Trout Stocking Program Expands to East Providence

EAST PROVIDENCE, RI—Opening day for the freshwater fishing season in Rhode Island officially begins at 6 a.m. on Saturday.

This year, the state Department of Environmental Management has stocked Ten Mile River in East Providence with trout as part of an expansion of its trout stocking program this year.

A total of 80,000 brook, brown and rainbow trout will be released into ponds and streams across Rhode Island in time for opening day. About 20,000 anglers each year take part in recreational freshwater fishing on opening day in Rhode Island every year, according to the DEM. About 175,000 recreational anglers over the age of 16 live in Rhode Island, according to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.

It's a big business, too, contributing $130 million to the local economy.

"Opening Day has a long tradition in Rhode Island,” said DEM Director Janet Coit. “It’s a time when families come together at their favorite fishing hole to share the thrill of reeling in a trout and to recharge and connect with nature. Freshwater fishing is an important part of our culture and economy in Rhode Island, and we’re proud to support it through our stocking program."

The new locations on the Ten Mile River, marked by white trout fishing signs, include the intersection of 114A and Hunts Mill Road and just below the John Hunt House at 65 Hunts Mill Road.

Visit DEM's website for a complete list of stocked waters. A fishing license and Trout Conservation Stamp are required to keep or possess a trout. Other regulations can be found HERE.