Rhode Island state waters, out to 3 miles
Harvest, landing, or possession prohibited in RI marine waters.
RI DEM 2026 · checked · the official rulebook is the final word
Rhode Island state record
RI DEM Saltwater Sportfish Records · checked 2026-08-23
How to tell it
Deeper body, jaws even; the classic spring run. More on the American shad page: every state’s rule, the records, and how anglers catch it.
American shad in other states14 rulebooks
Questions anglers ask3
Can you keep American shad in Rhode Island?
No. Harvest is prohibited in Rhode Island. Release it in the water where you can. Harvest, landing, or possession prohibited in RI marine waters.
What is the Rhode Island record American shad?
6 lb 8 oz, Runnins River (1985).
How current is this Rhode Island American shad rule?
Source: RI DEM 2026, last checked Sep 20, 2026. A watchman re-reads the agency's pages nightly. Rules change mid-season by proclamation; the official rulebook is the final word.
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