Fluke Fishing in Rhode Island

What Fluke Like

• Fluke are a saltwater species most commonly fished from boats to access the sandy-bottomed areas where fluke are most likely to nestle themselves. In Rhode Island, there are many charters available at reasonable rate in small fishing ports dotting the coastline. There are several surf fishing spots where fluke can be taken, as well. Fluke like sandy bottoms, surf, inlets, bays and the mouths of tidal rivers, usually in waters of 10 to 50 feet. Catches tend to be more productive in warmer weather.
  
  

Most Common Fishing Methods

• Jigging is the most common methods of fishing for fluke. Jigging entails weighting your line about 10 feet from your lure or jig and casting it to hit bottom. The methodology for fluke jigging is pretty much the same, whether in New Jersey or Rhode Island or using live bait or lures. You can jig fast, slow or just whenever you feel like jerking the bait upward then letting it come back to rest. For live bait, fluke like killies and spearing, fished like jigs. Some fishermen recommend attaching white pork rind at the end of the hook so that it will flutter as you jig while others use a second lure on the same line as a "teaser" -- to get the fluke's attention and then have the fish take the primary, closer jig. Often, anglers catch as many fluke on the teaser as they do on the primary bait.
  
  

Surf Fishing

• With only about 20 miles of coastline suitable for surf fishing, there are basically three sandy and weedy areas where surf fishermen report success. The Watch Hill Light House and Napatree Point share different ends of the same beach. The east side of the lighthouse and its outbuildings planted into sand bars provide excellent cover for fluke. The best time for surf fishing is two hours before and two hours after high tide has slackened. The Fresh Pond Rocks at Ningret Refuge can also provide some promising fishing. The spot is aptly named for the shoreline rocks, where you will likely find yourself perched seeking a suitable casting spot. The best time is mid-tide, as high tide tends to be too turbulent. At Weekapaug Breachway, beware the rocks spread among the sandy waters.
  
  

Charters

• Charter trips are available from the far south of the state, outside of Westerly, to the northernmost fishing village of North Kingstown, where there are numerous fluke fishing spots in the cove just offshore. Among the more popular departure points are Point Judith, Watch Hill, Wickford, Wakefield and Newport. Newport is teeming with charters. The most popular Fluke fishing destinations are Narragansett Bay, Montauk and Block Island. Montauk is particularly popular in the fall.
  
  

Licenses and Regulations

• Licensing is required Note that whether at sea or shore, the minimum fluke size is 19.5 inches and the season runs May 1 through Dec. 31. Anglers may keep six fish per day. Anglers must have saltwater fishing license. Licenses are available online and at authorized tackle shops throughout the state.