2016 RHODE ISLAND FISHING

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2 4 Welcome to the Rhode Island Party & Charter Boat Association The R.I. Party and Charter Boat Association is charted under the laws and requirements of the State of Rhode Island. It was chartered in 1962 by a group of charter boat fishermen who are still members of the Association today. Its prime purpose is to promote the vast sportfishing and bottom fishing potential in R.I.. It is a well known fact that there is no other area on this coast that offers such an abundance and variety of fish as do these waters. We also felt that it was necessary when visiting sportsmen, vacationers and clubs wanted to honor us with their patronage, a list of highly qualified Captains and boats should be available for their consideration. We are bonded together in a spirit of cooperation to exchange ideas and information in a manner that will benefit our members and result in your having a great day on the water while getting the most out of the supply of fish available while abiding by all fishing regulations. Every RIPCBA captain holds a U.S. Coast Guard license and all captains and crew are in a mandatory random drug program. All State and Federal Safety requirements of passenger carrying vessels are met by the RIPCBA vessels. It will certainly pay you, in peace of mind and results, to be aboard one of our more than 65 vessels when you sail from any Rhode Island port. Your PLEASURE and SAFETY are our prime concern. Make sure the vessel you sail on displays the R.I. Party & Charter Boat Association Logo and either the USCG COI or UPV decal. We have more than 65 vessels for you to choose from FISH OUR LOGO Cruising Fishing SAFETY & SATISFACTION Diving Sightseeing COI decal Call the captain of your choice from the list of our vessels found on pages 2 & 3 or visit: UPV decal

3 All rights reserved to the Rhode Island Party & Charter Boat Association. RIPCBA will not be held responsible for the content of any advertisements. Website QR code R.I. Party & Charter Boat Association Magazine Committee: Nick Butziger & John Rainone RIPCBA OFFICERS Rick Bellavance Steve Anderson Andrew Dangelo Paul Johnson Sr. Nick Butziger President Vice President Treasurer Secretary Drug Program Table of Contents List of Our Charter Boats 2 The President s Message 4 Book a Charter as a Special Gift 6 Why Come to RI 7 Beware 8 Our Future Fishermen 10 Common Questions on Charter Boats 12 Fish You Might Catch 14 Helpful Fishing Tips 20 Book A Charter Boat! 26 Fishing Techniques for BI North Rip 28 Easy Microwave on the Boat 34 Champagne Bluefish Recipe 35 Family Fishing 36 Fish You Can Catch 49 2 nd Wounded Vets Fishing Adventure 52 A Ladies only Fishing Charter 56 Something for Everyone 58 List of Advertisers 61 Fish on boats that display our Logo 1

4 2 Don t forget to bring the following items when you go out on the water: Sun Tan Lotion Sun Glasses & Hat Soft Sole Shoes Rain Gear (if needed) Camera Coke, Juice, Water Crackers & Pretzels Bags to take your fish home in! Providence To Boston, Mass. UPPER BAY FIN DEEP - 23 Capt. Brian Patterson 75 Ballou Blvd. Bristol, RI RIVER REBEL - 26 Capt. Randell Bagwell 90 Butterworth Ave. Bristol, RI VIRGINIA - JOAN - 26 Capt. David Monti 399 Greenwood Ave. Warwick, RI To Norwich CT URI Warwick Upper Bay Jamestown Bristol ISLAND GIRL - 31 Capt. Rick Cataldi To Mass. 269 Paine St. Warwick, RI CHIC-A-DEEJAY - 36 Capt. Benny Peters 111 Taft Hill Lane Uxbridge, MA Newport Watch Hill Westerly WATCH HILL BILLFISH - 25 Capt. Bill Brown 192 Weymouth Rd. Enfield, CT JUST FISH - 29 Capt. Kip Jenkins 514 Buff Cap Road Tolland, CT FISH TRAP - 36 Capt. Tom Logan 1655 North Ave. Stratford, CT Narragansett Wakefield Snug Harbor Jerusalm Galilee Point Judith Block Island BLOCK ISLAND G. WILLIE MAKIT - 28 Capt. Bill Gould 13 Riverside Lane Madison, CT ALLIE MARIE - 29 Capt. David Chieffo PO Box Beach Ave. Block Island RI NEWPORT NASHA III - 34 Capt. Charles Jenison UPPER BAY WAKEFIELD LILY ANN - 24 Capt. Ryan Lawhorn 10 Pawcatuck View Rd Carolina, RI HOOK - EM - 27 Capt. Mike Lawing 165 Dover Lane Richmond, RI JERUSALEM PAMELA MAY - 18 Capt. Jason Howell 116 Westmoreland St. Narragansett, RI FULLY INVOLVED - 23 Capt. Jeff Hall 1685 South County Trail East Greenwich, RI DRIFTER TOO - 35 Capt. Richard Chatowsky Sr. P.O. Box 494 Hope Valley, RI ANDREW & STEVEN - 41 Capt. Steven Follett 145 Thoreau Lane Wakefield, RI

