Your South County vacation could take many forms. For some, lounging on the beach is enough activity, while others prefer to hike the region’s trails, sample its restaurants, and wander its coastlines.
As you might expect based on its abundant waterways, South County also has a vibrant fishing scene with different spots to check out based on your desired experience.
One of the top fishing spots in the region is Ninigret Pond, a saltwater body with species like northern pike, chain pickerel, striped bass, bluefish, lake whitefish, winter flounder, and black sea bass. You can also do some shellfishing in the pond.
Here’s some information on fishing Ninigret Pond in Charlestown, RI, during your time in South County.
Your Fishing License
Before anything else, you’ll need a saltwater fishing license before you put your line in the water. Fortunately, these permits only cost $7 for Rhode Island residents and $10 for non-residents for the entire year, or $5 for residents and non-residents for a seven-day permit.
There are some exceptions to this rule, though, as anyone with a National Saltwater Angler Registration or a state permit from New York, Massachusetts, Connecticut, or Maine doesn’t have to buy a second license in Rhode Island. You also don’t need a permit if you’re under 16 or fishing from a licensed charter boat.
Put Your Boat in the Water
Once you have your fishing license, you can begin looking at places to put your boat in the water. The spot you use to start your fishing excursion largely depends on the type of vessel you have.
Lavin’s Landing Marina could be your best bet if you bring a small fishing boat to South County. This location has a paved ramp and a dock, making getting your boat onto Ninigret Pond relatively easy. The ramp is just off Route 1 and has on-site parking, making it a popular spot for anglers.
If you plan to fish from a kayak, you’ll have plenty of other options for putting your boat in the water, starting with Grassy Point in Ninigret Park. This location is easily accessible from the parking lot and free to use, making it a top location for visitors to begin their fishing trek.
There’s also a kayak launch near Charlestown Beach. You can rent kayaks from this area if you don’t bring one and head into the east end of Ninigret Pond for some fishing. The kayak launch has a parking area right beside the water, making it a convenient starting point.
You can put your kayak in the water from countless other spots near Charlestown Beach, East Beach, and Blue Shutters Beach, too, so no matter where you want to begin your journey, there’s access to Ninigret Pond.
Fish From the Shore
As you wander through Ninigret Park, there’s a good chance you’ll see people fishing from the shoreline. This area is popular with anglers because it’s easy to find a secluded spot, and the park’s coves get little boat traffic.
Remember, per state regulations, if you plan to fish in Ninigret Park, you can only do so during daylight hours. The park doesn’t permit night fishing, although you can fish after dusk in other parts of South County.
Buy Fishing Tackle and Bait in South County
Before your fishing trip, you might want to pick up some lures and tackle. South County has some great local shops you can check out to buy precisely what you need to catch fish in Ninigret Pond.
Breachway Bait & Tackle is located on Charlestown Beach Road, a short distance from Ninigret Park. This retailer is an excellent resource if you have questions about local fishing laws, and you can even buy a fishing license on-site if you need one.
As far as bait and lures go, the staff knows Ninigret Pond and other fishing spots inside and out and will make recommendations based on what you’re trying to catch and the current conditions. Breachway Bait & Tackle should be one of your first stops if you’re serious about catching some fish.
Another bait and tackle shop in the region is Quonnie Bait and Tackle. This retailer is also in Charlestown but closer to Blue Shutters Beach. Once inside, you’ll find all kinds of live bait options and the right hooks to snag a catch in Ninigret Pond. Ask the staff what you should use because they know what they’re doing and will gladly help.
Your South County Fishing Experience
South County is full of excellent fishing holes, as Ninigret Pond is just the tip of the iceberg. You can also check out the numerous freshwater ponds and rivers in the region or head out on a charter for the ultimate deep-sea fishing adventure, depending on what you’re into trying.
One thing for sure is that you’ll never get bored while checking out the fishing scene in this area because there are so many unique options.