What kind of fish can you catch in Vermont
Below are 21 types of fish that can be caught in Vermont. The data have been collected based on fishing reports from Vermont and have undergone serious moderation. Explore the map of Vermont to find out where a particular type of fish is biting.
Lakes and reservoirs for fishing in Vermont
Below are the largest and most popular lakes, reservoirs, and bays for fishing in Vermont. Each Vermont body of water includes information on fish species, analytics, and a map with fishing spots
Licenses for fishing in Vermont
You can find more information and make purchases at Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department - License Center.
| Category |
License Type |
Resident Price |
Non-Resident Price |
| Fishing |
Annual |
$26 |
$52 |
| |
3-Year |
$76 |
- |
| |
5-Year |
$134 |
$264 |
| |
Lifetime (Ages 0-1) |
Free |
- |
| |
Lifetime (Ages 2-64) |
$310 |
- |
| |
Lifetime (Ages 65+) |
$35 |
- |
| |
1-Day |
- |
$21 |
| |
3-Day |
$11 |
$23 |
| |
7-Day |
- |
$31 |
| Youth Fishing |
(Ages 15-17) |
$8 |
$15 |
| Combination (Fishing and Hunting) |
Annual |
$47 |
$143 |
| |
5-Year |
$229 |
$709 |
| |
Youth (Under age 18) |
$12 |
$30 |
Fishing Regulations in Vermont
Prohibited Gear and Fishing Methods
- Use of explosives, poisons, or electrical devices for fishing is illegal.
- Fishing with nets, traps, or seines is restricted to specific permits and designated areas.
- Use of live fish as bait is limited in certain waters to protect native species and prevent the spread of invasive species.
- Snagging fish is not allowed except in designated areas during specific seasons.
- Spearing and bowfishing are permitted for certain species in specified waters.
Catch Limits
- Trout (Brook, Brown, Rainbow, and Lake): Daily limit varies by area, typically 2-6 fish with size restrictions.
- Bass (Largemouth and Smallmouth): Daily limit of 5, with a minimum length of 10-12 inches.
- Walleye: Daily limit of 3-8, size restrictions vary by water body.
- Pike: Daily limit of 5, with size restrictions in some areas.
- Panfish (Bluegill, Perch, Crappie): No daily limit, no size limit for most waters.
- Catfish: Daily limit varies, often 8-15, with no size limit.
- Salmon: Daily limit varies, generally 2 fish, with size and seasonal restrictions.
- Muskellunge: Daily limit of 1, minimum length of 36 inches.
- Lake Sturgeon: Catch-and-release only in all waters.
- Smelt: Limits vary by area, with some waters having specific restrictions.
Restrictions on Access to Water Bodies
- Access to some waters may be restricted for environmental conservation or public safety reasons.
- Fishing on private property requires explicit permission from the landowner.
- Special regulations for fishing in state parks and wildlife refuges.
- No fishing zones enforced around certain infrastructures like dams and fish hatcheries.
- Seasonal access restrictions in certain areas for fish spawning and habitat management.
Zones of Special Regulation
- Catch-and-release areas for certain species, especially trout.
- Areas with gear restrictions, such as artificial lures only or fly fishing zones.
- Slot limits for bass and other species in certain lakes and rivers.
- Special regulations in waters with high fishing pressure or ecological sensitivity.
- Trophy fisheries with enhanced size and bag limits in selected areas.
Protection of Rare Species
- Fishing for endangered or threatened species is strictly prohibited.
- Special regulations in habitats of rare or sensitive aquatic species.
- Research fishing for rare species requires special permits.
- Reporting accidental catches of rare species is important for conservation efforts.
- Areas with significant ecological value may have additional fishing restrictions.
Seasonal Restrictions
- Closed seasons for specific species during spawning or migration periods.
- Ice fishing regulations, including shelter and gear restrictions, during winter months.
- Seasonal closures in sensitive ecological areas for species protection and habitat restoration.
- Temporary closures during environmental events or for population studies.
- Special regulations for early and late fishing seasons in certain areas.
Most popular cities for fishing in Vermont
The largest and most popular fishing cities in Vermont. Cities in Vermont include information on fishing, as well as a map with fishing spots. Explore the cities to know what fish are caught and in which bodies of water.
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