Rhode Island · Rhode Island Coast
COD FISHING
IN NEWPORT
Newport is a solid destination for cod fishing. Book a charter and target cod with local experts.
About Cod Fishing in Newport
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 — Newport
Month-by-month availability for cod in Newport, RI.
How to Catch Cod in Newport
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 Newport
Top spots where local captains target cod and other nearshore species.
Brenton Reef
Brenton Reef extends south from Brenton Point at Newport's southern tip, where submerged rock ledges and strong currents create a nearshore fishing hotspot for striped bass, bluefish, false albacore, and bonito. The reef's exposed position catches currents from Narragansett Bay, Rhode Island Sound, and the open Atlantic, making it a natural fish-concentrating feature. Boat anglers work the reef's edges while shore-casters fish from Brenton Point State Park.
Castle Hill Rip
Castle Hill on Newport's southwest shore produces a tidal rip where Narragansett Bay's outflow meets the open water of Rhode Island Sound. The rip's turbulent water concentrates baitfish and attracts striped bass, bluefish, false albacore, and bonito during seasonal migrations. Shore anglers fish from the rocks below the historic Castle Hill Inn while boat anglers drift the rip for explosive surface action during the fall run.
Sachuest Point (Second Beach)
Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge at the eastern end of Second Beach provides access to rocky nearshore waters where striped bass, bluefish, tautog, and false albacore patrol. The point's exposed rocky coastline faces the open ocean and catches powerful currents that concentrate baitfish along the shore. Surf-casting from the rocks at Sachuest Point during the fall migration is one of Rhode Island's finest shore-fishing experiences.
Newport Bridge Pilings
The Claiborne Pell Newport Bridge spanning Narragansett Bay creates a massive underwater structure where tidal currents sweep past concrete pilings, attracting striped bass, bluefish, tautog, and black sea bass. The bridge's deep-water pilings hold fish year-round, and the current breaks created by the structure concentrate baitfish and predators. Boat anglers drift or anchor near the pilings for consistent nearshore catches.
Other Species in Newport
More fish you can target while visiting Newport.
Cod Fishing in Newport — FAQ
Cod fishing in Newport is productive during .
Cod fishing charters in Newport 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 Newport, 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 Newport, you may also catch Striped Bass, Tautog, Bluefish, Fluke, Porgy. Many charter trips target multiple species for the best action.
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