5 3 Galilee BUSY LINE - 23 Capt. Norman Bardell P.O. Box 2041 Woonsocket, RI STUFF IT - 23 Capt. Joe Pagano 55 Angell Lane N. Scituate, RI LIL DEVIL II - 24 Capt. Lynn Smith 3595 Post Rd. Warwick, RI MARLIN III - 25 Capt. John Goolgasian 25 Hillview Dr. No. Providence, RI MISSION - 25 Capt. John Mc Cann 4810 South County Trail Charlestown, RI AVENGER - 26 Capt. Al Caletri 8 Eire Rd. Narragansett,RI FISH ON - 29 Capt. John Sheriff 81 Hardig Rd Warwick, RI HIZ & HERZ - 30 Capt. Chris Herz 22 Hillsdale Rd. Richmond, RI CAROL J - 31 Capt. Paul Johnson Sr. 30 Gooseberry Rd. Wakefield, RI C. J Capt. Barry Cherms 244 Pond St. Wakefield, RI MILLER TIME - 31 Capt. Fred Miller 784 Middlebridge Rd. Wakefield, RI OLD SALT - 31 Capt. Bill Della Valle 10 Amancio St. Wakefield, RI SAKARAK - 31 Capt. Mitch Chagnon 140 Winter Berry Rd. Saunderstown, RI C-DEVIL II - 32 Capt. Kelly Smith 331 Burdickville Rd. Charlestown, RI A to Z - 35 Capt. Scott Capwell 520 Perry Hill Rd. Coventry, RI ADVENTURE - 35 Capt. Chris Bell PO Box H Pawtucket, RI ACES WILD - 35 Capt. Earl Bell 90 Glen Rock Rd. Exeter RI GAIL-ANN - 35 Capt. Chuck Boranian L IL TOOT - 35 Capt. John Rainone 35 Ocean View Drive Narragansett, RI PATTY J - 35 Capt. John Parente 34 Whitehall Dr. Warwick, RI REEL TO REEL - 35 Capt. Scott Lundberg PO Box 637 Slatersville RI MARIDEE II - 36 Capt. Andrew Dangelo 1035 Liberty Lane West Kingston, RI PRIORITY TOO - 36 Capt. Rick Bellavance 140 Jerry Lane N. Kingston, RI DRIFTER - 37 Capt. Richard Chatowsky Jr. 58 Tamanaco Dr. Charlestown, RI SEA HAWK - 37 Capt. Nick Butziger 44 Bowen Briggs Ave. Warwick, RI BARE BONES - 38 Capt. Steven Anderson 33 Grand View Dr. Warwick, RI MAKO II - 43 (Cap. 14) Capt. David Tyrrell 25 Columbine Ct. Wakefield, RI MISTY - 43 Capt. Mark Ambrosia 53 Karison St. #1 Wakefield, RI PERSUADER - 44 Capt. Dennis Dillon 110 Avice Street Narragansett, RI SNAPPA - 46 (Cap.21) Capt. Charles Donilon 2 Congdon Dr. Wakefield, RI SEVEN B S V - 80 (Cap.120) Capt. Russ Benn 11 Riptide Rd. Narragansett, RI FRANCES FLEET (Cap.150) Capt. Frank Blount P. O. Box 3724 Peace Dale RI Snug Harbor GANNET - 21 Capt. Mark Sherer 1059 Frenchtown Rd. East Greenwich, RI JACKHAMMER - 24 Capt. John Carpenter 64 Apple Rd. Brimfield, MA KNOTTY DOG - 25 Capt. Bill Kelley 21 Mockingbird Lane Wakefield, RI STRIKER - 30 Capt. Russell Blank 516 South County Trail N. Kingstown, RI VYCORE - 31 Capt. Karl Schmaling RR # 1 Box 338 Passaic, NY CHERRY PEPPER - 32 Capt. Linwood Safford 84 Lady Slipper Dr. Charlestown, RI LUCKY LADY - 32 Capt. Steven Palmer 32 Spruce Rd. Wakefield, RI HOT PURSUIT - 37 Capt. Charlie Johnson 40 Melbourne Rd. Warwick, RI RESTLESS - 37 Capt. Rich Templeton 521 Post Rd. Wakefield, RI LADY K - 43 Capt. Stephen Babigian 661 Chestnut Hill Rd. Wakefield, RI

6 4 THE PRESIDENT S MESSAGE On behalf of the entire membership of the Rhode Island Party and Charter Boat Association, I would like to thank you for picking up a copy of our yearly publication. Formed in 1962, the RIP- CBA has been the voice of the Party and Charter Fishing Industry in Rhode Island for 54 years. Over those years our members have seen changes in clientele, changes in technology, changes to the way we manage our marine resources, and changes to our climates. Through all this, what remains unchanged is our love for our work and our commitment to our customers and our community began with uncertainty for Rhode Island s charter fishing captains and the passengers we carry. Technology, alternative energy, and regulations all shaped a year filled with new challenges and experiences. Once the lines were tied to the dock for the last time in 2015, we could look back and gauge how progress affects our ability to provide our clients with a great experience on the water. Fishing regulations finalized for 2015 were significantly different from those we fished under in Striped Bass, a particularly important species to those who fish aboard RI s charter fishing boats, required a reduction in bag limits, and it was lowered to one fish per person. The 50 percent reduction in bag limit was required as the stock size was thought to be approaching a critical number. Good recruitment and a pattern of underestimating the number of spawning fish are a good sign for the future and hopefully we will return to a two fish per person limit soon. Black Sea Bass regulations were also reduced in 2015, even though there seems to be an unlimited supply of these tasty fish. A positive note is the significant increase in the amount of Cod found in the waters off Rhode Island. Many Captains reported catches of Cod in 2015 that they had not seen in many years. Construction on the first offshore wind farm in the United States began in July 2015 off the southeast coast of Block Island. The construction activities were a bit of a nuisance to those fishing in the area and it seemed some days the fish were really affected by the work, but the pile driving is finished and next year we will only have to deal with the underwater cable work and the final installation of the actual wind turbines. Fish have begun to gather around the structures and it may be interesting to some people to see them operate. We will have vessels that can take you to see them when they finish next fall. Your charter captain can now report the numbers of fish that are caught and released by using a handheld tablet. Previously, the reports were submitted by paper and there was typically a delay in getting the catch data to the State and to the NOAA Fisheries. The RIPCBA spent years helping to develop the software, and now the program is finally available for us to use in place of paper. We are hopeful to capture more accurate data which will help to make better regulations. On July 23rd 2015, RIPCBA Captains and Crew donated their time and boats to support wounded veterans by bringing 70 Veterans and their caregivers out fishing on a beautiful morning. This was the second trip RIPCBA captains donated to the Veterans. We were all impressed by the resilience displayed by these amazing men and women who have given so much to our country. We look forward to more laughs and great memories on this year s trip. Following our annual Captains banquet, we collected and delivered several hundred pounds of non-perishable food items to the Jonny Cake Food Bank in Narragansett, RI. I have always been impressed with our member s commitment to the local communities that support their businesses and 2015 was no exception. Collaboration with the U.S. Coast Guard resulted in the development of a UPV examination program for passenger carrying vessels that carry six or less passengers. RIPCBA members were the first in the region to receive this decal. Our clients can now easily recognize vessels that have

