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Woonsocket Today
By the People, for the People
RI Freshwater Fisheries Updates and FAQs
Trout season opening, new fishing regulations, and answers to common questions
Apr. 11, 2026 at 12:00am
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Rhode Island's freshwater fishing regulations aim to balance public access with environmental conservation, as seen in this serene, abstracted scene.Woonsocket TodayThe Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) has released updates on freshwater fishing regulations and frequently asked questions ahead of the traditional opening day for trout season on the second Saturday in April. Key changes include the closure of Upper Melville Pond for a PFAS study, new catch-and-release regulations on the Beaver River, and reminders about fishing license requirements and trout stocking locations.
Why it matters
These updates are important for Rhode Island anglers to be aware of as they prepare for the start of the trout fishing season. The changes aim to protect sensitive trout populations, gather important environmental data, and ensure regulations are clearly communicated to the public.
The details
While freshwater fishing is open year-round for other species, waters that are stocked for trout are closed while DEM prepares for the traditional opening day. Upper Melville Pond in Portsmouth will be available for fishing from opening day on April 11 to May 3, but will then be closed from May 4 through July 2 for a collaborative study with the Rhode Island Department of Health on PFAS accumulation in stocked trout. New statewide regulations include designating the Beaver River in Richmond as a 'catch-and-release only' area to protect its wild brook trout population, and revising the 'children only' fishing ponds to restrict access for the first two days of trout season at Cass Pond in Woonsocket and Geneva Brook and Pond in North Providence.
- Upper Melville Pond will be open for fishing from April 11 to May 3.
- The PFAS study at Upper Melville Pond will take place from May 4 through July 2.
- The Beaver River has been removed from the trout stocking list and is now designated as a 'catch-and-release only' area.
- The 'children only' fishing ponds at Cass Pond and Geneva Brook and Pond will be restricted for the first two days of trout season.
The players
Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM)
The state agency responsible for managing Rhode Island's natural resources, including freshwater fisheries.
Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH)
The state agency collaborating with DEM on the PFAS study at Upper Melville Pond.
Town of Richmond
The local municipality where the Beaver River is located, which has identified the river as a priority area for wild brook trout habitat conservation.
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.
The takeaway
These updates highlight DEM's efforts to balance recreational fishing opportunities with environmental conservation, particularly for sensitive trout populations. The changes aim to protect natural resources, gather important data, and ensure regulations are clearly communicated to the public.
