Lobster/Crab Regulations

Name: eRegulations
Price range: $

Front-facing view of a live American lobster with large claws extended, commonly found in the North Atlantic and important to commercial fishing. — The American lobster is a vital species in New England's commercial fishing industry, recognized for its large claws and hard shell. Found in cold Atlantic waters, it's both ecologically and economically important.

Recreational Lobster License

Available to Rhode Island residents only
Allows for personal use only (not for sale)

Types of licenses available:

Lobster
Non-Commercial Pot License	$40.00 yr
Non-Commercial Diver License	$40.00 yr

Licenses can be obtained through the Office of Boat Registration and Licensing located at 235 Promenade Street, Providence, RI 02908.

All lobsters must be measured IMMEDIATELY.
Those measuring less than 3-3/8"carapace length must be returned immediately to the water from which taken.
The POSSESSION of egg-bearing or v-notched lobsters is prohibited.
Mandatory v-notching of all egg-bearing females in LCMA 2 (includes all RI state waters).
No person shall raise or unduly disturb any lobster pot or trap within the territorial waters of this State between the hours of one (1) hour after sundown and one (1) hour before sunrise.
Recreational possession limit for licensed residents:
- Pots – 5 pots/recreational license
- Divers – 8 lobsters/day

Front view of a blue crab with claws raised, displaying its blue-tinted legs and shell, commonly found in Atlantic coastal waters. — The blue crab, known for its bright blue claws and olive-green shell, is a key species in Atlantic and Gulf Coast ecosystems and a popular target for both commercial and recreational fishing.

Blue Crabs

State Residents Only – no license needed

All Blue Crabs measuring less than 5" spike to spike shall be returned to the water immediately.
No person shall possess, take, or attempt to take more than 25 blue crabs from any of the waters in this state.
The POSSESSION of egg-bearing crabs is prohibited.

**This is only a brief summary of the Rhode Island Division of Marine Fisheries regulations. For more detailed information or to view the full regulations, visit the RIDFW Marine Fisheries Regulations page.**