7 5 been examined and found to be in compliance with all regulations currently required for our vessels and crew. Prior to this program, only vessels carrying more than 6 passengers were inspected by the USCG and displayed an US Coast Guard issued COI decal. We require all RIPCBA boats to show proof that each has passed a vessel UPV Examination and display a current UPV Decal at all times simce August 15, Safety is on the minds of everyone and we are leaders in our industry when supporting safe practices. As we approach the 2016 season, I am encouraged by the condition of many of the fish stocks we catch. An improving economy will provide more people with the resources to take advantage of a beautiful day on the water. Rhode Island is geographically located to offer some of the country s best opportunities for fishing, diving, cruising and sightseeing activities. The RIPCBA members are all licensed professionals ready to help create your next memorable experience on the water. Rhode Island is called the Ocean State for a reason. To experience the very best of our ocean activities be sure to FISH OUR LOGO Capt. Rick Bellavance Jr. Capt. Rick Bellavance, President Rhode Island Party and Charter Boat Association Whale Watching Fishing Cruising Reasons For Coming to Rhode Island You can choose From Over 65 Vessels Nearest port to the famous Block Island and Cox s Ledge Fishing Grounds * Restaurants right at the docks * Plenty of Free Parking * * Home of Tuna, Big Gamefish, Billfish, Bass, Bluefish, Tournaments * R.I. s inshore fishing grounds are everyone else s offshore grounds

8 6 BOOK A CHARTER TRIP AS A SPECIAL GIFT How often have you been in a situation of trying to come up with a new and unique gift idea for that special occasion? Perhaps you have had difficulty finding something for someone who seems to have everything and have racked your brain trying to find something that this individual does not have. Well folks, I just might have the solution to this very common dilemma. Why not consider giving that individual a charter fishing trip. We have had charters to celebrate birthdays, graduations, Father s Day, anniversaries, vacations, bachelor parties, family reunions and honeymoon packages. In the past few years people have called to purchase a gift certificate for a fishing charter, and have either given it away as a gift, or donated it as a raffle prize for a fund raiser. Some of the gift certificates were for a half or full day charter, or sometimes they were for a certain monetary amount. Now the person that received the gift certificate might have a $ or $ gift credit that they could apply towards the charter of their choice. Some captains have even had secretaries call to reserve a fishing trip for their boss as a present from them for a special occasion. A mortgage broker booked a few charters for some of his real estate agents and lawyers that were his business associates. He said he couldn t believe the business he generated by taking them out on those fishing trips. These types of trips combine the excitement of fishing along with the fellowship of friends or family, sharing the fun and experience together. I can t tell you how many times people have told me what a great idea and super gift this type of trip makes. I know from experience that some of the greatest moments of my life involve being around my family and friends on special occasions. What better way to share and remember these moments than with a fishing trip with the people that mean the most to you. The excitement lasts all day and the memories last a lifetime Arranging one of these trips is easy. Just call any of the RIPCBA Captains and we can start putting your plans in motion. Oh by the way, just in case you hear one of your friends say I don t know what to get ### for his or her birthday You might just have the answer. Cruise or Fish aboard boats that display one of these USCG decals

9 Why Come to R.I. Now is the time to make some plans for the family to enjoy the many activities RI has to offer. We have many miles of sandy beaches that you can surf, snorkel, scuba, sail, kayak, or fish in. Also there are many campgrounds to enjoy a relaxing vacation back in time with nature. Newport has its Mansions and Cliff Walk, as well as a busy yachting community, museums, and plenty of shops to visit. Summertime fun and activities can be had by all in the many State Parks and beaches. Many rivers, streams, brooks, and ponds will satisfy the fresh water enthusiasts, while the vast ocean front and rivers that flow into the sea provide action for the surf fishermen. The Salt ponds, coves, ocean and Narragansett Bay, can keep the boaters, kayaks and clam differs happy. There are many very skilled Party ad Charter boat captains with excellent boats of every size, docked at various ports throughout the state. Theses captains are ready to take you fishing, cruising, sightseeing, or cruising for a few hours, a half, three quarter or full day or more. You might want to venture off Block Island to check out the first Wind Farm in the USA. We also have many Lighthouses throughout RI, and some of the boats do provide Lighthouse Tours, as well as Harbor Tours. Whale watching trips also provide a chance to see porpoises as well as turtles, sharks, and other sea life. We can take you out to view the many sail boat races that leave out of Newport, or you could anchor up and enjoy the Newport Jazz and Folk Festivals. If you have a boat, and would like to learn how to fish or handle your own boat, our professional captains can teach you how. Just give one of our captains a call to set it up. A ferry boat ride to beautiful Block Island, the Bermuda of the North, for a day might interest you. There are many, many reasons to come to Rhode Island for a visit. Historic places of interest, churches, theater, music, festivals, jewelry and shopping, are all here for you to enjoy. 7

