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News Release
RI Department of Environmental Management
235 Promenade Street, Providence, RI 02908
(401) 222-2771 TDD/(401) 222-4462
For Release: March 21, 2008
Contact: Gail Mastrati 222-4700 ext. 2402
Stephanie Powell 222-4700 ext. 4418

DEM ANNOUNCES APRIL 12 OPENING DAY OF FISHING SEASON
More Than 70,000 Trout Being Stocked Throughout State

PROVIDENCE - The Department of Environmental Management's Division of Fish & Wildlife announces that the 2008 trout and general freshwater fishing season will begin at 6 a.m. on Saturday, April 12. (Opening day for Beach Pond in Exeter is April 19.) More than 20,000 anglers are expected to turn out at dawn on opening day.

Approximately 70,000 two-year-old hatchery raised brook, brown, and rainbow trout with an individual weight of one and a half pounds are being stocked by Division staff in more than 100 ponds and streams for opening day.

In addition to the six regular ponds that are restricted to children 14 years of age and younger, Cass Pond in Woonsocket and Slater Park Pond in Pawtucket will be open for children only for the first two days of the fishing season. A fishing derby for children in Woonsocket is being held at Cass Pond on Saturday, April 12.

A 2008 fishing license is required for anglers 15 years of age and older wishing to catch fish. A Trout Conservation Stamp is also required of anyone wishing to keep or possess a trout or to fish in a catch-and-release or 'fly-fishing only' area. Fishing licenses and the $5.50 Trout Conservation Stamp can be obtained at any city or town clerk's office or authorized agent such as most bait and tackle shops, Walmart, and Benny's. Licenses may also be obtained at DEM's Boat Registration and Licensing Office located at 235 Promenade Street in Providence. As an added convenience, anglers may also purchase their fishing licenses online via www.ri.gov, which can also be reached through the freshwater fisheries page on DEM's website.

License fees remain at $18 for Rhode Island residents and current members of the Armed Forces, $33 for a combination hunting and fishing license, $35 for non-residents, and $16 for a non-resident tourist three-consecutive-day license. Anglers over 65 must have a license, which for them is free, but do not need a trout stamp. The license is also free for anyone with a 100 percent disability.

A list of stocked ponds and other information of interest to anglers can be found on DEM's website, www.dem.ri.gov, by clicking on "Fish and Wildlife" under "Offices and Divisions," then choosing "Freshwater Fisheries," then "Trout Stocked Waters."

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For General Information 222-6800 • After Hours Emergencies 222-3070 • Disclaimer
rev. 4/11/08