#responsiblerecreation

Outdoor recreation including hunting, fishing, and hiking is a great way to relieve stress and spend time with loved ones during this difficult time.

It is up to all Rhode Islanders to be responsible while participating in these activities, now more than ever. There are a few things to keep in mind to make sure you are being safe while fishing in the Ocean State this year.

If you need to purchase freshwater or saltwater fishing licenses for you and your family, visit RIO.RI.GOV to do so safely at home. When you head out to the lake, stream, or ocean, only travel and fish with members of your household. If others are fishing at the same spot, maintain a distance of at least 6 feet, or about the length of a fishing rod. If the area is too crowded to keep your distance, try fishing somewhere else or coming back another day.

Make sure to pick up any litter you produce, including fishing line. Recycling containers for monofilament and fluorocarbon line can be found at bait and tackle shops, boat ramps, piers, and other fishing access points. Remember to cut it into pieces less than a foot long before placing it in a designated receptacle.

As always, make sure to follow all of Rhode Island’s fishing rules and guidelines to ensure that everyone can have a fun, safe time fishing this season and in the future!