10 8 BEWARE Beware is a strong word, but what does it really mean in the world of boating and fishing though? Well, it can mean a lot of things. Some are life threatening, and others might only hurt you financially. Let s take a look at a few of the new scenarios that should come with the hidden feeling or after-thought of BEWARE. First there is a big difference between a recreational vessel and a commercial vessel. Charter boats are commercial vessels regulated by the USCG. They require additional equipment and documents to be aboard and the captain is required to be licensed. The captain and the crew are required to be in a random drug testing program. All of this is because, by regulation, when you go aboard a commercial vessel, it is the crew s responsibility to keep their passengers safe from harm. When you go aboard a recreational vessel, you are accepting a lot of the responsibility for your safety. It is like going to a restaurant and you get hurt when the chair you are sitting in breaks as compared to going to a friend s home and the same thing happens. What constitutes a charter boat? When a passenger, in order to be aboard the vessel, must contribute consideration (money, goods or services), this makes he/she a passenger-for-hire and the vessel is a commercial vessel engaged in the Coastwise trade (passenger carrying vessel) which is governed by the USCG. Lately there has been an influx of new charter boats and charter boat captains popping up everywhere. Sounds like a good thing for people looking to go fishing, because now you have more boats to choose from. Most times I would agree, but now that dockage and insurance prices are skyrocketing, cost of fuel (some boat burn 20 to 50 gal/hr) and maintenance costs are high, the average boater is having trouble justifying leaving the dock and spending a small fortune each year to keep their own boat. Many boat owners are either limiting their time using them or trying to sell their boats. There are others that have decided their solution is to be a Charter Boat Captain to defray the expenses of ownership. If they use any expenses for their boat as a business expense, that makes the vessel a charter boat. Some boat owners are trying to get people to go fishing on their boat and charging the passengers a fee (requiring them to contribute consideration to be aboard) to offset their annual boat expenses. This is illegal unless they meet all the regulations required of charter vessels. Some of these boat owners even advertise on the internet chat rooms etc. 5 people needed to go fishing this Saturday at $85. per person to cover the costs. This is no different from a charter boat operator who is in full compliance with all the federal regulations, advertising in his brochure or internet, Charter boat available Saturday for five people maximum $425. I don t have a problem with boat owners taking friends out fishing, but when you advertise it and ask for money, you are crossing the line. The only consideration (money, goods or services), a recreational boat owner can legally accept (and it must be voluntary) from his passengers, is the amount you get when you divide equally among all the passengers on that one trip, only those costs that actually occurred for that one trip. How do you know if the boat is safe and the captain really knows how to navigate the water and get you back safely? What happens if there is an accident? The boat owner could be sued and lose his boat and his home? You, the passenger, assume that the captain is a professional engaged in a business and is licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard, and he has the experience and training to handle his vessel on the waters on which he is navigating. Actually you have no clue as to the experience of the average charter boat operator, is he acting professionally? He might be a very experienced boater, but he may not be compliant with all regulations required of a charter boat. Continued on page 42

11 9 Uninspected Passenger Vessel Decal

12 10 Our Future Fishermen

13 11 Teach them to Enjoy Fishing

14 12 COMMON QUESTIONS ON CHARTER BOATS Here are some questions and answers that many people ask when trying to book a RIPCBA vessel. (Q) Do we have to bring food and drinks or do you have them on the boats? (A) If you are going a party boat, they do provide food, snacks and drinks onboard, but you are always welcome to bring your own food. Check with them to see what is on the menu, and don t expect a prime rib or lobster dinner. Some boats sell and allow alcohol onboard, and others do not, so check first. As for charter boats, most do not have food or drinks onboard so everyone brings their own, but you can always ask the captain if food or drinks could be provided. Some charter groups check in advance and order muffins, coffee or breakfast sandwiches, or sandwiches and drinks for lunch. You would then pay the captain the expense of providing you with your food and drinks. (Q) Is alcohol allowed on charter boats? (A) Some charter boats allow people to drink beer or wine and not hard stuff, while other boats allow anything you want to drink, but I believe the common answer amongst all charter boats is that if anyone gets drunk or out of hand, the trip is over and the boat returns to the dock and you still pay for the full trip. (Q) How many people are allowed on the boats and do children count? (A) First off, children no matter how young do count towards your total people allowed, as well as people who say they only want to watch and not fish. You are considered a passenger on a licensed A to Z Charters * Inshore and Offshore Trips * Half and Full Day Trips * Block Island and Beyond * All Bait & Tackle provided * Bass to Giant Tuna * 6-Person Maximum 35 ft. Duffy Express Diesel powererd Capt. Scott Capwell (401) Tunajunky194@verizon.net

15 13 passenger carrying vessel and we have strict laws set by the U.S. Coast Guard that we have to abide by. Party boats are Inspected Vessels, meaning they can carry more than 6 passengers up to the capacity of their vessel, and so they are just like going to the movies. You can call ahead and reserve a spot or just show up and if there is room you get a ticket and climb aboard. Charter boats by Coast Guard rules are only allowed to take up to 6 people. The only exception is the Inspected Charter boats that are allowed over 6 passengers. Sometimes we get people that want to take more than 6 but don t want to go on a party boat with other people. You can ask the captain if he has other charter boats that he works with and you can put your charter together with as many boats as needed. This also brings out the competitive edge of all the anglers, fishing next to each other during the day on the water. This is great for businesses taking out clients or workers, bachelor and bachelorette parties, or family reunions. Of course you can also do this on a party boat and reserve the whole boat to yourselves. Just call and ask the price and see if they can do it. (Q) Do I have to give you a deposit to reserve my trip? (A) Yes. A deposit is our way to reserve your date in our schedule. You will not lose your deposit as long as you show up and go on the boat. If the weather is bad, the captain will Continued on page 16 Have a seat and enjoy Sails from Newport Harbor other ports by arrangement NASHA III Beautifully appointed 34 Mainship Pilot Personalized Tours Contact us and we will make all the arrangements Sightseeing Tours of: Newport Harbor Lighthouses Narragansett Bay Block Island Sunset Cruises Ash Burials Scatter your loved one s cremated remains at sea Capt. Charles Jenison (857) Office: 3 Level Acres Rd S. Attleboro, MA Capt@NewportYachtCharters.net

