Rhode Island state waters, out to 3 miles
200-fish limit applies to menhaden greater than 4".
RI DEM 2026 · checked · the official rulebook is the final word
Often mistaken for
Atlantic thread herringLast dorsal ray trails a long thread. Tell them apartNot listed by Rhode Island: the default applies (No size limit, no limit (hook and line); 2 quarts/person/day if taken by net).
AlewifeSingle spot only, slimmer. Tell them apartKeep the wrong fish and its rule applies.
How to tell it
Deep-bodied herring with a big black shoulder spot trailed by smaller spots; swims in tight flipping schools. More on the Atlantic menhaden page: every state’s rule, the records, and how anglers catch it.
Atlantic menhaden in other states7 rulebooks
Questions anglers ask4
What is the size limit for Atlantic menhaden in Rhode Island?
No size limit.
How many Atlantic menhaden can you keep in Rhode Island?
200/person/day (fish over 4"; unlimited under 4").
When is Atlantic menhaden season in Rhode Island?
Open year-round.
How current is this Rhode Island Atlantic menhaden 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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