Rhode Island · Rhode Island Coast
COD FISHING
IN BLOCK ISLAND
Block Island is a solid destination for cod fishing. Book a charter and target cod with local experts.
About Cod Fishing in Block Island
Atlantic cod is a historic New England species that shaped the region's culture and economy. Found over rocky bottom and wrecks, cod fishing peaks in the colder months when these bottom dwellers move into accessible depths on Stellwagen Bank and other nearshore grounds.
Atlantic Cod are the historic fish that built New England — the species that drew European settlers to the New World and fueled a fishing industry for centuries. These cold-water bottom fish are found over rocky substrate, wrecks, and ledges, primarily in winter and spring when water temperatures drop. Cod have a mottled brown-green body with a prominent chin barbel and three dorsal fins. Their firm, flaky white flesh is considered some of the finest eating fish in the world and remains a staple of New England cuisine.
Scientific name: Gadus morhua
Cod Seasonal Calendar — Block Island
Month-by-month availability for cod in Block Island, RI.
How to Catch Cod in Block Island
Techniques & Bait
Bottom fishing with diamond jigs (8-16 oz) bounced on rocky bottom in 60-200+ feet of water is the traditional technique. Tipping the jig with a strip of squid, clam, or fish belly increases effectiveness. Baited cod rigs (high-low rigs with size 6/0-8/0 hooks baited with clams, squid, or cut fish) fished on the bottom over wrecks and rocky structure produce consistent catches. Jigging with Norwegian-style cod jigs and butterfly jigs is effective in strong current. Fish Stellwagen Bank, Jeffreys Ledge, and deep-water wrecks for the best action.
Recommended Tackle
Medium-heavy to heavy conventional rod (5'6"-6'6"), loaded with 40-65 lb braid, 50-80 lb fluorocarbon leader. Heavy diamond jigs or cod rigs with 8-16 oz sinkers. The depth and current dictate weight needs.
Best Nearshore Fishing Spots in Block Island
Top spots where local captains target cod and other nearshore species.
Block Island North Rip
The North Rip off Sandy Point at Block Island's northern tip is one of the most productive nearshore fishing grounds in southern New England, where powerful tidal currents create standing rips that concentrate baitfish and gamefish. Striped bass, bluefish, false albacore, bonito, and fluke converge in the turbulent water during seasonal migrations. The rip produces its best fishing during strong tidal flow, with explosive surface feeding that draws anglers from the mainland.
Southwest Ledge
Southwest Ledge extends from Block Island's southwest corner into deeper water, where submerged rock structure and strong currents create prime habitat for striped bass, bluefish, tautog, and black sea bass. The ledge's exposed position catches currents from Block Island Sound and the open Atlantic, concentrating baitfish along its rocky contours. Boat anglers work the ledge's edges and drop-offs for quality fish in a dramatic oceanside setting.
Southeast Light Shoreline
The dramatic bluff shoreline below Southeast Light on Block Island's south coast features a boulder-strewn beach where striped bass, bluefish, and false albacore feed along the rocky nearshore zone. The beach is accessible via a steep trail from the lighthouse, and its exposed Atlantic-facing position catches powerful surf and currents. Surf-casting from the boulders below the cliffs during the fall run produces some of Block Island's most memorable shore-fishing.
Block Island Wind Farm Area
The Block Island Wind Farm off the island's southeast coast features five massive turbine foundations that function as artificial reefs, attracting tautog, black sea bass, striped bass, and fluke to the submerged structure. The turbine bases create current breaks and provide habitat in the otherwise open nearshore environment. Since the wind farm's installation, fishing around the foundations has produced excellent catches of structure-oriented species.
Other Species in Block Island
More fish you can target while visiting Block Island.
Cod Fishing in Block Island — FAQ
Cod fishing in Block Island is productive during .
Cod fishing charters in Block Island are typically nearshore trips. Prices vary by trip duration and group size. Most charters include all gear, bait, licenses, and fish cleaning.
Bottom fishing with diamond jigs (8-16 oz) bounced on rocky bottom in 60-200+ feet of water is the traditional technique. Tipping the jig with a strip of squid, clam, or fish belly increases effectiveness. Baited cod rigs (high-low rigs with size 6/0-8/0 hooks baited with clams, squid, or cut fish) fished on the bottom over wrecks and rocky structure produce consistent catches. Jigging with Norwegian-style cod jigs and butterfly jigs is effective in strong current. Fish Stellwagen Bank, Jeffreys Ledge, and deep-water wrecks for the best action.
No — when you book a charter in Block Island, your captain provides all required Rhode Island fishing licenses as part of the trip.
Cod regulations in Rhode Island include minimum size limits and bag limits that vary by season. Your captain will know the current regulations and ensure compliance.
While targeting Cod in Block Island, you may also catch Striped Bass, Bluefish, False Albacore, Black Sea Bass, Porgy. Many charter trips target multiple species for the best action.
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