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Caught a trophy Atlantic Sharpnose Shark in Narragansett
Atlantic Sharpnose Shark Fishing in Narragansett
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The Atlantic Sharpnose Shark belongs to the order Carcharhiniformes and family Carcharhinidae. This smaller shark species typically measures between 39 and 48 inches in length, with weights ranging from 7 to 9 pounds. These sharks prefer shallow, warm waters along the Atlantic coast, making Narragansett Bay an excellent habitat during summer and fall months. - Recognizable by their long, pointed snout and streamlined body - Body coloration is brownish to olive-gray with a white underside - Small white spots often visible on sides and fins
Fishing Charter by Captain Diego Vargas in December
Meet your Captain Diego Vargas
- Best Fishing Adventure in Rhode Island!
Summary
Sunday October brought perfect conditions for our inshore fishing adventure with Rogue Charter in Narragansett, RI. Captain Diego Vargas knows these productive waters well, especially during fall when conditions transition from overcast mornings to clear afternoons. Our 6-hour trip focused on drift fishing and bottom fishing techniques while mixing in some casting with lures. The structure around Point Judith creates ideal habitat for various species, including Atlantic Sharpnose Shark. Though we targeted tautog primarily, the diverse inshore ecosystem of Rhode Island waters kept us busy all day with steady action. Whether you're an experienced angler or bringing the family, Captain Diego tailors the experience to your skill level, providing all necessary gear and local knowledge to maximize your time on the water.
Fishing Charter with Diego Vargas – Rates & Booking
Captain Diego Vargas of Rogue Charter on Sunday October offers this Extended Half Day Tautog Fishing Trip for $600, accommodating up to 4 guests on a comfortable 6-hour adventure. Departing at 6:00 AM, you'll target tautog and potentially Atlantic Sharpnose Shark using both light and heavy tackle provided by your experienced captain. All fishing licenses, quality gear, and ice for your catch are included, making this an excellent value for a private charter experience. Available from September 1 to October 31 on Tuesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, this trip fills quickly during prime fall fishing season.
Highlights of Extended Half Day Tautog Fishing Trip In Rhode Island
This 6-hour adventure provides ample time to experience Rhode Island's productive inshore fishing grounds. Captain Diego targets structure-rich areas around Melville and Point Judith where tautog and other species congregate. The trip employs multiple fishing techniques including drift fishing, bottom fishing, and casting with lures to maximize your chances of success.
Fall brings ideal conditions to Narragansett's waters, with cooling temperatures activating the inshore bite. The trip's extended duration allows your captain to adapt to conditions, moving between locations as needed to find active fish. With a maximum of 4 guests, everyone receives personalized attention regardless of experience level, making this an excellent option for families and mixed-skill groups looking for consistent action.
Local Species Insights: Atlantic Sharpnose Shark
The Atlantic Sharpnose Shark frequents Narragansett's inshore waters during warmer months, typically found over sandy bottoms and around structure in depths of 10-40 feet. These small but spirited sharks provide exciting battles on medium tackle. While tautog remains the primary target on this trip, encountering these sharks adds an unexpected thrill to your fishing day. Captain Diego knows exactly how to identify productive areas where these predators hunt, particularly around tide changes when baitfish movement increases. Their presence is a testament to the healthy, diverse ecosystem of Rhode Island's coastal waters.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
Rogue Charter provides a well-equipped fishing boat that comfortably accommodates groups up to 4 people. Bring weather-appropriate clothing (layers recommended even in fall), sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a camera to document your catch. A cooler with snacks and drinks is suggested as meals aren't included. The captain provides all fishing gear, bait, and technical instruction. For early morning departures, arrive at the dock 15 minutes before the scheduled 6:00 AM start time. The relaxed pace of drift fishing makes this trip suitable for most physical abilities, though some sea conditions may be encountered.
Fishing in Narragansett: Atlantic Sharpnose Shark
The Atlantic Sharpnose Shark (Rhizoprionodon terraenovae), a member of the Carcharhinidae family and order Carcharhiniformes, is a smaller shark species frequently encountered in Narragansett's coastal waters during warmer months. Distinguished by its pointed snout and streamlined body, this shark features a brownish to olive-gray coloration with distinctive white spots along its sides and fins.