16 14 Rhode Island fish you might catch BLUEFISH: A real strong fighting fish found in our bays, along the shore and out in deep water. Strikes at a host of artificial lures, feather jigs, eel-skins, whole eels. One of the very few fish that will bite at a man s hand with its steel like jaws. World record 24 pounds. Roams the oceans and is coming back strong. STRIPED BASS : One of our greatest salt water game fish. Found all along Rhode Island shores, particularly in rocky areas and in estuaries, salt ponds and rivers. Largest local fish, 78 pounds, came from Block Island area. Takes artificial lures, shrimp, sea worms, bloodworms, crabs, eels, and menhaden. June through November. ATLANTIC COD: An excellent white meat fish. Caught 12 months of the year by bottom fishing methods near shore to deep-water wrecks. Feeds on clams, crabs, and jigs. Sizes 3 pounds to record 98 pounds. TAUTOG: A bottom fish by most concepts, but also taken with very light tackle and chum in bays and rivers. Found all along shore but favors rocky areas and piers. Feeds on all mollusks, shrimp, worms, crabs. Season April through December. Average size three to seven pounds. Local record is 21 pounds from Seal Rock Ledge. SUMMER FLOUNDER: Also known as fluke, is greatly sought after along ocean fronts. Has sharp teeth and although a bottom fish will drive baitfish to the surface. Caught during warm weather. Feeds on all kinds of small fish and squids. Weighs from a pound to ten and above. SCUP: A silvery bottom fish, weighing from a few ounces up to four pounds. In recent years it has moved into bay and brackish waters in warm weather in great numbers. Larger specimens frequent deep-water ledges and bars offshore. Feeds on all mollusks, squids, shrimp, worms, and bites freely. BLACK SEA BASS: A very feisty bottom fish. They are caught along the shores in rocky areas around pilings and docks, as well as in deep water wrecks and rock piles. Feeds on all mollusks, squid, clams, worms, butterfish, and shrimp. Weighs from a 1/2 lb.to eight lbs. Average sizes are two to five pounds.

17 Ponaug Marina, Inc P: (401) F: (401) Arnolds Neck Drive, Warwick, RI Arnold s Neck Rd. Warwick, R.I CROW S NEST RESTAURANT Great Food * Great View * Great Prices 15 Flukin Sportfishing Charters All Bait & Tackle included Striped Bass, Fluke, Bluefish Sea Bass, Tautog 35 ft Viking Sportfisherman Capt. Chuck Boranian (401) info@flukin.com Sails from the Port of Galilee, RI

18 16 Continued from page 13 decide on the dock if he will sail or not. If he cancels the trip, most likely he will offer you another date to go, and if that doesn t work then you should get your deposit back. Every captain has his own policy so don t be afraid to ask, but if you don t show up, your deposit is not refundable. You have reserved a boat, captain, mate/mates for the day. They probably could have filled that date up with someone else and not lost the day s pay, but at the last minute it s almost impossible. (Q) What is the policy on the fish we catch? (A) First off, we all have to abide by the State and Federal fisheries regulations pertaining to bag limits and size limits for all fish. We have to throw back any fish that are not the right size, and we can t keep more than our limit of fish per person on the boat. You can still catch more fish, but you have to release them. Most charter boats all have State and Federal permits to even be allowed to fish for these species, and we have to report on every trip as to what we kept and threw back. Most boats give all the fish to the anglers. There are exceptions though with Giant Blue Fin Tuna, and other offshore species. You have to check that out with the captain before you go fishing. If you have watched Wicked Tuna you can see how much money is involved in Giant Tuna, but you should also have noticed that the money always went to the boat, captain and crew. If they had a charter onboard, they might have gotten the trip free or had a credit towards another trip. This is due to the licensing and permitting involved in even Sportfishing aboard Hot Pursuit Sails from Snug Harbor INSHORE & OFFSHORE All tackle provided Twin Diesel - Fast & Safe Over 40 years tuna fishing 37 ft. Topaz - Speed & Comfort (401) Bass ~ Blues ~ Fluke Tuna ~ Shark Capt. Charlie Johnson 40 Melbourne Road Warwick, RI Cell: (401)

