Fishers Island Sound is a coastal saltwater sound located in southeastern Connecticut and western Rhode Island, offering a quintessential New England paddling experience with historic towns, working marinas, and stretches of untouched salt marsh. The area provides a wide range of destinations suitable for different skill levels, from calm harbor touring to more advanced open water crossings. Key public access points for launching kayaks and canoes include Williams Beach in Mystic, Connecticut, the Barn Island Boat Launch near Stonington, and Esker Point Beach and Bluff Point in the Groton/Mystic area. Stonington Point and a small boat launch by the fishing piers in Stonington are also noted put-ins. These launches are typically free of fees, though some, like Sandy Point, may request a small donation for landing.

The Sound's conditions are strongly influenced by tides and wind, requiring careful planning. Tidal currents can be strong and surging, particularly when funneled between islands like Wicopesset and Fishers Island, and can create tide races suitable for advanced skill building. Paddlers must pay close attention to tides, with specific references to paddling against a surging ebb tide and using a flooding tide to aid return progress. The area is also known for its exposure to wind and waves, with gentle swells possible in open areas and the potential for rougher conditions that attract coached training events. The presence of numerous underwater rocks makes consulting nautical charts, specifically Chart #60 for Fishers Island Sound, a critical recommendation for safe navigation.

Notable paddling routes include touring from Mystic out to Fishers Island, an inhabited island about 3.5 miles offshore which is part of New York State and offers lunch stops, though no camping. Other destinations are the historic Mystic Seaport, where paddlers can view tall ships and pass under drawbridges, the bird sanctuary at Sandy Point, and the harbors of Stonington and Watch Hill. The area is teeming with wildlife, including seals and numerous bird species like herons, egrets, and bald eagles. The overall vibe blends historic charm with natural exploration, though paddlers share the water with significant boat traffic from marinas, recreational vessels, and occasional train bridges, necessitating constant awareness.