New Saltwater fishing guide is out

Publication Available at Numerous Venues throughout RI Including Bait and Tackle Shops, Marine Supply Stores, Town Halls, Chambers of Commerce

PROVIDENCE - The Department of Environmental Management announces the publication of the first annual Rhode Island Recreational Saltwater Fishing Guide, which is now available at bait and tackle shops, marine supply stores, town halls, chambers of commerce, and other locations throughout the state.

"This new guide is designed to help make the already great experience of saltwater fishing in Rhode Island even better," said DEM Director Janet Coit. "It's a guide designed to serve the interests of all saltwater fishermen – newcomers to the sport as well as seasoned anglers."

The new, full-color magazine provides information on a variety of fishing-related issues including current recreational fishing regulations, some of which have been liberalized for 2013. It also includes information on local fishing and boating access sites, commonly caught species, and a variety of articles on recreational fishing issues and events. The publication also features information on local businesses that provide fishing-related services and supplies such as party and charter boats, and bait and tackle shops.

The new guide is funded entirely through excise taxes that fishermen pay on tackle, fishing equipment and fuel through the federal Sportfish Restoration Program, and licensing fees through the RI Recreational Saltwater License Program.

"Rhode Island offers some the best saltwater recreational fishing around," noted Director Coit. "Whether you fish the waters of Narragansett Bay and the salt ponds, the coastal waters stretching from Westerly to Little Compton, the Block Island surf, or the deep Atlantic offshore waters, Rhode Island anglers have many fantastic fishing opportunities that run throughout the year. Striped bass, summer flounder, bluefish, scup, black sea bass, tautog, tuna, and sharks are just a few of the many species that Rhode Island saltwater recreational anglers target."

In addition to being a traditional pastime and a great way to obtain fresh and healthy seafood, recreational saltwater fishing is an important economic driver for the State. According to newly released estimates from the federal government, expenditures by recreational saltwater fishermen in Rhode Island total about $179 million annually; those expenditures generate some $157 million in sales and $48 million in income, and support nearly 1,300 jobs.

The guide is also available online at www.eregulations.com.

"We hope this recreational fishing guide enhances your recreational fishing experiences and encourages you to utilize responsible angling practices," said Director Coit. "Remember to be respectful to both the environment and fellow anglers, but most importantly – have fun. Now, get out there and fish!"

DEM reminds all saltwater anglers that a 2013 RI saltwater license is needed to fish recreationally in all marine waters – go to www.saltwater.ri.gov for more information, including how to obtain a license online or at a local vendor.