Fishing For Salmon In Massachusetts
Guide to fishing for Atlantic salmon in MA.
Massachusetts offers exciting opportunities for salmon fishing, particularly in its rivers and coastal waters. Two prominent species targeted by anglers in the state are the Atlantic salmon and the landlocked salmon. The purpose of this page is to share basic information about salmon fishing and identify popular salmon waters in the state.
Atlantic Salmon
Known as the “king of fish”, Atlantic salmon live in both fresh and saltwater, which means they are anadromous. They are renowned for their impressive athleticism, and delectable taste. Native to the North Atlantic Ocean, these fish undertake extraordinary journeys from their natal rivers to distant feeding grounds in the open ocean and back again to spawn. In recent years, the allure of fishing for landlocked Atlantic salmon in lakes has grown in popularity. Landlocked Atlantic salmon in lakes exhibit similar behaviors to their sea-run counterparts, including feeding frenzies and impressive displays of strength when hooked. Anglers most often target landlocked salmon by trolling open water. The pursuit of landlocked Atlantic salmon also comes with a responsibility. Conservation efforts are essential to ensure the long-term sustainability of these populations.
It's important to note that salmon fishing in Massachusetts is highly regulated to protect and preserve these iconic species. Anglers must adhere to specific regulations, including catch limits, size restrictions, and designated seasons. It's crucial to stay informed about the latest regulations and obtain the necessary fishing licenses before engaging in salmon fishing.
Salmon fishing in Massachusetts offers anglers the opportunity to connect with these prized and majestic fish species. Whether pursuing the elusive Atlantic salmon in rivers or targeting landlocked salmon in lakes and reservoirs, the thrill of hooking into a salmon and witnessing their impressive displays of strength and agility is a memorable experience for any angler.
Salmon Fishing Lakes in Massachusetts
Coastal waters and the rivers flowing into the ocean are migration routes for many salmon. In addition, there are a couple major lakes in MA with populations of salmon. Those lakes include Lake Chaubunagungamaug, Quabbin Reservoir and Wachusett Reservoir.
Click the images and links above for species details.
Massachusetts State Record Salmon
The state record Atlantic salmon was caught from Wachusett Reservoir. Note that a brood stock program, now discontinued, had produced a state record of 22 lbs 15 oz.
Massachusetts Salmon Fishing
The preferred method for catching salmon is fly fishing. Depending on the activity level, salmon may be caught on wet or dry flies, as well as a variety of other lures and baits.
Salmon Organizations
Salmon fishing waters and information, by state.
Learn the life cycle of salmon
The more you know about the life cycle and seasonal migration of salmon, the more likely you are to be looking in the right area next time you visit Massachusetts salmon fishing waters. Visit the salmon fishing page for more information about the life cycle of the different species of salmon.
Contribute MA Salmon Fishing Knowledge
If you have information, articles or photos relating to salmon fishing in Massachusetts, which you would like to see published here, please submit them for consideration.
MASSACHUSETTS
