Spearfishing
Connecticut Spearfishing
Regulations 2026
Allowed species, endorsement requirements, and freshwater vs. saltwater rules for spearfishing in Connecticut. Connecticut allows spearfishing in tidal/marine waters with a fishing license. Spearfishing is generally prohibited in freshwater.
Saltwater Allowed
2026 Spearfishing Quick Facts
Verified 2026
Resident Fee
$19.00
Covered by standard fishing license.
Non-Resident Fee
$35.00
Annual license
Saltwater
Allowed
With restrictions
Freshwater
Restricted
Game fish may be banned
Species Regulations
Allowed & Prohibited Species in Connecticut
Allowed Species
Flounder, striped bass (with size/bag limits), bluefish in marine waters
Prohibited Species
All freshwater fish; certain protected species
Step-by-Step
How to Get a Spearfishing License in Connecticut
1
Purchase a Fishing License
All spearfishing in Connecticut requires a valid fishing license as the base credential. Purchase through Connecticut DEEP online, at license agents, or by phone. Spearfishing license fee: $19.00.
2
Know the Rules
Review the specific allowed and prohibited species for the waters you intend to spearfish.
Freshwater game fish spearfishing is restricted in Connecticut — focus on saltwater or non-game species. Saltwater spearfishing is permitted with appropriate licensing. Check for any marine protected area restrictions at your planned dive site.
3
Check Location-Specific Rules
Marine protected areas, state parks, and wildlife management areas may have additional restrictions or prohibitions on spearfishing. Always verify the specific rules for your dive location with Connecticut DEEP before entering the water.
Requirements
Connecticut Spearfishing Requirements
CT fishing license required.
Important Notes
Connecticut-Specific Regulations
Connecticut allows spearfishing in saltwater only; a valid Connecticut saltwater fishing license (or registration with the NOAA registry) is required to take fish by spear in Long Island Sound and coastal tidal waters. Striped bass, bluefish, and most finfish may be taken by speargun or pole spear, subject to standard bag and size limits enforced by the CT DEEP Marine Fisheries Division. Nighttime spearfishing is permitted in Connecticut saltwater provided divers use a properly displayed diver-down flag.
Source: Connecticut DEEP (www.ct.gov).
Regulations verified 2026. Always confirm current species rules and location restrictions directly with Connecticut DEEP.