How Much Does a Rhode Island Fishing Charter Cost? (What You Get for the Money)

Written By Chris Correia

If you’ve been searching for a Rhode Island fishing charter, one of the first questions you’re probably asking is: how much does it cost? Whether you’re looking at a Newport RI fishing charter, a Bristol RI fishing trip, or a full offshore adventure, pricing can vary depending on the type of trip, how long you want to fish, and what species you’re targeting. In this guide, we’ll break down what impacts the cost of a Rhode Island fishing charter, what’s included, and how to choose the best trip for your group so you get the most value for your money.

Average Cost of a Rhode Island Fishing Charter

Rhode Island fishing charter prices depend on the trip length and whether you’re fishing inshore or offshore. Most charters are priced as a flat rate for the boat, not per person.

In general, you can expect pricing to fall into these ranges:

  • Half Day Inshore Trips: Typically the most affordable option

  • Full Day Inshore Trips: More time on the water and more opportunity to catch fish

  • Offshore Trips: Higher cost due to fuel and distance traveled

  • Specialty Trips: Such as trophy tautog trips or tuna trips

The best way to get an exact quote is to contact the captain, but understanding what affects pricing will help you choose the right trip.

What Factors Affect the Cost of a Fishing Charter in Rhode Island?

There are several key factors that determine the price of a Rhode Island fishing charter.

1. Trip Length (Half Day vs Full Day)

One of the biggest pricing factors is how long you’ll be on the water.

A half-day trip is a great option for:

  • Families with kids

  • Beginners

  • People on vacation with limited time

  • Quick inshore action

A full-day trip is better if you want:

  • More time fishing

  • More flexibility to chase different species

  • Better chances at bigger fish

  • The ability to fish prime tide windows

More time on the water usually means more opportunity and better results.

2. Inshore vs Offshore Fishing

Another major cost factor is whether the trip is inshore or offshore.

Inshore Fishing Charters

Inshore trips stay closer to the coastline, bays, reefs, and structure. These trips typically target:

  • Striped Bass

  • Fluke

  • Black Sea Bass

  • Bluefish

  • Scup

  • Tautog (seasonal)

Inshore trips usually have lower fuel costs and shorter travel time, making them the most affordable charter option.

Offshore Fishing Charters

Offshore trips run farther from shore and require more fuel, longer travel time, and heavier gear. Offshore trips can target:

  • Bluefin Tuna

  • Yellowfin Tuna (seasonal)

  • Mahi Mahi

  • Sharks

Offshore trips cost more, but they offer the chance at trophy fish and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

3. Fuel Costs and Distance Traveled

Fuel is one of the largest expenses for any charter boat.

The farther the trip runs, the more fuel is required. Offshore trips can burn significantly more fuel than inshore trips, which is one reason offshore pricing is higher.

4. Time of Year and Seasonal Demand

Certain times of the year are in extremely high demand in Rhode Island, especially weekends.

The most competitive dates are often:

  • Summer weekends (June–August)

  • The fall striped bass run (September–October)

  • Tautog season (October 15 – end of December)

Rhode Island has the best tautog fishing in the world, and those trips book quickly every year. If you want to fish during the peak tautog window, booking early is important.

5. Type of Fishing (Light Tackle vs Trophy Fishing)

Some trips require specialized equipment and techniques. For example:

  • Light tackle striped bass trips

  • Jigging trips

  • Offshore tuna trolling

  • Deep structure tautog fishing

More advanced trips often require more preparation, more gear, and more time on the water, which can affect price.

What’s Included in a Rhode Island Fishing Charter?

Most professional Rhode Island fishing charters include everything you need for the trip.

Typical charter packages include:

  • Boat and captain

  • Fishing rods and reels

  • Bait and tackle

  • Ice for fish storage

  • Safety equipment

  • Fish cleaning (varies by charter)

  • Local fishing knowledge and instruction

This is one of the reasons charter fishing offers great value—you don’t need to own any equipment to have an incredible day on the water.

How Many People Can Go on a Fishing Charter?

Most Rhode Island fishing charters are priced per boat, which means your group gets a private trip.

This is ideal for:

  • Families

  • Friends

  • Corporate groups

  • Bachelor parties

  • Serious anglers

The number of people allowed depends on the size and licensing of the boat. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to ask ahead of time.

Is a Rhode Island Fishing Charter Worth the Money?

Yes, for most people it’s absolutely worth it.

A private fishing charter gives you:

  • A fully guided experience

  • Access to the best fishing areas

  • The best chance of catching quality fish

  • A trip customized to your goals

  • A safer, more efficient fishing day

Instead of spending money guessing where to fish, a charter gives you a proven plan and a captain who knows exactly what’s biting and where.

How to Choose the Right Charter Trip for Your Budget

The best way to choose the right trip is to think about your group and what kind of fishing experience you want.

If You Want a Fun Trip With Lots of Action

A half-day or full-day inshore trip is a great option.

If You Want the Best Chance at Trophy Fish

Book a full-day trip, especially during fall and tautog season.

If You Want Tuna or Offshore Species

An offshore trip is your best choice, but it requires the right weather window.

If you’re not sure what to book, a good charter captain will help guide you toward the best seasonal trip.

How Far in Advance Should You Book a Rhode Island Fishing Charter?

If you want the best dates, booking early is key.

In general:

  • Summer trips should be booked 1–2 months in advance

  • Fall striped bass trips should be booked 2 months in advance

  • Tautog trips (Oct 15–end of December) should be booked as early as possible

Those late-season trophy tautog dates are some of the most in-demand fishing trips in Rhode Island.

Book Your Rhode Island Fishing Charter Today

If you’re ready to get out on the water and experience some of the best fishing in New England, booking a charter is the fastest way to do it.

Whether you want inshore striped bass and fluke fishing, or you’re looking to chase trophy tautog or offshore species, Rhode Island offers incredible opportunities all season long.

Overtime Sportfishing – Bristol, Rhode Island
Call/Text: 401-529-7140

Contact us today to reserve your trip before prime dates fill up.

Chris Correia
Next

Inshore vs Offshore Fishing in Rhode Island: Which Charter Trip Should You Book?