Rhode Island Fishing Guides

Freshwater Fishing In Rhode Island

Rhode Island is our smallest state. It only has a little over 1,000 acres of land and just five counties. With such a small area, it’s rather surprising that the state has so many major rivers and tributaries, along with numerous lakes and ponds. It might also surprise you to learn that Rhode Island has some pretty darn good freshwater fishing!

Rhode Islanders love their trout fishing. Brookies, browns, and rainbows can all be found in rivers and streams across the state, as well as in numerous lakes. Even so, the trout don’t generally get very large here. For example, the record rainbow weighed just eleven pounds, while the world record fish tipped the scales at over 42 pounds. It’s a similar story with browns and brookies. Of course, these smaller fish can still be scrappy and fun to catch. For best results, hire one of the experienced trout fishing guides.

Atlantic salmon have devoted followers in Rhode Island. Some of the best salmon waters in the state include Beach Pond, Barber Pond, and the Naugatuck River.

Like most places, Rhode Island has its share of bass anglers. The state record largemouth weighed in at 10 pounds, 6 ounces and came from Carbuncle Pond. Other waters with largemouth bass include 10-Acre Pond, Indian Lake, Johnson’s Pond, Wachaug Pond, Wilson’s Reservoir, Echo Lake, Worden’s Pond, and Turner Reservoir.

For smallmouth bass, try Wash Pond, where the state record fish, at almost six pounds, was caught. Other places to fish for smallies include Beach Pond, Stafford Pond, and Saugatucket Pond.

Fishing Guides In Rhode Island

The state really supports and promotes recreational fishing. For example, it offers “free fishing days” occasionally, for both residents and visitors. It also has numerous fishing programs for kids.

If you need a fishing guide, you’ll find scores available.

Other Places To Fish In Rhode Island

Aquidneck Island – This Narragansett Bay island has ten small ponds. Don’t let their size fool you, though. Largemouths weighing over six pounds are not uncommon, and even larger fish have been taken. Fishing is done from the banks, so you won’t need a boat.

Woonasquatucket Reservoir – In north-central Rhode Island, this 300-acre lake is on the Woonasquatucket River and is also known as “Stump Pond.” This is a great place to fish for bass and pike.

Tiogue Lake – This lake covers 200 acres in north-central Rhode Island. It supports healthy populations of trout, bass, catfish, and a variety of bream.

Trout streams and rivers - Rhode Island has scores of trout streams and rivers, including Beaver River, Moosup River, Ponaganset River, Wood River, Winsor Brook, Roaring Brook, Log House Brook, Branch River, Hunt River, and Clear River. Some streams and rivers are stocked with trout in the spring, while others are stocked in the spring and again in the fall.