Fishing Fun: 7 Rhode Island State Parks to Reel in the Big One

With a nickname like the Ocean State, it’s a given that you’re going to find excellent water-based fun in Rhode Island. With its diverse saltwater coastline, freshwater lakes and ponds and scenic rivers, the state offers some excellent fishing opportunities. Here are some of the best state parks in Rhode Island where you can cast a line and enjoy a day of fishing.

1. Burlingame State Park

Gather your fishing gear and head to Burlingame State Park. Located in Charlestown, it features the 573-acre Watchaug Pond, which is a popular freshwater fishing destination for trout, bass, pickerel, perch and sunfish. With ample shoreline access and boat launching facilities, this park is perfect for anglers of all levels.

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Trout, bass, perch, pickerel
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore

2. Colt State Park

Situated in Bristol along Narragansett Bay, the 464-acre Colt State Park offers excellent saltwater fishing opportunities. The park’s rocky shoreline and fishing pier provide great spots to catch striped bass, bluefish and flounder. Its picturesque setting makes it a favorite for both fishing and relaxation, whether you’re coming from a marina, your driveway or a private boat slip for rent.

• Water: Salt
• Key Species: Striped bass, flounder, bluefish
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore, pier

3. Lincoln Woods State Park

Just outside of Providence, Lincoln Woods State Park is a top spot for freshwater fishing from kayaks, canoes and small boats. The 128-acre Olney Pond, located within the park, is stocked with trout and also features largemouth bass, sunfish, and catfish. The park’s accessibility and boat rentals make it a convenient fishing destination.

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Trout, sunfish, catfish, largemouth bass
• Fishing Type: Small boats, shore, kayak

4. Fishermen’s Memorial State Park

Fishermen's Memorial State Park in Narragansett serves as a gateway to some of Rhode Island’s best saltwater fishing. Nearby locations like Point Judith and Galilee offer shore fishing and charter boat trips. Anglers coming from a private boat dock rental or a marina can expect to catch striped bass, bluefish and tautog in these waters.

• Water: Salt
• Key Species: Bluefish, tautog, striped bass
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore, charter

5. Beavertail State Park

Located in Jamestown, Beavertail State Park is famous for its rugged coastline and excellent saltwater fishing. It’s one of the best spots in the state to catch striped bass, bluefish and scup. The stunning ocean views add to the park’s appeal, making it a great location for both fishing, sightseeing and Beavertail Lighthouse viewing.

• Water: Salt
• Key Species: Bluefish, scup, striped bass
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore, surf

6. Goddard Memorial State Park

Situated in Warwick along Greenwich Bay, this Goddard Memorial State Park offers a mix of saltwater and brackish fishing opportunities. Anglers can fish from the shore or launch a kayak to explore the bay’s waters, where they can find striped bass, flounder and scup.

• Water: Salt and brackish
• Key Species: Flounder, striped bass, scup
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore, kayak

7. Fort Wetherill State Park

Are you searching for a scenic setting to visit from a private boat lift for rent? Fort Wetherill State Park in Jamestown is a fantastic destination for saltwater fishing. With its deep waters and rocky shorelines, anglers can catch a variety of fish, including tautog, black sea bass and bluefish. The park’s scenic cliffs also make it an excellent place for sightseeing.

• Water: Salt
• Key Species: Tautog, black sea bass, bluefish
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore