Rhode Island Fishing Report- January 26, 2023

Rhode Island Fishing Report

The Frances Fleet in Point Judith has been running trips for cod whenever the weather cooperates. They got out a handful of times this week, and while the fishing remains challenging, they are finding some nice keeper cod on most trip. Both jigs and bait have been producing some nice cod catches, and weights have varied as they’ve been both drifting and anchoring at times. To check on the schedule for upcoming trips and to make reservations check out their website or call the office.  

Ralph, at Crafty One Customs had said that anglers have still been taking advantage of an ok holdover striped bass bite in the Upper Bay. That bite should continue to hold strong as long as it’s not too cold, and saltwater anglers can also look to some solid cod action on the days in which the weather cooperates. He also reported that freshwater anglers have taken advantage of the lakes and ponds opening up and have been finding a good largemouth bite on jigs and jerkbaits. They will be opening back up in February, which is a great time to see them and get your orders in for the upcoming season.  

Elisa, from Snug Harbor Marina reports that many local anglers have been chasing holdover stripers, although the bite has remained a bit slower than in years past. A few decent fish are being picked up here and there, but you have to work for them. The cod bite has slowed down a bit, but when the headboats get a decent day to run, they are finding some nice fish.  

Dustin, at RI Kayak Fishing Adventures, is still finding plenty of freshwater opportunities, thanks to the continued mild winter. The trout and Sebago salmon bite has remained steady, although will probably need a few days for the flows to settle. Fly, lure, and bait presentation have all been getting the job done, and you can use the water conditions to dictate your approach/presentation. Largemouth have become a bit more lethargic, but slowly presented baits and jigs have been getting the job done. Holdover striped bass anglers are still reporting a slower bite than previous years, but enough action in the usual spots to keep you busy until Spring arrives. Most of the fish have been schoolies, but it is still fun nonetheless. Head over to rikfa.com to book your kayak and/or shore fishing trip today! 

• Want to get in on the bite? Find an OTW-approved Charter Fishing Captain in Rhode Island

Rhode Island Fishing Forecast

Signs of a February cooldown are starting to get more encouraging for anglers hoping for ice, but in the meantime, the mild winter continues, and so do the wintertime open water fishing opportunities.   

Rhode Island saltwater anglers saw less cooperation from mother nature this week, but when anglers were able to get out to the cod grounds, they are generally finding some strong catches. Holdover striped bass fishing has picked up a bit, but it still remains better than usual for this time of year. Ideally, we start to see even more holdover action, with a few more sunny days and some cleaning water. Recent trout and Sebago Salmon stockings have produced good catches for anglers working the rivers and streams. The largemouth bass, pickerel, and panfish bite is also going strong, with pretty much all bodies of water still clear of ice.