CT Fishing Licenses and Local Tips

If you’re planning a fishing trip, we’re here to help! With Rogers Lake right across the street and plenty of great local spots nearby, we get lots of anglers stopping in for nightcrawlers—and asking about fishing licenses.

Here’s how to make your trip hassle-free:

Get Your CT Fishing License Instantly

If you don't have your license yet, applying for a fishing license in Connecticut is streamlined:

Online: Visit the DEEP Licensing page to get your digital fishing permit for inland and/or marine  instantly.

DEEP Licenses and permits

Who needs a license?

• Young Adults and Adults 16 and older require a current CT fishing license.
• Youth 15 and under do not need a license.
• Residents 65 and older qualify for free licenses.
• There are exemptions for some individuals with disabilities and active military members.
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​​2025 CT Resident Fishing License Fees
Inland Fishing License

• 16-17 :  $14
• Adult : $28

Marine Fishing License

• 16-17: $5​
• Adult: $10

(All Water Sport Fishing 16-17: $16, Adult: $32)
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Bait

​We stock LIVE nightcrawlers, the go-to bait for bass and trout—perfect for fishing at Rogers Lake. If you’re heading to the Connecticut River or Long Island Sound, pair your bait with squid or bunker to attract striped bass, bluefish, and flounder.
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What else have you had success with? Comment below.

​Free Fishing Days

Take advantage of these upcoming Free Fishing Days:

• Saturday, May 10, 2025: No license required.
• Sunday, June 15, 2025 & Saturday, August 9, 2025: Get a free 1-day license online (available 3 weeks ahead).

Even on Free Fishing Days, regular size limits and other regulations apply.
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All You Need - Locally

We’ve got you covered with nightcrawlers—the perfect food for freshwater fish—and all the essentials to make your time by the water stress-free. Stock up on folding chairs, coolers, bug spray, and more before you cast your line. Swing by Coffee’s Country Market next door for a wide selection of fresh sandwiches, drinks, and snacks to fuel your adventure. After all, happy anglers have the best stories to share later.

Looking for more fishing gear? Check out Black Hall Outfitters locally, in Old Lyme.

​Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, we’re here to help you have the best day possible. Tight lines and happy fishing! 🎣

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Helpful Links

CT.gov Fishing: Department of Energy & Environmental Protection (DEEP)
​Information, Licenses and Permits, and Current Regulations

Online Sportsman Licensing System: CT License Application
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Connecticut is Fishy: General info, places to fish, and specific fish with interactive maps of Connecticut fishing sites.

Places to fish
The following are some categories with links of places to fish in Connecticut

• Trout Parks
• Trout Management Areas/Lakes
• Atlantic Salmon Management Areas
• Kokanee Lakes
• Go Wild
• Fly Fishing Only Areas
• Bass Management Lakes
• Community Fishing Waters
• Family Friendly Inland waters
• Disabled Fishing Access
• No Boat, No Worries - freshwater shoreline access
• Coastal Access and Enhanced Opportunity Shoreline Fishing Locations
• Connecticut River Access

FISHBRAIN Rogers Lake: Rogers Lake Fishing Reports and more.

What else have you seen or caught? Comment below!

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🎣 ​Share Your Fishing Adventures with Us!

The memories start here—whether it's picking up nightcrawlers, celebrating a child's first catch, or swapping stories about the one that got away. We love hearing from you!

📸 Tag us on social media and let us be part of your fishing journey. Share your photos, stories, and tips in the comments below or in your posts.
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Facebook and Instagram @laysvillehardware