Can I Keep?Winter Flounder (Blackback) Regulations in Rhode Island (2026)
Recreational winter flounder (blackback) rules in Rhode Island saltwater, as published by the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management, Division of Marine Fisheries. Last checked November 7, 2026.
Size limit
12"
Bag limit
2 fish/person/day
Season
3/1 - 12/31
Can I keep it today? Check your harbor & date
Recreational Winter Flounder (Blackback) rules in Rhode Island
- Where
- Statewide
- Size limit
- 12"
- Bag limit
- 2 fish/person/day
- Season
- 3/1 - 12/31
- The harvesting or possession of winter flounder is PROHIBITED in Narragansett Bay north of the Colregs Line of Demarcation as well as in Potter Pond, Point Judith Pond, and the Harbor of Refuge
Quick answers
What is the winter flounder (blackback) size limit in Rhode Island?
12".
How many winter flounder (blackback) can I keep in Rhode Island?
2 fish/person/day.
When is winter flounder (blackback) season in Rhode Island?
3/1 - 12/31. Whether it is open on a specific day can change by emergency rule — check today's status in the app.
More groundfish & flatfish in Rhode Island
- American plaice (dab)
- Cod
- Haddock
- Monkfish (Goosefish)
- Pollock
- Skate
- Summer Flounder (Fluke)
- Witch Flounder (Gray Sole)
- Yellowtail Flounder
All Rhode Island saltwater fishing regulations →
Source: Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management, Division of Marine Fisheries. Most anglers need a Rhode Island saltwater license or registry: get one here.