Vermont · Fishing regulations

Fishing regulations in Vermont.

Vermont is the Battenkill — historic wild brown trout water — plus Lake Champlain for multi-species fishing and a network of small mountain streams that hold native brook trout.

Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department · License: Anglers age 16 and older generally need a valid fishing license to fish in Vermont. Resident and non-resident licenses are sold online through the VFW and at most sporting goods retailers. Annual, multi-day, and lifetime licenses are typically available. Senior, military, and youth discounts apply in most cases. License costs and exact age thresholds change — verify with the VFW before purchase.

Freshwater

Brook trout, brown trout, rainbow trout, lake trout, landlocked salmon, smallmouth and largemouth bass, walleye, and northern pike across the streams and lakes. Lake Champlain is a multi-species fishery.

Rivers

The Battenkill is the historic wild brown trout river. The Lamoille, Winooski, Otter Creek, and Missisquoi hold mixed trout and bass. Connecticut River along the eastern border. Many small wild brook trout streams.

Special

Catch-and-release-only sections on the Battenkill. Lake Champlain has lake-specific rules and is shared with New York and Quebec. Atlantic salmon are catch-and-release-only.

Popular species

Brook trout · Brown trout · Smallmouth bass · Largemouth bass · Lake trout · Landlocked salmon · Walleye

State agency

Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department

Agency site →

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