19 17 being allowed to fish or retain these big fish. (Q) Can we bring our own fishing tackle, rods, reels, or bait? (A) Yes you can, but on party boats they have rods, reels and tackle to rent for a nominal fee, and the bait is provided for you to use, but if you prefer to bring your own, go right ahead. Charter boats are somewhat the same, except most all provide the rods, reels, and tackle needed, but if you would like to bring your own that would be fine, as long as the equipment is in good shape and correct for what you are fishing for. You shouldn t show up to go tuna fishing with a fresh water spinning rod and 6 lb. test on it, and then wonder why the captain tells you to leave it in the car. Bait is usually provided by all charter boats, but if you want to bring along your own or extra I am sure it would be fine. The one bait that is usually an extra expense is eels. Some charter boats charge for eels if you would like to use them during the day to fish for bass. (Q) What happens to the fish I catch? (A) On party boats they keep your fish in a large fish box on a stringer and give you the number of your stringer. On the way home they will ask you if you want your fish cleaned and filleted or gutted or whole. Some people keep their fish in their own coolers. Don t forget to tip the mates at the end of the day for helping you get your gear ready to fish if you needed help, netting and gaffing your fish, as well as cleaning and filleting. On charter boats most fish are put in a fish well or cooler, but you could put them in your own cooler if you prefer. On the way home the mates Continued on page 18 Fully Involved Charters 4 hour trips Max: 3 people for Fluke, Scup Sea Bass Bluefish Striped Bass Narraganset Bay South Shore Block Island Bait & Tackle provided Tours, Sight seeing, Light House tours 23 ft. Parker Capt. Jeff Hall 1685 South County Trail East Greenwich, RI (401) * something new* Shellfishing Charters egcluck@aol.com

20 18 Continued from page 17 will ask the same questions as to how you want your fish. Most groups split up the catch at the end of the day because they all know each other, but you can always keep your own fish if you prefer. Also tell the mate if you want your fish done a certain way. Some people want skinned and boned filets, while others want the skin left on for smoking, or they just want them gutted. Mates will do whatever you want as long as you ask them, and they usually get between 15-20% and more of the charter fee as a tip. This tip is from the whole group not individually. It is also not necessary to tip the captains, but if you feel they have gone out of their way to make your trip enjoyable, I am sure they will appreciate it. (Q) Should I bring along some foul weather gear or does the boat have raincoats if it starts raining? (A) If the weather forecast is for showers or rain, it is best that you bring along a rain coat or foul weather gear and boots. There is always room on the boats to store your gear till you need it. Better to have it with you then in your vehicle. Party & charter boats do not provide foul weather gear. The same applies to hot and cold weather changes. Sometimes in the morning it is very cold and you need a sweatshirt or coat, but later on it warms up and you could fish in your tee shirt. Bring whatever clothes you think you will need to be comfortable. (Q) What should I bring on a charter? (A) You should bring food and drinks, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, clothes for the weather, camera or phone to take pictures. If your food is in a cooler with ice, that is great because now you can put your fish in the cooler to go home. Affordable/Personalized Sport Fishing R ESTLESS Fast - Comfortable - 37 Topaz _ ALL TYPES OF FISHING FULL DAY HALF DAY TWILIGHT EXTENDED DAY FLY FISHING Twin Diesel Powered Fully Insured All Tackle Supplied for FREE brochure contact Capt. Rich Templeton Post Rd., Wakefield, RI lb. Bluefin Tuna Sailing from Snug Harbor 45 lb. Striped Bass CaptRicht1@AOL.com

21 Don t bring along empty big coolers for your fish, especially if there is not enough room on the boat to store it. Leave those big coolers in your vehicle till you get back. Then you can bring it down to the boat and load it up if you need to. Many people use 1 or 2 coolers for everyone, and stow all their drinks and food together. This gives you more room on the boat to move around. (Q) Do I have to wear boots on a boat? (A) No, but if you have them and the weather or the boat is going to be wet then definitely take them. Ladies, do not show up on the boat wearing high heels. Wear sneakers or something comfortable hopefully with soft soles. Men do not need to wear cowboy boots or combat boots either. Soft soled sneakers or shoes and boots work fine. (Q) Will the boat turn around and take me back if I get sea sick? (A) Most likely NO, especially if you are on a Party Boat. They will not end a trip and go back to the dock if you get sea sick. There are usually people on board, and it would not be fair to everyone to cancel their trip for you. If you are prone to sea sickness, plan your trip according to the weather forecast. If they are calling for large seas and strong winds then you should pick another day. If it s going to be a typical weather day but you re afraid to get sick then take some Dramamine, Bonine, or other motion sickness medication. It is best that you take it the night before to get it into your system and then take one on the morning of the trip and you should be fine. (Q) If we get tired of fishing what are our options? (A) Party boats are out for a certain amount of time to catch you fish. If you are tired, take a break inside the cabin or just sit out on the deck somewhere and enjoy the view. Charter boats can be a little more flexible due to only your group of friends or relatives have chartered the boat, and you can ask the captain if there are any other options. On some trips you might catch your limit of fish, and you can now go home, or practice catch and release. You could also ask the captain if there are any other species that you could fish for. Another possibility is that you could ask the captain to take you into Block Island or into a harbor for lunch or shopping. This could all be planned ahead of time too. If people become sea sick and the weather is getting worse, the captain might suggest that he find some calmer water or tie up in the Island and wait for the weather to pass. All of these possibilities and more can be had with a charter boat if you just ask the captain. I have had some anglers that caught plenty of fish and then asked me if I would take them for a sightseeing trip around Block Island to see the lighthouses, cliffs, etc. before we went home. Depending on the size of the boat and what the captains are willing to do, you can be creative as to what your charter could be. Although most of our trips are for fishing, we also do sightseeing, harbor cruises, sunset cruises, lighthouse tours, ash burials, viewing yacht races and tall ships, anchoring up to enjoy air shows, jazz and folk festivals. Check out our list of vessels on pg. 2-3, and don t be afraid to ask the captains all your questions. We strive to make your day on the water an enjoyable, and memorable event so that you will come back and visit us again and tell all your friends of the great time you had Fishing in RI. with the RIPCBA. 19

