Fishing Licenses/Hunting Licenses
The following is summarized from the websites of the Connecticut State Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP):
www.ct.gov/deep and http://www.ct.gov/deep/cwp/view.asp?a=2696&q=322688&deepNav_GID=1630
FISHING LICENSES:
- Fishing licenses are required for anyone 16 years or older fishing in the Inland District of Connecticut.
- Licenses can be obtained from any Town Clerk or authorized agent.
- Licenses are issued on a calendar year basis and expire on December 31st.
- Fees for licenses are charged for Connecticut residents and non-residents.
- Senior Citizens age 65 or older may obtain a free Lifetime License.
- People with disabilities or loss/use of a limb can also be issued a free license.
HUNTING LICENSES:
- Firearms Hunting licenses are required for hunting in Connecticut.
- Licenses can be obtained from any Town Clerk or authorized agent.
- Licenses are valid for one calendar year.
- Fees are charged for Connecticut residents and non-residents. Senior Citizens age 65 or older may obtain a free Lifetime License. People with disabilities or loss/use of a limb can also be issued a free license.
FISHING/HUNTING LICENSES:
- Fishing and Small Game Firearms Hunting licenses are issued for a fee for Connecticut residents and non-residents.
- Active members of the Armed Forces may obtain licenses at the same rate as Connecticut residents.
- Applicants must possess an existing resident firearms hunting license issued within the past five years or certification from Connecticut’s Conservation Education/Firearms Safety program, or its equivalent before they can apply for a combination fishing/hunting license.
REPLACING LOST LICENSES:
- If you have purchased your license online go to the Connecticut Online Sportsmen Licensing System and print out your license. You can also go to a licensing vendors or DEEP office to have your license reprinted.
ONLINE PURCHASES OF LICENSES:
- Fishing and hunting licenses, permits and tags can be purchased online. Connecticut residents need to register for a Connecticut Conservation ID in order to make online purchases. Further information on Connecticut’s Online Sportsmen Licensing System can be found at the DEEP website: https://www.ct.wildlifelicense.com/internetsales
TO FIND PROVIDERS IN CONNECTICUT’S COMMUNITY RESOURCES DATABASE:
Search by service name: Records/Licenses/Permits
Fishing Season Opened Early in Public Waters to Encourage Social Distancing
On March 24, 2020, Governor Ned Lamont issued an Executive Order opening lakes, ponds, rivers and streams to fishing statewide. Opening the fishing season early helps to limit community spread of COVID-19, by eliminating the large crowds that often accompany the traditional Opening Day of fishing in April. During this time of social distancing, fishing should be enjoyed as a solitary experience or with members of your immediate household, not as a group activity. Further information can be found at https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/Fishing/COVID-19-Updates-Fisheries-Division
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SOURCES: Connecticut State Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP)
PREPARED BY: 211/nl
CONTENT LAST REVIEWED: March/2021
