs. 8 oz. 25" 4/85 Runnins River W. Socha - Warren, RI Hickory Shad 2 lbs. 11 oz. 20” 11/89 Narrow River M. Pickering - Lincoln, RI Blue Shark 431 lbs. 2 oz. 12’6" 11/06 Cox Ledge G. Gross - Fairfield, NJ Mako Shark 718 lbs. 10’6" 6/93 S. Block Island W. Alessi - Boston, MA Swordfish 434 lbs. 13’6" 8/11 Hydro. Canyon L. DeFusco - W. Warwick, RI Squeteague 16 lbs. 8.72 oz. 36" 5/07 Greenwich Bay R. Moeller - N. Kingstown, RI Tautog 21 lbs. 4 oz. — 11/54 Jamestown C.W. Sunquist Bluefin Tuna 1142 lbs. — 9/71 Block Island J. Dempsey Yellowfin Tuna 265 lbs. 6' 10/97 The Dip R. Hughes - Arlington, MA White Marlin 125 lbs. 8' 0.5" 8/87 S. Block Island J. Luty, Sr. - Preston, CT
Proudl servin peopl withi 60 mil of Woonsocke! 401-651-6178 341 Burnside Avenue Woonsocket, RI 02895-2283
• We sell hunting, fresh and saltwater fi shing licenses
• Live/frozen bait for fresh or saltwater
OPEN 7 DAYS Including holidays! 6AM - 8PM
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