Spearfishing
Rhode Island Spearfishing
Regulations 2026
Allowed species, endorsement requirements, and freshwater vs. saltwater rules for spearfishing in Rhode Island. Rhode Island allows spearfishing in marine waters. A saltwater fishing license is required. Freshwater spearfishing is generally prohibited.
Saltwater Allowed
2026 Spearfishing Quick Facts
Verified 2026
Resident Fee
$18.00
Saltwater fishing license required; same fee for resident and non-resident.
Non-Resident Fee
$18.00
Annual license
Saltwater
Allowed
With restrictions
Freshwater
Restricted
Game fish may be banned
Species Regulations
Allowed & Prohibited Species in Rhode Island
Allowed Species
Striped bass, bluefish, tautog, flounder in Narragansett Bay and coastal waters
Prohibited Species
Freshwater species; shellfish (separate permits)
Step-by-Step
How to Get a Spearfishing License in Rhode Island
1
Purchase a Fishing License
All spearfishing in Rhode Island requires a valid fishing license as the base credential. Purchase through Rhode Island Division of Fish & Wildlife online, at license agents, or by phone. Spearfishing license fee: $18.00.
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 Rhode Island - 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 Rhode Island Division of Fish & Wildlife before entering the water.
Requirements
Rhode Island Spearfishing Requirements
Rhode Island saltwater fishing license required.
Important Notes
Rhode Island-Specific Regulations
Rhode Island permits saltwater spearfishing in Narragansett Bay and Rhode Island Sound; a valid RI Recreational Saltwater Fishing License (or NOAA registry) is required. Spearguns and pole spears are legal for most coastal finfish including tautog, sea bass, and striped bass (subject to state size and bag limits). Nighttime spearfishing is allowed in Rhode Island saltwater, and divers must display a diver-down flag within 100 feet while submerged.
Source: Rhode Island Division of Fish & Wildlife (dem.ri.gov).
Regulations verified 2026. Always confirm current species rules and location restrictions directly with Rhode Island Division of Fish & Wildlife.