New Hampshire fishing guide

Welcome to your key source for all fishing-related information in New Hampshire. Discover not only the prime fishing spots but also learn about the diverse species inhabiting these waters. Stay informed about the latest fishing regulations and licensing requirements for fishing in New Hampshire

486 spots
30 fish
10 lakes
5 rivers

What kind of fish can you catch in New Hampshire

Below are 30 types of fish that can be caught in New Hampshire. The data have been collected based on fishing reports from New Hampshire and have undergone serious moderation. Explore the map of New Hampshire to find out where a particular type of fish is biting.

Lakes and reservoirs for fishing in New Hampshire

Below are the largest and most popular lakes, reservoirs, and bays for fishing in New Hampshire. Each New Hampshire body of water includes information on fish species, analytics, and a map with fishing spots

What rivers flow through New Hampshire?

Below is a list of rivers that flow through New Hampshire. Study the fishing map of the rivers to find out where and what kind of fish are in the river and when is the best time to catch them

Licenses for fishing in New Hampshire

For the most accurate and detailed information, and to purchase a fishing license online, please visit the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department website.

Category License Type Resident Price Non-Resident Price
Freshwater Fishing Annual $45.00 $63.00
  1-Day $10.00 $15.00
  3-Day - $28.00
  7-Day - $35.00
Senior Freshwater Fishing Annual $7.00 -
Recreational Saltwater Fishing Annual $11.00 $11.00
Clam (ages 6-67) Annual $30.00 -
Oyster (ages 6-67) Annual $30.00 -
Hunting/Freshwater Fishing Combination Annual $56.00 $151.00
Senior Hunting/Freshwater Fishing Combination Annual $7.00 -
Hunting* Annual $32.00 $113.00
Archery Annual $32.00 $83.00
Senior Archery Annual $3.00 -
Special Deer Archery Annual $26.00 $26.00
Muzzleloader Annual $16.00 $41.00
Senior Muzzleloader Annual $3.00 -
Pheasant Annual $31.00 $31.00
Bear Annual $16.00 $48.00
Wild Turkey Permit Annual (includes spring and fall) $16.00 $31.00
Migratory Waterfowl Annual $11.00 $11.00
Small-game Hunting* Annual - $53.00
  3-Day - $25.00

*Hunting licenses also require a $2.50 wildlife habitat fee. All license prices include a $1.00 agent fee and a $1.00 Fisheries Habitat Fee. A $2.00 transaction fee ($2.75 online) is charged for each license form.

Fishing Regulations in New Hampshire

Prohibited Gear and Fishing Methods
  • Use of explosives, poisons, or electrical devices for fishing is prohibited.
  • Fishing with nets, traps, or seines is allowed only with specific permits and in designated areas.
  • Use of live fish as bait is restricted in certain waters to 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 specific waters.
Catch Limits
  • Trout and Salmon: Daily limit varies by water body, typically 2-5 fish with size restrictions.
  • Bass (Largemouth and Smallmouth): Daily limit of 2, with a minimum length of 12 inches.
  • Crappie: Daily limit of 25, no size limit.
  • Catfish: Daily limit varies, generally no more than 5 fish.
  • Walleye: Daily limit of 4, with size restrictions in some waters.
  • Pike: Daily limit of 2, with a minimum size limit in some waters.
  • Panfish (Bluegill, Sunfish): Daily limit generally 25-50, depending on the species and location.
  • White Perch and Yellow Perch: Daily limit of 25 combined, no size limit.
  • Chain Pickerel: Daily limit of 10, no size limit.
  • Cusk: Daily limit of 1, no size limit.
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 and salmon.
  • 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 essential 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.
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