Pull some spreader bars around SE of Block a little ways out.
You'll find 'em.
Big schools of them roaming around out there on some days, in addition to the random violent assault on the spread from the deep. Probably quite content munching on the sandeels and hanging out with the abundant dogfish. Maybe this year's batch just haven't been motivated to make it to RI just yet.
I agree though, overall, they seem kind of scarce.