Fishing Quabbin Reservoir

AKA: Quabbin Lake

Most Popular Fish
Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Rental Boats
Boat Launch Ramps
Local Fishing Guides
Quabbin Reservoir Fishing Video
Fishing License
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Contact Info

Quabbin Reservoir, MA

Popular Fish Species Quabbin Reservoir, MA

Smallmouth Bass

Smallmouth bass fishing is a favorite sport for many locals at Quabbin Reservoir. These fat, brown bass are plentiful and easy to catch, once located. Fishing for smallmouth bass is good anytime they are shallow - in spring, during high water, mornings in summer and during warmer fall afternoons. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap, and around grass use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In winter, spend your time on deeper structure with small worms, jigs and spoons. Largemouth bass also reside here in good numbers.

Quabbin Reservoir Popular Fish - Lake Torut

Lake Trout

Spring through Fall is the best time to be fishing for lake trout in Quabbin Reservoir. These large trout can be caught from as shallow as 15 to 30 feet in Spring and Fall, to as deep as 100 feet or more during Summer and Winter. It is a monumental help to use fish finders, or other electronics to help in locating these roaming schools of lake trout. They feed on baitfish, so jigs rigged to imitate their prey often work well straight down under the boat. Trolling with numerous set-ups, including bait and lures, can also produce good catches.

Landlocked 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 Quabbin Reservoir has grown in popularity. These are populations of Atlantic salmon that are confined to freshwater environments, unable to access the sea due to geographical barriers such as waterfalls or dams. 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. Anglers must adhere to catch-and-release practices, follow local regulations, and support habitat restoration initiatives to safeguard the future of this cherished species.

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, black crappie, rainbow trout, brown trout, lake trout, bluegill, pumpkinseed sunfish, white perch, yellow perch, Atlantic salmon and chain pickerel at Quabbin Reservoir in Massachusetts.

Pristine natural beauty surrounds Quabbin Reservoir, a 25,000-acre lake in the west-central part of the state, at New Salem. There are over 180 miles of shoreline. The area from Gates 8 to 16A, and from Gates 22 to 44 are designated areas for fishing from the bank.

Quabbin Reservoir, located in central Massachusetts, is a renowned destination for fishing enthusiasts. As one of the largest inland bodies of water in the state, this reservoir covers approximately 39 square miles and offers anglers a diverse range of fish species to target.

One of the popular fish species found in Quabbin Reservoir is lake trout, also known as togue. These prized game fish can grow to impressive sizes and offer anglers an exhilarating fishing experience. Lake trout can be targeted using trolling techniques with downriggers or lead-core lines, as they tend to inhabit deeper waters. The reservoir's deep, cold waters provide ideal conditions for lake trout to thrive.

Another sought-after species in Quabbin Reservoir is smallmouth bass. Anglers are drawn to the reservoir for the opportunity to catch these hard-fighting and aggressive fish. Smallmouth bass can be targeted using various techniques, such as casting with crankbaits, jigs, or soft plastic baits. The rocky shorelines, submerged structures, and drop-offs of Quabbin Reservoir create excellent habitats for smallmouth bass.

Quabbin Reservoir is also home to other fish species, including landlocked Atlantic salmon and stocked rainbow trout. Atlantic salmon are prized for their strength and acrobatic fights, and they can be targeted using trolling techniques with spoons or live bait. Rainbow trout, stocked regularly in the reservoir, provide anglers with excellent opportunities for catching these popular game fish.

Anglers visiting Quabbin Reservoir should be aware of fishing regulations and obtain the appropriate licenses and permits. It's important to follow catch limits, size restrictions, and any specific rules in place to ensure the preservation of the fish populations and the protection of the reservoir's ecosystem.

With its diverse fish species, exceptional fishing opportunities, and stunning natural beauty, Quabbin Reservoir offers anglers an unforgettable fishing experience in Massachusetts. Whether it's targeting lake trout, pursuing smallmouth bass, or casting for other popular fish species, Quabbin Reservoir provides a remarkable angling adventure amidst the scenic landscapes of central Massachusetts.

A DCR Quabbin Boat Seal is required for all boats. Horsepower and other restrictions in place can be reviewed here. Kayaks, canoes and other boats are available for rent at the lake. Boat launch ramps are available via gates #8, #31 and #43. This is a popular fishing destination for anglers pursuing bass, trout, crappie, sunfish, perch, salmon and pike. The closest camping is at High View Campground, several miles from the lake.

Primary fish species residing in Quabbin Reservoir

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Quabbin Reservoir Amenities

Marina: NO
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: NEARBY
RV Hookups: NEARBY
Lodging: NO
Convenience Store: NEARBY
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

Fishing Boat Rentals

Quabbin Visitors Center
Rentals: Kayaks and canoes
413 323-7221

Boating is allowed on Quabbin Reservoir, but it is strictly regulated to protect the water supply. Anglers are required to obtain a special boating permit and adhere to specific regulations and restrictions. Only non-motorized boats are allowed, and there are designated boat launch areas for access to the reservoir.

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Quabbin Reservoir Fishing Area 1 Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest section of the lake, off Old Ward Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with docks and gravel parking.

Quabbin Reservoir Fishing Area 2 Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast section of the lake, off Regulating Dam Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Quabbin Reservoir Fishing Area 3 Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, east side, off Dana Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Fishing Guides On Quabbin Reservoir

First Cast Guide Service - bass

If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.

Quabbin Reservoir Fishing Video

Fishing License

Click here for a Massachusetts Fishing License.

Camping is not permitted on Quabbin Reservoir itself, as it is a protected water supply area. However, nearby state forests and campgrounds offer camping options for those looking to extend their fishing trips. Facilities such as Quabbin Reservoir Day Use Area and Ware River Watershed Campground provide amenities such as picnic areas, restrooms, and hiking trails, allowing anglers and their families to enjoy the natural surroundings.