NIANTIC, Conn. -- Plan to go saltwater fishing from the Connecticut shoreline or off of a vessel? Not without a license.

Licenses to go saltwater fishing haven't been required in the past, but that is likely to change.

Residents between the ages of 16 and 64 are now required to purchase a fishing license for $10 if they want to fish. For non-resident, the cost is $15.

Resident Pete Distasio said that if you like to fish like he does, it's worth it.

"I fish every day," he said. "I fish probably nine months out of the year -- out of a kayak, off the beach -- and I don't like it (the new law), but I'm not one of those guys who will fish one day and pay $10."

Party-boat fishing falls under the license of the captain, according to the Department of Environmental Protection.

DEP officials said the state Legislature passed the bill because federal agencies were going to require a saltwater fishing license. They said the state process makes it easier to manage.

The Suttons, of Manchester, said they're surprised by the legislation.

"If you're fishing the Thames River, you'll need a license 500 feet due north of the bridge," Brian Sutton said.

"I'm not going to need one," Frank Sutton said. "I'm going to be 65 in February. I'm exempt."

Those found saltwater fishing without a license will be fined $77, according to the DEP.

When asked if he thought a bill like this would happen, resident Mike LaFluer-Higganum said. "That's why I came down here today, and the information is on their desk. I'm not happy about it. I knew it was coming."

Though the law is supposed to take effect on June 15, it still needs to be signed by Gov. Jodi Rell. However, it will take effect once she has signed it.

Saltwater fishing licenses can be obtained at participating town halls, bait-and-tackle shops and DEP field offices.

Fishing licenses can also be purchased on the DEP Web site.