Block Island has a quiet reputation among serious anglers — quiet because locals prefer to keep it that way. The waters surrounding this seven-square-mile Rhode Island island are some of the best fishing grounds in the Northeast, sitting at the convergence of cold Labrador Current water and warmer Atlantic flows. That temperature break creates the kind of baitfish concentration that draws striped bass, bluefish, false albacore, and bluefin tuna in numbers that would surprise most visitors who come just for the beaches.
Whether you’ve got a fly rod, a conventional spinning setup, or you’ve never fished a day in your life, Block Island fishing is worth building part of your trip around.
What Fish Can You Catch Around Block Island?
Striped Bass
Striped bass are the main event. Block Island sits directly in the migratory path of the striper population that moves along the Atlantic coast each year, and the rocky shoreline — particularly the southwest corner of the island — funnels bait into ambush points that stripers use year after year. Fish in the 20–40 pound range are common. Larger fish over 50 pounds are caught here every season.
Best months: June through October, with a secondary run in late May for larger fish.
Bluefish
Bluefish arrive with the stripers and often outnumber them in August and early September. They hit hard and run fast — excellent on light tackle and among the easiest fish to hook for beginners. Blues hit surface lures aggressively, making for spectacular action.
Best months: July through September.
False Albacore (Little Tunny)
Albies show up in late August and stay through October. They’re fast, powerful, and notoriously picky — one of the most frustrating and rewarding fish to target on a fly rod. Block Island is one of the best albie destinations on the East Coast, drawing dedicated fly fishers from across the country.
Best months: Late August through October.
Bluefin Tuna
Offshore bluefin action has improved dramatically around Block Island in recent years. Boats targeting bluefin typically run 10–20 miles south or east of the island to the tuna grounds. This is a full-day offshore commitment, usually on a charter.
Best months: July through September.
Fluke (Summer Flounder)
Bottom fishing for fluke is popular inside the Great Salt Pond and around the harbor. Good option for families or beginners who want a more relaxed day on the water with a real chance of putting dinner in the cooler.
Best months: June through August.
Charter Boat Fishing on Block Island
Hiring a charter is the easiest entry point for anyone without their own boat. Most Block Island charters operate out of New Harbor (Great Salt Pond) and offer half-day and full-day trips targeting the species currently running.
What to expect on a charter:
- Half-day inshore trips typically run 4–5 hours targeting stripers and bluefish
- Full-day offshore trips for tuna run 8–10 hours
- Most charters are fully equipped — rods, reels, bait, and tackle included
- Limits on party size (usually 4–6 anglers per boat for inshore, smaller for offshore)
- Captains know the seasonal patterns and will put you on fish
Book in advance during peak season (July–August). Weekday openings are easier to find than weekends. Many charters fill weeks out during the height of summer.
Surf Casting from Shore
If you’d rather fish independently, Block Island’s shoreline offers serious surf casting opportunities — and it’s free.
Southwest Point
The island’s southwest corner is the most productive surf casting location on Block Island. Rocky structure holds bait, and the currents concentrate stripers from late spring through fall. Fish the moving tide — two hours before and after high tide are typically the most productive windows. Access via the Southwest Lighthouse road.
Mohegan Bluffs (South Shore)
The base of Mohegan Bluffs is accessible via the long wooden staircase and offers productive rocky shoreline fishing, particularly for bass and blues. Note: it’s a long climb back up with gear, so pack light.
Clay Head (North Shore)
The clay cliffs of the north shore have structure and current that holds fish earlier in the season when the water warms from the north. Good fly rod territory in calm conditions.
Crescent Beach / Fred Benson Town Beach
Better for fluke and smaller species from the sandy bottom. Occasional bluefish chases baitfish onto this beach in late summer.
What to bring for surf casting:
- 9–10 ft medium-heavy surf rod with 20–30 lb braid
- Plug bag with a selection of needlefish, Bombers, metal lures
- Headlamp (dawn and dusk are peak times)
- Waders for cooler months
Fishing from Kayak or Paddleboard
Kayak fishing has exploded in popularity around Block Island. The Great Salt Pond is protected and calm, making it ideal for beginners, while the outer shoreline offers serious kayak fishing for bass and blues. Several rental operations on the island rent fishing kayaks and basic tackle. Ask about water sports and kayak rentals when you arrive.
Rhode Island Fishing License
You need a Rhode Island recreational fishing license to fish in Rhode Island waters. As of 2026, licenses are available online through the Rhode Island DEM website. A freshwater and saltwater combo license is the most versatile option. Fees are modest — around $18 for residents, $33 for non-residents annually. Temporary 7-day licenses are also available.
Charter boat passengers typically fish under the captain’s charter boat license for inshore trips. Confirm this with your charter when booking.
Where to Get Bait and Gear on Block Island
Fishing supplies on Block Island are limited compared to the mainland — bring what you can. That said, a few shops carry basic terminal tackle, live and cut bait, and can point you toward what’s biting. Check in Old Harbor when you arrive. The Block Island ferry also runs from Point Judith, which has well-stocked tackle shops near the dock if you want to gear up before crossing.
When Is the Best Time to Fish Block Island?
| Month | Target Species | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| May | Large stripers (keeper season) | Cool water, pre-summer |
| June | Stripers, early blues | Excellent |
| July | Stripers, bluefish, tuna offshore | Peak season, crowded boats |
| August | Blues, albies arriving, tuna | Hot action, hot weather |
| September | Albies, stripers, blues | Best month for variety |
| October | Albies, late-run stripers | Uncrowded, fantastic fishing |
September and October are the local secret. Crowds thin out dramatically after Labor Day, accommodation prices drop, and the fishing is often better than midsummer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a fishing license to fish Block Island?
Yes. Rhode Island recreational licenses are required. Purchase online at the RIDEM website before your trip.
Can I fish from the ferry dock or harbor?
Casual fishing from public land is generally permitted. Check local regulations and posted signs.
Is Block Island good for fly fishing?
Yes — it’s one of the premier fly fishing destinations on the East Coast, especially for striped bass and false albacore in September and October.
What’s the best lure for Block Island stripers?
Needlefish plugs, Bombers, and white or chartreuse bucktail jigs in the 1–2 oz range are consistent producers. Match the hatch — when sand eels are running, go small and slim.
Can I bring fishing gear on the ferry?
Yes. Rods and tackle are allowed on Block Island ferries. Break down long rods into sections for easier transport.