22 20 HELPFUL FISHING TIPS Many people go fishing on our charter and party boats during the season, and inevitably some of them run into problems while they are bottom fishing. Some of the problems stem from their lack of experience, or that they are fishing for the first time. Captains and mates don t mind that at all, because they can show the new anglers the correct way to use the equipment and some helpful hints too. We find that they really pay attention to what we show and tell them and they try their best to fish properly so they can catch some fish and be proud. The one crazy thing mates and captains scratch their heads on are the anglers that say they have fished for many years or have their own boats and fishing rods. It always seems that a few of the experienced anglers have more trouble with their equipment than the newbie s. I will try to explain a few of the many common problems anglers, and mates run into while fishing with conventional reels. 1. The backlash This happens when people take their fingers off the spool while they are letting line out. We always tell people to put your thumb on the spool, and with your other hand pull the lever back to put the reel into free spool. Then loosen up your thumb pressure on the spool so that the line can go out. When the sinker hits the bottom, the line will stop for a quick second, and you can push the lever back. Sounds simple right? Some people get it right away and others through trial and error figure out exactly how much pressure they have to use with their thumb on the spool to let the line go out smoothly. Still some forget and just let the line fly off the reel till it gets all Hiz and Herz Fishing Charters Offshore Shark 30 ft. single diesel Sail out of Galilee, RI Have Fun ~ Go Fishing! Captain Christopher Herz Inshore Fluke, Sea Bass, Scup Blackfish and/or Striped Bass and Blues Specializing in 4 person charter All bait and tackle included

23 tangled up in a huge backlash. 2. Reeling We always tell anglers to pay attention as you are reeling to move the line from side to side with your thumb as it goes on the reel. This will keep your line from bunching up on one side and then causing a backlash. If you have a level wind reel you do not have to worry about anything. 3. Reeling thru the tip Many anglers get so excited reeling in a fish that they don t pay attention. They are in a trance looking at the reel trying to keep the line going on the spool from side to side so it doesn t bunch up. Meanwhile the fish is already out of the water and the fish and sinker are trying to get through the eye at the tip of the rod. Not good! This can easily break the tip of the rod, and makes captains and mates go crazy trying to stretch out to grab the fish before it falls off the hook. Basically what to do is reel the fish in until you see the fish or sinker just on top of the water. Now stop reeling and just lift the rod and pull it towards you. This will bring the fish and your sinker close to the boat so that the mate can grab the line and take your fish off the hook. Don t try to swing the fish into the boat. This could cause the sinker to bounce off either the boat or someone s head. 4. Don t touch anything on the reel. That means the drag or any other things on the reel Continued on page 22 Carol - J 21 All equipment and bait is provided sharks ~ bonito striped bass ~ bluefish fluke ~ sea bass scup ~ blackfish home: cell: ft. Casco Bay Diesel Sportfisherman Captain Paul B. Johnson Sr. 30 Gooseberry Rd Wakefield, RI pbjfishing@yahoo.com

24 22 Continued from page 21 that you can turn or move. The drags are set by the mates or captains ahead of time and if the drag is slipping and you need more drag, tell the mate if he hasn t already shown up on your side to help you. Drag is there for a reason. The reels are not supposed to be cranks that you just wind up. You are fishing with a rod and reel. That means to use the rod and the reel together. Lift the rod to get the fish to start coming off the bottom, and just turn the reel as you lower the rod down in the same motion. Then lift the rod again and reel it right back down again. If the fish puts up a fight and drag starts to slip and lets the line out, just hold on and enjoy the fight. The drag is doing its job. Once the fish stops pulling, lift the rod and reel down again. As for other things on the reel that turn. There is a bearing on the left side of the reel that adjusts the spool. Leave it alone. If you play with it, you could loosen it up too much and it will fall overboard and mess up the reel. On jigmasters there is a little locking screw that some people turn by accident thinking they are adjusting the drag. This screw is what holds the whole side of the reel on. If you play with that screw, the reel could fall apart at any time. I had this happen once when an angler loosened up that screw thinking he was adjusting the drag and JACKHAMMER CHARTERS Inshore Offshore Tournaments Sport, Recreational Family Fishing State of the art electronics for finding fish and transporting you safely to & from the fishing grounds Trips with children are always given special consideration Sails from Snug Harbor Capt. Jack Carpenter (401) CaptJackHammer@aol.com Cod, Sharks, Striped Bass Sea Bass, Scup, Fluke We set the trip times to accommodate your groups needs

25 a few minutes later the whole side of the reel fell off into the water, and the spool fell out too. Now that reel has become spare parts. 5. Stuck on the bottom If you get stuck on the bottom while anchored up fishing, don t panic and start tugging and yanking the rod back and forth and trying to reel up the rock. Let the mate know you are stuck, and he will probably tell you to let some line out and wait a while. Many times while you are stuck a fish will come along and eat your bait and get hooked. Then he will swim out of the rocks and free you from the hang. Sometimes the mate has to bounce the rod around a little a try to feel if there is any slack or he might wrap your line around the reel and gently pull your gear free. Many times it is not rocks but kelp or sea week that you are hung up in, and a little pressure will free you. Don t grab the rod near the tip and try to pull or yank your line out, because many times all you do is snap your rod or break your gear off. Also there is a good chance you can hurt yourself by getting a line cut in your hand or fingers, especially if you have braid line. 6. Letting too much line out You want to use just enough weight to hold bottom. If your line is constantly moving away and you keep letting line out, you are going to be fishing off the bottom or too far away to really feel any fish bites. Mates will constantly check your lines as you are fishing and if they see your line is way out, they will tell Continued on page 24 Sport Fishing on the CATCH THE EXCITEMENT OF R.I. SPORTFISHING CUSTOM BUILT SPORT-FISHERMAN SAFE, DEPENDABLE DIESEL POWER CAPACITY - 6 PASSENGERS STATE OF THE ART ELECTRONICS CUSTOM OUTFITTED FOR ALL TYPES OF FISHING INSHORE, OFFSHORE, CANYON FISHING OVERNIGHT TRIPS AVAILABLE EVENING CHARTERS AVAILABLE ALL GEAR PROVIDED LIGHT TACKLE A SPECIALITY! Sailing from Point Judith Rhode Island FishSakarak@aol.com For information & reservations: CAPT. MITCH CHAGNON 140 Winter Berry Rd Saunderstown, R. I (401)

