Ocean State Today

The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) has announced its winter trout and salmon stocking schedule. Stocking will occur in selected areas from January 21 to January 23.

Stocking locations include Barber Pond in South Kingstown, Round Top Ponds in Burrillville, and Onley Pond at Lincoln Woods State Park, among others. The species being stocked are Golden Rainbow Trout, Rainbow Trout, Brook Trout, and Salmon.

For updates on daily stocking activities, the public can visit DEM's Division of Fish and Wildlife's Facebook page or the website www.dem.ri.gov/troutwaters. Alternatively, information is available by calling 401-789-0281 or 401-539-0019.

Anglers aged 15 and older require a 2024 fishing license to fish for trout. A Trout Conservation Stamp is also necessary for keeping or possessing trout unless taken from a lake or pond bordering Rhode Island. Licenses can be purchased online through DEM’s Rhode Island Outdoors portal.

The DEM reminds anglers of recent changes to Freshwater Regulations: "The daily creel/possession limit for trout and/or landlocked domestic salmon singly or in aggregate is two from Dec. 1, 2024, through Feb. 28, 2025." Other regulations specify limits on Atlantic Salmon and designate certain areas as catch-and-release zones.

Prohibited activities include using felt-soled waders in freshwater areas to prevent spreading invasive species and entering state boat ramps with vegetation attached to boats or equipment.

DEM advises caution regarding ice conditions on ponds for winter activities like ice fishing or skating. Local recreation departments should be contacted for safe ice conditions since DEM does not monitor these locally.

For further details about DEM programs and safety tips during winter activities, the public can visit www.dem.ri.gov or follow their social media channels for updates.