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May Brings Hot Inshore Action to Narragansett – Stripers, Tautog, and More Biting Now
Block Island - Washington, RI
Inshore fishing along the coast of Narragansett is heating up as water temperatures continue to rise and baitfish move into the area. Anglers are finding consistent action targeting a mix of spring species in the shallow waters, rocky shorelines, and nearshore structures.
Striped Bass: The striped bass bite is strong right now, especially during early morning and evening tides. Schoolie bass are abundant, with larger fish starting to show up around the mouth of the Narrow River, Point Judith Pond, and along the rocky coastline. Soft plastics, topwater plugs, and live eels have all been producing solid results.
Tautog: Tautog season is in full swing, with solid catches reported around rock piles, breakwaters, and wrecks. Green crabs on jig heads or rigs are the go-to bait. Anglers are finding fish in 10–30 feet of water, and limits are being reached regularly.
Black Sea Bass: Although still early in the season, a few sea bass are being caught by anglers targeting deeper structure just off the inshore zone. Expect this fishery to improve significantly in the coming weeks.
Flounder: Flounder action is picking up in the back bays and sandy bottom areas, especially in quieter waters like the upper parts of Point Judith Pond. Squid strips and small bucktails are working well.
Bluefish: A few gator blues have been spotted moving through the area, chasing baitfish. Watch for bird activity and surface explosions – fast retrieves with metals or topwater lures will get the bite.
Tips: Light tackle setups are perfect for the inshore bite right now. Focus on structure and moving water for the best results. With baitfish like silversides and bunker flooding the shoreline, matching the hatch is key.