Rhode Island

Discover Rhode Island, an exciting destination for leisure opportunities of every description. Located in the heart of New England, Rhode Island offers urban excitement, rural tranquility, and of course, 400 miles of winding coastline.

Water Sports in Rhode Island

The heart of Rhode Island is Narragansett Bay, a sparkling body of gentle ocean water which is considered the state's greatest natural resource. Bountiful fishing and shellfishing, challenging sailing conditions, quiet coves and wide, sandy beaches make the bay ideal for water sports. For more than 50 years, 12-meter yachts competed on the bay for sailing's prestigious America's Cup, earning host city Newport the nickname "Sailing Capital of the World."
With over 400 miles of coastline, it's no wonder that boating is one of Rhode Islander's favorite pastimes. Each season, more than 100 boating related events are held on the Rhode Island and Block Island sounds and Narragansett Bay. Maritime events and attractions include weekly yacht club regattas, trans-Atlantic ocean races, canoe and kayaking tours, international boat shows and nautical museums.

Fishing in Rhode Island

Saltwater fishing is a leading sport in Rhode Island, with giant bluefin tuna, marlin and swordfish the prized catches. Striped bass a local favorite. The Ocean State offers in-shore surf and rock casting, bottom fishing in protected bay and shoreline areas, in addition to exciting off-shore game fishing. Fresh water fishing in natural and stocked areas can be found throughout the state. The scenic Wood and Pawcatuck Rivers offer premier trout fishing throughout spring, summer and autumn. Other fresh water species such as large mouth bass, northern pike and perch are abundant in Rhode Island's many ponds and lakes. Trout season opens annually on the second Saturday of April at sunrise.
From shore or boat, Rhode Island is a fisherman's paradise. The diversity and abundance of game fish found in Rhode Island waters, combined with the ease of accessibility of Rhode Island's shoreline provides angling excitement throughout the year!
Bluefish and Striped Bass are the most common sport fish, both inshore and offshore. The bluefish, considered by many to be the finest fighting fish in the Atlantic, can be caught May through November. These voracious feeders average 4 to 6 pounds, with 11 to 15 pounders not uncommon, especially in the fall. Equally revered is the striped bass. Found all along our shores, particularly in rocky areas and in estuaries, salt ponds and rivers, this fighter can reach up to 65 pounds, with many 40+ pounders caught annually. For offshore action, anglers can pursue several species of tuna, shark, and cod. Also, prized billfish such as white and blue marlin and swordfish are caught annually. What makes Rhode Island offshore fishing so good is its relative closeness to the canyon fishing on the fertile Continental Shelf, allowing more time for fishing and less time spent traveling. From beginners in the sport, to experts seeking big game species, or to ultra-light tackle and fly rod enthusiasts looking for world records - Rhode Island has it all! Whether in the tranquil waters of Narragansett Bay, in the surf of Block Island Sound, or in the deep Atlantic, anglers will find year round pleasure in the abundant saltwaters of the Ocean State.

Freshwater Fishing in Rhode Island

Anglers seeking freshwater fishing action don't have to look far while in Rhode Island. Rhode Island's many rivers, lakes, and ponds provide a wide variety of freshwater game fish such as Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, and Crappie. Trout and Landlocked Salmon are stocked in waters throughout the state. Scenic rivers such as the Wood, Pawcatuck, Moosup, and Falls located in Southern Rhode Island, offer premier trout fishing throughout the spring, summer, and fall.

Biking in Rhode Island

Rhode Island is the perfect place to cycle. Because of the state's compact size, a bicycle can not only provide recreation and exercise; but it can also be a practical means of transportation. The diverse natural beauty of the Ocean State is another benefit for the bicycle enthusiast.

Hunting in Rhode Island

Officially known as The Ocean State, Rhode Island's land mass actually encompasses a tremendous variety of natural habitats. From coastal environments and farmland, to upland forests and swamps, these areas provide the habitat necessary to maintain healthy and diverse wildlife populations. The 46,000 acres of public lands which are available for fishing and hunting equal about 7% of the state's total land area. Hunting opportunities include white-tailed deer, wild turkey, ruffed grouse, woodcock, pheasant, dove, waterfowl and small game. Additionally, Rhode Island 's license fees are a terrific bargain for both resident and nonresident hunters alike.