Enhanced Fishing Opportunities

 Enhanced Opportunity Shore Fishing Program

This Marine Fisheries program is part of a broader Department effort to improve the quality of access and fishing to our Public Trust marine fisheries resources in CT, especially in urban areas. This unique program relies on reduced size limit regulations to allow anglers young and old alike the opportunity to experience the joy and relaxation of outdoor recreation and the satisfaction of catching their own dinner. At the same time, the design of this program assures that marine fish conservation objectives continue to be met.

Bonus Striper Fishing Program

Between May 1 and June 30, inclusive striped bass at least 22 inches but less than 28 inches total length may be possessed provided the angler:

1. has in their possession a 2013 Bonus Striped Bass Voucher issued by the CT DEEP for each such fish possessed. Vouchers can be obtained at CT DEEP offices, Coastal State Parks, Selected Bait and Tackle Shops and other designated locations.
2. immediately upon retention of such fish, permanently record on the voucher in ink, the date of capture and length of fish harvested;.
3. retain the voucher with the fish until such fish is taken to the home or other location where the fish is to be consumed;
4. takes not more than two such fish per day regardless of the number of vouchers the angler may possess.

What are the regulations concerning this bonus striped bass fishery?

A minimum size slot limit (22 inches and less than 28 inches) and a creel limit of one (1) striped bass per voucher. The voucher is good for one (1) bonus striped bass. Two (2) bonus fish may be harvested per day. Open (valid) from May 1 – June 30, 2013. Voucher card must be filled out immediately upon harvest of a qualifying striped bass. Valid in Connecticut state waters only. The normal limit of two (2) striped bass 28 inches or greater may also be harvested.