Atlantic Sharpnose Shark Overview
This smaller species of requiem shark is known for its slender build, pointed snout, and relatively small size compared to other sharks. Popular among recreational anglers in Rhode Island, the Atlantic Sharpnose provides an exciting catch without the extreme danger or handling difficulties of larger shark species.
Atlantic Sharpnose Shark Habitat and Distribution
These sharks primarily inhabit shallow, warm coastal waters of the western Atlantic, ranging from New Brunswick, Canada to the Yucatan in Mexico. Around Narragansett, they're most commonly found in nearshore waters during summer and early fall, particularly over sandy bottoms, around inlets, and near structure in depths between 10-60 feet.
Atlantic Sharpnose Shark Size and Weight
Typically measuring between 39 and 48 inches in length, Atlantic Sharpnose Sharks are considered a smaller shark species. Their weight generally ranges from 7 to 9 pounds, making them manageable catches on medium-weight fishing tackle while still providing a spirited fight.
Atlantic Sharpnose Shark Diet and Behavior
These opportunistic predators feed primarily on small bony fish, squid, shrimp, and crabs. They're known for their quick, aggressive feeding style and will often hunt in small groups. Most active during dawn and dusk, they may feed throughout the day in darker or turbid waters—conditions frequently encountered in Rhode Island's inshore waters.
Atlantic Sharpnose Shark Spawning Season
Atlantic Sharpnose Sharks are viviparous, meaning females give birth to live young after a gestation period of 10-11 months. Mating typically occurs in late spring and early summer, with pupping taking place the following spring in shallow nursery areas. In Narragansett waters, juvenile sharks may be encountered more frequently in protected bay areas.
Atlantic Sharpnose Shark Fishing Techniques
When targeting these sharks in Narragansett, medium spinning or conventional tackle spooled with 20-30 lb test line works well. Fresh cut bait like mackerel, menhaden, or squid produces the best results. During October in Narragansett, they're often found near structure and channel edges where tidal movement concentrates baitfish. Fishing with a fish finder rig on a sliding sinker keeps bait near the bottom while allowing the shark to run with minimal resistance.
Atlantic Sharpnose Shark Is It Good to Eat?
While less commonly harvested than some other shark species, Atlantic Sharpnose is considered good table fare when properly handled. The meat is mild, firm, and white with a texture similar to swordfish. It can be grilled, baked, or used in fish tacos. As with all sharks, immediate bleeding and icing is essential to prevent ammonia buildup in the flesh. The meat is high in protein and provides a good source of omega-3 fatty acids.
Atlantic Sharpnose Shark Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for Atlantic Sharpnose Shark?
A: Fresh cut bait like mackerel, menhaden (bunker), or squid works exceptionally well. Oily fish that create a strong scent trail are particularly effective in Narragansett's waters.
Q: Where can I find Atlantic Sharpnose Shark near Narragansett?
A: Look for these sharks around sandy bottom areas near inlets, channel edges, and areas with structure that attract baitfish. Point Judith and the approaches to Narragansett Bay are productive areas, especially during falling tides.
Q: Is Atlantic Sharpnose Shark good to eat?
A: Yes, when properly handled (immediately bled and iced), Atlantic Sharpnose provides white, firm meat with a mild flavor. It's versatile for cooking and offers good nutritional value with high protein and omega-3 content.
Q: When is the best time to catch Atlantic Sharpnose Shark?
A: In Narragansett, the peak season runs from July through October when water temperatures are warmest. Dawn and dusk provide the most productive fishing, though they can be caught throughout the day, especially on overcast days.
Q: Are Atlantic Sharpnose Sharks dangerous?
A: No, they're considered one of the least dangerous shark species to humans due to their smaller size and teeth. However, like all sharks, they should be handled carefully to avoid injury to both the angler and the shark.
Q: What tackle should I use for Atlantic Sharpnose Shark?
A: Medium spinning or conventional tackle with 20-30 pound test line is ideal. Wire leaders of 12-18 inches prevent bite-offs, and circle hooks in the 5/0 to 7/0 range work well while reducing gut-hooking for catch and release.
