Smooth Dogfish Fishing in Rhode Island
When smooth dogfish are caught across Rhode Island, season by season, from NOAA’s recreational catch survey (2024).
Smooth Dogfish catch through the year
Recreational catch in Rhode Island by two-month season. The peak window is highlighted.
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Catching smooth dogfish in Rhode Island
Smooth Dogfish catches in Rhode Island run hardest around Jul-Aug, with the strongest two-month windows in Jul-Aug and Sep-Oct. Anglers keep about 8% of what they catch and release the rest. All of this comes from NOAA’s recreational catch survey, so it maps the season rather than any single day.
To turn the season into a trip, line the peak window up with the daily bite. Check the Rhode Island fishing times for the solunar windows, the tide charts for moving water, and the sunrise and sunset times for first and last light.
Frequently asked
When is the best time to catch smooth dogfish in Rhode Island?+
Catches peak around Jul-Aug (July and August). The strongest two-month windows are Jul-Aug and Sep-Oct. This is based on NOAA's 2024 recreational catch survey, so it reflects the typical season rather than a live report.
Do anglers keep or release smooth dogfish in Rhode Island?+
Across Rhode Island, about 8% of the smooth dogfish caught are kept and 92% are released. That works out to roughly 13K kept and 160K released in 2024.
How many smooth dogfish are caught in Rhode Island?+
NOAA's survey estimated about 173K smooth dogfish caught by recreational anglers in Rhode Island in 2024, making it the #9 most-caught species in the state. Survey estimates, so read them as the shape of the season.
Where does this smooth dogfish data come from?+
NOAA's Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP), 2024 estimates. Courtesy: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
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