Guide To Great Trout Fishing Locations In Massachusetts

All about fishing for rainbow, brook, brown and lake trout in local lakes and streams.

Massachusetts offers excellent trout fishing opportunities, with various trout species inhabiting its lakes and rivers. The primary trout species sought by anglers in the state include rainbow trout, brown trout, and brook trout.

Rainbow trout are one of the most popular trout species in Massachusetts. These vibrant and hard-fighting fish are stocked in many lakes, ponds, and rivers throughout the state. Anglers can target rainbow trout using a variety of techniques such as fly fishing, spin casting, or bait fishing. Notable trout fishing locations include the Westfield River, Swift River, and Deerfield River, which provide ample opportunities for anglers to hook into these beautiful fish.

Brown trout are another sought-after trout species in Massachusetts. They can be found in both lakes and rivers, with many waters hosting self-sustaining populations. Brown trout are known for their wily behavior and can be a challenging catch, making them a favorite among experienced anglers. Anglers can employ various techniques, including fly fishing with streamers or nymphs, to entice brown trout. Waters such as the Farmington River and Westfield River are renowned for their brown trout fisheries.

Brook trout, also known as native trout or speckled trout, are highly valued by anglers for their vibrant colors and pristine habitats. Massachusetts is home to several native brook trout populations, particularly in remote streams and smaller rivers. Anglers seeking brook trout often explore the Berkshires region, where they can find hidden gems nestled among the scenic landscapes. These smaller waters often require stealthy approaches and delicate presentations to catch these elusive fish.

Massachusetts maintains records for notable catches of trout species. The state records serve as benchmarks for anglers and highlight exceptional catches. Anglers can reference the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife website for the latest state records and compare their own catches against these achievements.

Whether you prefer the challenge of targeting brown trout in rivers, the excitement of hooking into a rainbow trout in a stocked lake, or the pursuit of native brook trout in secluded streams, Massachusetts offers diverse trout fishing opportunities. With its scenic landscapes and quality fisheries, the state provides a haven for trout anglers of all skill levels to enjoy the thrill of trout fishing and potentially land their personal bests.

Trout Fishing Water In MA

Trout can be found in rivers and streams throughout the state, but much of the fishing is focused in some of the larger lakes and impoundments like Hamilton Reservoir, Lake Chaubunagungamaug, Lake Cochituate, Lake Garfield, Lake Onota, Lake Quinsigamond, Long Pond, Otis Reservoir, Quabbin Reservoir and Wachusett Reservoir and Wallum Lake. Some lakes in the state offer ice fishing in winter.

Click the images and links above for species details.

Select the best trout lures and baits

Trout spinners, crankbaits and jerkbaits work well for shallow, reasonably active fish. Salmon eggs, worms and prepared baits will work at virtually all depths.

Massachusetts State Record Trout

The state record rainbow trout was caught from Wachusett Reservoir.

The state record brook trout was taken out of Ashfield Lake.

The state record brown trout came from Wachusett Reservoir.

The state record lake trout was caught in Quabbin Reservoir.

The state record tiger trout came from Peters Pond.

Visit the Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game website for complete details and schedules for trout stocking in Massachusetts.

Watch trout fishing videos to see trout anglers in action.

Additional trout fishing information

The 5 primary trouts are the rainbow, brook, brown, cutthroat and lake trout. Browns are considered the most difficult to catch and brookies are the easiest. Pure cold water is key to survival of the trouts.

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Trout locations and info, by state.