FishKillFlea Rhode Island Fishing License Guide (2026)
Rhode Island requires a freshwater fishing license for anyone 15 years or older. No saltwater fishing license is required — the state participates in the free Atlantic Coastal Recreational Fisheries registry. Despite its small size, RI offers great striped bass and bluefish in Narragansett Bay.
15+
Min Age
Yes
Free Days
$18
Resident/yr
$35
Non-Res/yr
💰 License Costs (2026)
Resident Licenses
| License Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Annual Resident Freshwater | $18 |
Non-Resident Licenses
| License Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Annual Non-Resident | $35 |
| 1-Day Non-Resident | $5 |
Senior & Special Licenses
| License Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Senior License (65+) FREE for RI residents 65+ | $0 |
Additional Stamps & Permits
| Stamp | Price | Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Trout Conservation Stamp Required for trout fishing | $5.50 | Required |
📍 Where to Buy
Explore all Rhode Island purchase options →📅 Timing & Free Fishing Days
Free Fishing Days 2026
May
2
Jun
6
License Validity
👤 Age Requirements & Exemptions
👶
Under 15 Exemption
👴
FREE License for Seniors (65+)
✅
FREE Saltwater Fishing
⚖️ Penalties for Fishing Without a License
$50–$
500
citation
🔧 How to Get Your License
-
1
Visit the Official Portal
-
2
Select Your License Type
-
3
Complete Payment & Download