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Freshwater Fishing in Rhode Island
Rhode Island Fishing at a Glance
Despite its small size, Rhode Island has over 200 ponds and lakes, as well as countless rivers and streams, there’s no shortage of places to fish in Rhode Island. And because the state is so small, you can easily explore all of its different fishing spots in just a few days.
Rhode Island’s freshwater fishing regulations are pretty simple. The state requires a fishing license for anyone over the age of 16, and there are a few other rules and regulations to be aware of before heading out on the water. But that’s all you need to get started.
Rhode Island is home to several rare fish species, and conservation is important. It’s also kept well stocked with trout, bass, and salmon giving you the option to choose between wild or hatched species, depending on where you’re fishing and what time of year it is.
Some of the most popular places to fish include the Pawtucket River, the Blackstone River, and Narragansett Bay. But really, any body of water in the state is worth exploring if you’re looking to catch some fish!
Rhode Island ranks #41 in the U.S. for fishing licenses per capita and has a good number of local fishing enthusiasts with over 5.11% of the population having fishing licenses.
Key Insights
- Rhode Island has over 200 ponds and lakes, as well as rivers and streams to fish in.
- Fishing regulations in Rhode Island are simple, requiring a fishing license for anyone over 16.
- Rhode Island is home to rare fish species and is kept well-stocked with trout, bass, and salmon.
- Popular fishing spots in Rhode Island include the Pawtucket River, Blackstone River, and Narragansett Bay.
- Rhode Island ranks #41 in the U.S. for fishing licenses per capita, but still has a good number of local fishing enthusiasts with over 5.11% of the population having fishing licenses.
Table of Contents
Estimated Fishing Enthusiasts
| Population: | 1,097,379 |
|---|---|
| Fishing Enthusiasts | 56,050 |
| Fishing License % | 5.11% |
| Hunters Rank | 41 |
The state of Rhode Island is mostly private land with just 9.14% of acres considered public land -ranking #26 amongst all states.
Land Types (Acres)
| Acres | % | Rank | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total | 668,800 | ||
| Public | 61,160 | 9.14% | 26 |
| Private | 605,840 | 90.59% | 23 |
| Tribal | 1,800 | 0.27% | 20 |
Rhode Island Fishing Licenses & Requirements
For the most accurate and updated information on fishing licenses and requirements, it’s always a good idea to check the Rhode Island DNR. We’ve provided their contact information and other helpful information for your convenience here.
Rhode Island DNR
235 Promenade Street
Providence, RI 02908-5767
- (401) 222-6800
In Rhode Island, fishing brings with it a plethora of aquatic delights! Trout and salmon are the classic options, but bass, sturgeon, and pike all make great choices for those looking to tap into their inner angler. Trout can be found darting between riverbanks and streams while salmon prefer larger bodies of water. Bass, being able to survive in either freshwater or saltwater environments, bring a great deal of versatility to the table. But nothing quite compares to the thrill of laboriously searching out those lurking monsters-of-the-deep – like sturgeon – that many consider to be the ultimate prize when it comes to fishing in RI. Then there’s the pike who’s long slender body makes for perfect camouflage among weed beds. No matter what type of fishing you’re after, Rhode Island has something for all anglers.
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Fishing private land in Rhode Island
Fishing on private land in Rhode Island has some real advantages over public lakes, rivers, streams, and ponds *if you can get access. For instance, there’s nothing like having a quiet lake all to yourself and oftentimes there are simply more fish available to catch, because they haven’t been fished out. There are generally more processes for access private land for hunting than fishing, though some similar methods exist. For instance, you can sometimes join a fishing club in Rhode Island or if you have the money, it may be possible to rent some private land for fishing. Another option is to knock on doors or work your contacts in an area to see if a landowner would let you fish for the day or possibly be open to a longer term arrangement.
Fortunately Wing It is simplifying land access for fishing, hunting, camping, and more. We’re adding new land every day and if we have some in your area, you’ll see some great options below.
1. Narragansett Bay
2. Block Island Sound
3. Rhode Island Sound
4. The Sakonnet River
5. The Pawcatuck River
Fishing private land in Rhode Island
Fishing on private land in Rhode Island has some real advantages over public lakes, rivers, streams, and ponds *if you can get access. For instance, there’s nothing like having a quiet lake all to yourself and oftentimes there are simply more fish available to catch, because they haven’t been fished out. There are generally more processes for access private land for hunting than fishing, though some similar methods exist. For instance, you can sometimes join a fishing club in Rhode Island or if you have the money, it may be possible to rent some private land for fishing. Another option is to knock on doors or work your contacts in an area to see if a landowner would let you fish for the day or possibly be open to a longer term arrangement.
Fortunately Wing It is simplifying land access for fishing, hunting, camping, and more. We’re adding new land every day and if we have some in your area, you’ll see some great options below.