Weakfish

Weakfish, once a more common sight, still offer a rewarding challenge for anglers fishing near Westerly. These beautiful fish are known for their delicate mouths, so light tackle and a gentle touch are essential. The best time to target them is during the spring and early summer when they move into the bays and estuaries to spawn. Little Narragansett Bay and the Pawcatuck River can hold good numbers of weakfish during this period. Look for areas with grassy flats and soft bottom. Small jigs tipped with sandworms or artificial lures that mimic silversides are effective. A slow, steady retrieve is often more productive than a fast, erratic one. A helpful local tip: fish during low-light conditions, such as dawn and dusk, as weakfish are more active at these times. Also, be prepared to move around; weakfish can be nomadic and may not stay in one location for long.