Yes, spearguns are legal in Rhode Island for recreational and commercial use under specific regulations enforced by the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RIDEM). Compliance with licensing, seasonal restrictions, and gear specifications is mandatory to avoid penalties. Recent 2026 amendments to RIDEM’s Marine Fisheries Regulations tighten oversight on speargun dimensions and prohibited species targeting.
Key Regulations for Spearguns in Rhode Island
- Licensing Requirements: A valid Rhode Island recreational fishing license is required for speargun use in state waters. Commercial harvesters must obtain additional permits under RIDEM’s Commercial Fishing Regulations.
- Seasonal and Species Restrictions: Spearguns are prohibited during closed seasons for finfish (e.g., striped bass, tautog) and may not target species listed under the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission moratoria. RIDEM’s 2026 updates explicitly ban spearguns for lobster harvesting.
- Gear Specifications: Spearguns must comply with RIDEM’s maximum length (48 inches) and mechanical propulsion limits. Use of scuba gear while operating spearguns is restricted to licensed divers under R.I. Gen. Laws § 20-18-15.