2026 Fishing Season Preview and Expectations

The 2026 fishing season for Rhode Island fishing charters potentially has some new regulations in the making for Seabass size and bag limits. While anglers have been catching numerous Seabass last year,
It was a bit challenging to limit out on the 16 inch fish until later in the season such as  November and December for those who braved the weather that time of year. There is a possibility of the size limit being reduced to 15.5 inches which would make a big difference based on what we and many anglers were catching and releasing last year. Rhode Island Striped Bass fishing regulations should remain the same with the 28-31 inch slot for keeper fish and 1 fish per person. Last year striped bass  fishing was very good in May and June and then it slowed. During May and June there was great top water or light tackle angling with trophy size bass mixed in which were released but great action was enjoyed. I anticipate similar results of Block Island Striped Bass fishing this year as well. On another note, great catches of Bonito and False Albacore were present in our Rhode Island waters as well. In fact, Captain Sheriff’s Fishing Charters landed more Bonito last year than in several previous years combined.
I believe that trend will continue for 2026 fishing season. Slammer Block Island Bluefish were mixed in during that May and June Striped Bass fishing activity as well. In fact, the captain broke down and purchased a Traeger smoker grill to enjoy some of those Bluefish fillets. We at the Rhode Island Party and Charter Association certainly hope for a more productive Block Island Fluke fishing this year. Fluke fishing Rhode Island has been off the last couple years and maybe we are due for improved Fluke fishing throughout our Rhode island waters this year. Bluefin Tuna was very good and in reach for most boats over 23 feet while it lasted before being shut down temporarily due to the over fishing. Captain Sheriffs Fishing Charters is geared up for trolling and light spinning tackle jigging Bluefin and Yellowfin Tuna in the 25-40 mile offshore range when they frequent our Rhode Island waters. Last but not least, Rhode Island Tautog fishing in the fall was very good with some 10 plus pound fish coming aboard. We anticipate that great Rhode Island Fall Tautog fishing action for 2026 as well again