Despite being the smallest state in the United States, Rhode Island has some big things to offer. On top of being one of the original 13 colonies and the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, the state also has some good hunting if you know where to look.
Hunting In Rhode Island
Rhode Island Deer Hunting
A population of 19,000 deer may not seem like a lot, but when you put them into a 1,200-square mile area, that’s nearly 16 deer per square mile. Then, when you take into account that most of the deer are in the more rural parts of the state due to the dense population of people, the deer per square mile increases dramatically. This extreme density of deer is a huge advantage for hunters, as some areas have even placed a bounty on deer in an effort to decrease numbers. On top of all of this, licenses are extremely inexpensive, and some areas have unlimited bag limits. This type of situation is perfect for those hunters looking to harvest a number of does and fill the freezer with some delicious deer meat. Unfortunately, Rhode Island does not regularly produce monster bucks, likely due to the deer density, but there are plenty of solid bucks to go around. Alternatively, if you prefer a shotgun, the crown jewel of Rhode Island’s hunting opportunities is the waterfowl hunting.
Rhode Island Waterfowl Hunting
With less than 2000 waterfowl licenses sold annually, Rhode Island waterfowl experience extremely limited hunting pressure. This lack of pressure leads to high success rates for those hunters that do get out there and chase birds. On the coast, flights of scoters and eiders provide fast-flying action in a different setting than most western duck hunters are accustomed to. In addition, the Atlantic flyway brings huge numbers of geese that include the Atlantic brant, a species most western hunters will never see. To top it all off, licenses are extremely inexpensive. However, if you enjoy toting a shotgun, but prefer an over-under to a camo semi, you will want to hear about the upland hunting.
Rhode Island Upland Bird Hunts
Rhode Island has numbers of pheasant and bobwhite quail on both public and private land. While the quail population is largely wild, the state runs a weekly pheasant stocking program on public land to help bolster numbers. However, due to the small amount of public land in the state, your best bet at shooting a limit of birds is with an outfitter, and lucky for you, we are partnered with several expert operations that are listed here on HuntAnywhere. Rhode Island also has seasons for both rabbit and squirrel, both of which offer a fun and relaxed option to introduce kids to hunting or get some meat for the frying pan this fall.
Book Your Next Rhode Island Hunt
Whether you are looking to fill the freezer with deer meat, shoot a bucket list brant, or take your kids out for an afternoon squirrel hunt, Rhode Island has options for hunters of all skill levels and interests that won’t break the bank. Its close proximity to New York City and other urban areas also makes it a great option for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and spend some time in the woods. If that sounds like something you are looking for, check out our catalog of expert guides and outfitters here at HuntAnywhere.com, and give yourself that much needed weekend getaway!