Fishing
From a Block Island guidebook of many years past.
“If you have never experienced the thrill of the tuna’s rush; if you have never witnessed the battle put up by a giant swordfish; if you have never felt the ripping, tearing, bull-dog attack of the ferocious bluefish as he fights you up to the gunwale of your boat and then tries to bite your hand off as you unhook him, then you are due for some experiences you have missed by not coming to Block Island.”
From almost any Block Island beach, skilled anglers can land striped bass and bluefish. Fluke and flounder are often hooked in the New Harbor channel. Tautog and mackerel are also common. Tuna are reeled in by offshore fishermen, while swordfish and other billfish are prized bounty but much less common than they once were. Saltwater flyfishing for most species is also popular on Block Island, and young and old enjoy jigging for squid from island docks. Catch and return is the policy for most B.I. fishermen. But a striped bass on the grill is always a treat. B.I.’s lightly fished freshwater ponds hold a number of surprises, including perch, pickerel, bass and even pike (some say). Fishing licenses are available at Town Hall (not required for salt water).
Block Island Fishworks
This company offers local fishing guide and charter boat services. Enjoy surfcasting from a remote beach or charter a boat to explore offshore opportunities. Block Island Fishworks specializes in fly fishing, light tackle, surfcasting, and family adventures. All abilities are welcome and all tackle provided, fly fishing and tying lessons available.
For rates and reservations, email: bifishworks@msn.com
401/742-3992 or 401/466-5392
www.bifishworks.com
Linesider Fishing Charters
Enjoy the best fishing New England has to offer, on the 36-foot Stanley Lobster yacht, "Rooster." Captain Eric Gustafson and the Linesider crew were recently featured on the New England fishing show "On the Water." Half- and full-day charters available. Fishing for stripers, blues, fluke and sea bass. All necessary gear provided. Great trip for young and old alike. Don't forget to bring a camera.
401/439-5386
www.linesiderfishing.com.
Email: luckystryke2450@aol.com
Persuader
Catch fish and create memories with Captain Denny Dillon and family. A trip aboard Persuader is a great way to introduce the kids to the thrill of the chase on the high seas in pursuit of shark or tuna. Available for full or half days, with 27 years of experience fishing BI waters, long known for its world class fishing. Captain Dillon provides affordable fishing charters for up to six anglers.
401/783-5644
http://members.cox.net/persuader-boat/
Email: persuader-boat@cox.net
Twin Maples Bait and Tackle
Twin Maples Bait and Tackle. Home of the famous "Eat Fish" T-shirts, Twin Maples has been family owned and operated for three generations. This traditional tackle shop offers bait, lures, and advice for great fishing spots. Free tide charts are available. Visit the shop on Beach Avenue and bring your big catch to be featured in the Twin Maples photo album. 401/466-5547.
Bait is sold at Twin Maples on Beach Avenue.Fishing licenses—for fresh-water fishing—are sold at Town Hall. Shellfish licenses can be purchased there, too. 401/466-3200.