New to RI & saltwater - where to start?

[hubbinsd]

Hi, I'm moving to Rhode Island this summer from upstate NY. I want to try some surf & pier fishing, but I'm completely new to saltwater. Can anyone point me to any books, sites, etc. that outline the gear & techniques I'll need? Any tips on how to get started?

And what kind of fish can you get from the beaches & piers in RI? I see a lot of people talking about Stripers & Bluefish - what do y'all mean by "schoolies"? Where I come from we call them perch .

What are the tastiest fish you can get from shore?

Can't wait to get moved and get started! Thanks!

[cchobot]

Here's a great book to help you get started, lists a ton of great spots to fish:

Fishing New England: A Rhode Island Shore Guide



As far as tasty fish... Don't neglect the ugly fish... They're good eatin'

[snake slinger]

striper surf by frank dainault. schoolies are small stripers

[Islander401]

be sure to check out The Art of Surfcasting with Lures by Zeno Hromin.

[basswipe]

Another great site besides here and one that the Edge is a sponsor of is:
Striped Bass Fishing

[Whitetail111]

Any tackle shop in the area should be able to point you in the right direction for any species your after. If you want a great tasting fish....try to go after fluke! They are a great fighting fish and great table fare!! Good luck with your move!

[dmdmd]

My best advice has come from going to SWE and talking to all and anybody in the store--they fish the waters ALL the time and nothing has ever been held back (as far as I know) nor has any advice been a misinformation.