Open fishing on the Black River

A change in state regulations that is sure to be welcomed by all the die-hard anglers out there.

News Release — Vermont Fish and Wildlife

November 11, 2014

Media Contact: Rich Kirn, (802) 485-7566

 MONTPELIER, Vt. – The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department is reminding anglers of the new year-round fishing opportunities now available to anglers on various waterways throughout the state. In effect since the beginning of this year, revised state regulations have opened up 11 new river sections to catch-and-release trout fishing with artificial flies or lures outside of the normal trout season.

The change in regulation has resulted in over 70 additional miles of river now being open to year-round trout fishing.

“The regulations were intended to provide expanded fishing opportunities for trout while limiting the potential impact to populations,” said Rich Kirn, fisheries biologist with Vermont Fish & Wildlife. “The changes will give interested anglers the opportunity to take advantage of any mild days in late fall and early spring.”

A section of the Walloomsac River in Bennington was also designated as a trophy trout stream with the changes and is being stocked with two-year old brown and rainbow trout – both with a daily limit of two per day.

Additionally, the state’s bass catch-and-release open water angling opportunities (not ice fishing) – also with artificial flies and lures only – have been expanded to include all lakes, ponds and reservoirs not listed as “seasonally closed waters.”

A complete list of seasonally closed waters is available on the Vermont Fish & Wildlife website, www.vtfishandwildlife.com. Under the “Fishing” tab, click on “Law Digest and Guide” for more information.

Bob Shannon, owner of The Fly Rod Shop and Fly Fish Vermont Guide Service in Stowe, says the expanded fishing opportunities have been appreciated by anglers.

“From the feedback I’ve gotten, many local anglers – primarily the hardcore, avid type – are really excited about the increased options in terms of fishable waters,” said Shannon. “Additionally, we’ve seen a rise in the non-resident interest in these opportunities and that should certainly provide a boost in visits from those outside of Vermont.”

The sections of streams listed below are open to year-round trout fishing according to the following rules:

• Only artificial flies or lures may be used, except during the open season for trout (2nd Sat. in April – Oct. 31).
• Catch and release only (trout must be immediately released where caught), except during the open season for trout.
 • During open season for trout, follow normal size restrictions, daily limits and possession limits. ––

Black River: From the Connecticut River boundary upstream to the Howard Hill Road Bridge in Cavendish.