26 24 you to reel up and put a heavier sinker on. Sometimes while drifting you can keep letting line out to stay on the bottom, but once it gets out too far you have to reel it back in and start over again. 7. Don t cast You are in a boat not on shore. There really is no need to cast your lines out. You can lose your grip on the rod and it could go sailing away into the water, or your line could get hung up and the sinker could fly back and hit someone else on the boat or the boat itself. You really want to fish right in front of yourself and straight down. Not over someone else s gear. If you have no luck in that spot then move to another spot on the boat. Well these are just a few helpful hints on bottom fishing. The more you go fishing the better you will become. Don t become one of those anglers that complain that the reel is broken because you can t winch the fish in. Use your rod and a proper drag setting and enjoy the fight. Fish aboard Boats that display our Logo Cod & Pollock April & May Over 50 years of fishing experience Misty Stripers & Fluke May thru September Capt. Mark Ambrosia Capt. Andy Ambrosia 81 Bayfield Dr. Wakefield, RI Stripers, Sea Bass & Scup August thru November Sailing from Gailiee 43 ft. of comfort & safety (401) Call for Rates, times and availability Your enjoyment is our first concern - Full Time Business - April thru December - Combination Trips Daily - Full, Half & Twilight Trips available - All Equipment Furnished - Family & Pros Welcomed Blackfish & Sea Bass October thru December MistyBoat@ verizon.net

27 25 Report a Violation RI DEM Enforcement Division (402) For the latest in RI Fishing Regulations go to: Tuna - Sharks - Mahi Mahi Striped Bass - Blues Cod - Scup - Fluke Tautog - Sea Bass E MAIL: CaptainSteve@LadyKcharters.com Sails from Snug Harbor Marina 410 Gooseberry Rd. Wakefield, RI Lady K 43 ft custom sportfisherman Harbor Tours Family Outings Island Cruises Ash Burials at Sea One of RI s newest, fastest, cleanest, most comfortable Charter Vessels. Full complement of Safety, Navigation & Fishing Gear, Galley, Private Head, Huge Cockpit (14+ ft. wide), Fully Enclosed Seating, Twin 600HP Diesels Ask about our mid-week Specials Capt. Steve Babigian H: (401) C: (239)

28 26 BOOK A CHARTER BOAT! Seems pretty easy to do, and most people believe if you charter a boat, you must be going fishing. Well just like the world we live in, times have changed and so have the uses of CHAR- TER BOATS. Most people used to believe that charter boats were only a means to go out on the ocean and catch fish. Some people were happy if they caught enough fresh fish for dinner, meanwhile others wanted to catch enough fish to fill up their freezers for the winter. Then there are the people that think charter boats are available to take them cruising or to a vacation destination. Another popular usage is viewing Lighthouses, Harbors, Islands, Yacht Races, or Sunset and Dinner Cruises. Weddings, bachelor and bachelorette parties, as well as college booze parties have now become a new adventure. Another very popular attraction available on Charter and Party Boats, is whale watching and nature tours. Diving and snorkeling adventures have always been a great business for some charter boats, and that has spread now from diving on wrecks and reefs, to diving in cages to interact with sharks and various marine life, as well as spear fishing for game fish and sport. Lately another new venue for charter boats has arisen. Ash Capt. Sheriff s Fish ON 5, 6 and 8 hour trips Inshore, Block Island & Offshore Charters for Morning, Afternoon and Evening Charters 29 Sea Vee Center Console Sails from Galilee & Newport RI Specializing in light tackle for: Striped Bass, Blues, Fluke, Tautog, Sea Bass and Scup Sheriff61@msn.com Captain John Sheriff 81 Hardig Rd Warwick, RI (401)

29 27 Burials, has become a new trend as a final resting place for our loved ones. Some folk s last requests were to have their ashes scattered by their loved ones into a body of water that they used to swim or fish in, or enjoyed viewing from the shore. There are many different types and sizes of charter boats. There are the small center console boats that are fast, but can only carry 2-4 people comfortably. Then there are the larger charter boats that are allowed to carry up to 6 anglers. These come with all different types of accommodations and amenities. Some of these boats are just larger open boats that can carry 6 people, or they have an open cabin and plenty of space to fish in. While others tend to have less fishing room and more seating either outside or in a cabin or flying bridge. Some have enclosed cabins, towers, flying bridges, stand up heads, galleys, showers, and berths to sleep in. Then there are other charter boats that are allowed to carry more than 6 people. They are what refer to as an Inspected Vessel. These vary in sizes too. They could be as little as 30+ feet and up to 150 feet and more. Basically you have to do your homework and ask questions when you are looking for a charter boat. If you have a large party of people you most likely would want to contact a Party or Head Boat. If you have older people or someone that doesn t want to be out in the sun all Continued on page 32 Point Judith to Block Island LIGHT TACKLE FISHING ABOARD CAPT. NORM S FULLY EQUIPPED 23 CC SEACRAFT FOR 1 TO 3 PEOPLE AFFORDABLE RATES HALF OR FULL DAY TRIPS OR CUSTOMIZED CHARTERS BY THE HOUR Blues Fluke Bonito Porgies Sea Bass Striped Bass Call or Write Captain Norm Bardell P.O. Box 2041 Woonsocket, R.I busyline2@gmail.com