Rhode Island Fishing Report
The Frances Fleet in Point Judith got back on the grounds this week for the first time in a while and reported some slower cod action. They are going to use the upcoming windy week to take care of some mechanical issues that just popped up, but they hope to find more good fishing as we head into March. 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 has been busy getting customers rod and reel orders squared up before the season, while also getting ready for show season. In terms of fishing opportunities, there are still a good deal of options across the state, but reports have been quieter due to the cooler weather this week. Holdover striped bass are still in and around the rivers and should start making their way to the upper reaches of the bay shortly. The few freshwater anglers that made it out this week have had plenty opportunities for trout, bass, pike and panfish. The shop is currently open Wednesday through Friday from 9-6 and Saturday from 9 -3. Next week they will be busy packing for the New England Saltwater Fishing Show in Providence, which runs the weekend of March 10th.
Elisa, from Snug Harbor Marina reports that a few local anglers continue to target holdover striped bass in the local rivers and salt ponds, and they are finding a bit more success than earlier in the season. The fishing certainly isn’t red hot, but things appear to be improving. The DEM has continued to stock several lakes and ponds with trout and salmon, which has resulted in some very solid winter fishing. Fishing will close in trout stocked waters on February 28th until opening day, so be sure to try and squeeze another trip in if you can! They will also be attending the NE Saltwater Fishing show from March 10th to the 12th, so be sure to come say hello if you can get up there!
Dustin, at RI Kayak Fishing Adventures, had a bit of a slower week, as the winds increased and the temperatures did the opposite, but there are still plenty of fishing opportunities. Holdover striped bass and white perch fishing has remained solid. The trout and Atlantic salmon fishing has remained very consistent for most anglers, so try to cash in before the trout waters close at the end of the month. Lakes and ponds across the state are all devoid of ice and largemouth anglers are reporting more bass activity. If you’re considering kayak fishing, Dustin reminds anglers to wear a dry suit, as the water temperatures are still near frigid. Opportunities and target species will increase as we get closer to spring, so head over to rikfa.com to book your kayak and/or shore fishing trip today!
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Rhode Island Fishing Forecast
The closest thing to winter weather that we have had in a while might be on the horizon, but it doesn’t limit the extraordinary amount of late February open water opportunities.
Holdover striped bass reports have continued to slowly improve, so things portend well for the upcoming weeks, with the days getting longer and the river herring arrival on the horizon. The cod reports from Rhode Island have quieted down a bit due to some weather/lack of interest, but look to that to rebound in March, which is historically a strong month for this fishery. The winter trout stockings of trout and salmon have continued to pay dividends, with strong reports from across the state. The Rhode Island trout waters will be closing at the end of the month, so be sure to squeeze one more trip in if you can. Basically, all of the fresh bodies of water are free of ice and will provide ample opportunities for bass, pickerel, and panfish when the trout waters shut down.