More than 20,000 anglers were expected to cast lines into the state’s fresh water fishing holes this morning. According to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, there are approximately 175,000 recreational anglers (age 16+) in Rhode Island. And recreational fishing contributes more than $130 million to the economy each year.
RI DEM has posted a complete list of designated trout waters stocked prior to opening day.
The following fishing spots on the list are nearby Warwick:
East Greenwich: Frenchtown Park Pond
East Greenwich: Hunt River
Cranston: J.L. Curran Reservoir
Cranston: Meshanticut Brook
Several ponds will be open to young anglers only this weekend.
On Saturday, a children’s fishing derby will be held at Pondarosa Park Pond in Little Compton.
On Saturday and Sunday, fishing in Cass Pond in Woonsocket, Slater Park Pond in Pawtucket, and Ponderosa Park Pond in Little Compton will be reserved for children 14 years and under.
For more information on ponds reserved for children-only fishing year round, check DEM’s list.
Anglers are advised to take the following safety precautions on Opening Day:
- Stand back from the shoreline and be aware of surroundings.
- If fishing from a boat, always wear a life jacket, and ensure boats are seaworthy before going out on the water.
- Avoid drinking alcohol while operating a boat.
- Remain in the boat at all times; water temperatures are low and risk of drowning due to the effects of cold water is high.
- If the boat capsizes, remain with the boat where you are more likely to be seen by rescuers; swim for shore only if wearing a life jacket, if the likelihood of rescue is low, or if you are close to shore and not able to climb back into or on top of the boat.
A current fishing license and a Trout Conservation Stamp are required to keep or possess a trout. The daily creel and possession limit for trout is five from April 9, 2016 through November 30, 2016. The use of external felt soled or any natural or synthetic porous material capable of absorbing water in any freshwaters in Rhode Island is strictly prohibited. This includes any waters shared with adjacent states in which Rhode Island fishing regulations apply. For more information or to purchase a license, visitwww.dem.ri.gov.
Author: Rob Borkowski
Rob has worked as reporter and editor for several publications, including The Kent County Daily Times and Coventry Courier, before working for Gatehouse in MA then moving home with Patch Media. Now he's publisher and editor of WarwickPost.com. Contact him at editor@warwickpost.com with tips, press releases, advertising inquiries, and concerns.
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