The Best Fishing Spots For Catfish In Massachusetts

Guide to fishing for white and channel catfish in MA.

Massachusetts offers rewarding opportunities for catfish fishing, with channel catfish and white catfish being two popular species targeted by anglers. These catfish provide a thrilling angling experience and can be found in various lakes, rivers, and ponds across the state.

Channel catfish are known for their scavenging behavior and their willingness to take a variety of baits. They can be found in rivers and lakes, where they often inhabit deep holes, submerged structures, and areas with slow-moving or stagnant water. Anglers commonly use baits such as nightcrawlers, chicken liver, stink baits, and cut bait to attract channel catfish. Some popular catfish fishing spots in Massachusetts include the Connecticut River, Lake Quinsigamond, and the Merrimack River.

White catfish, also known as white bullheads, are another popular catfish species found in Massachusetts. They are often found in freshwater lakes, ponds, and slow-moving rivers with muddy or sandy bottoms. White catfish are known for their voracious appetites and can be caught using similar baits and techniques as channel catfish. They are often targeted by anglers using bottom rigs with baited hooks.

The best time to fish for catfish in Massachusetts is during the warmer months, typically from late spring to early fall. Catfish are more active and tend to feed more aggressively in warmer water temperatures. Fishing during the early morning or late evening hours can also be productive, as catfish are more active during low-light conditions.

When catfish fishing in Massachusetts, it's important to be aware of the fishing regulations and obtain the necessary licenses. Following catch and size limits, practicing catch-and-release, and respecting the environment are crucial for maintaining healthy catfish populations and sustaining the quality of catfish fishing in the state.

Whether you're targeting channel catfish in the depths of a river or enticing white catfish in a serene pond, catfish fishing in Massachusetts provides anglers with exciting opportunities and the chance to reel in some impressive catches. So grab your gear, prepare your favorite catfish baits, and head out to explore the diverse catfish fishing locations that the state has to offer.

Catfish Fishing Lakes in Massachusetts

Most waters in MA have one or more species of catfish. They can be found in most rivers, small lakes and ponds. But the major lakes like Ashfield Lake, Assawompset Pond, Cheshire Reservoir, Congamond Lake, Hamilton Reservoir, Lake Chaubunagungamaug, Lake Cochituate, Lake Garfield, Lake Rohunta, Lake Quinsigamond, Long Pond, Norton Reservoir, Otis Reservoir, Quabbin Reservoir and South Watuppa Pond hold the larger populations of catfish.

Click the images and links above for species details.

What's the best bait for catfish in Massachusetts?

Choose from the top 5 all-time catfish baits and try them on local waters. Appealing to the keen sense of smell and taste could turn a so-so day into a memorable event.

Massachusetts State Record Catfish

The state record channel catfish was caught from Ashfield Lake.

The state record white catfish came out of Baddacook Pond.

Catfish Fishing Video

There are many species of catfish and even more ways to catch them. Adults range in size from less than a pound to hundreds of pounds. Catfish are found in all types of water including ponds, streams, lakes and rivers throughout Massachusetts. There are even species which spend a limited amount of time on dry land. Big giant catfish put up a very noble fight once hooked.

Additional catfishing information resources.

Catfish Conservation Group

U.S. Catfish Anglers Tournaments

Planet Catfish

Most catfish are considered bottom feeders to one extent or another. They will generally eat anything that can get in their mouth. Their strongest sense is smell which they use to locate potential food sources. Capitalizing on this sense is the primary weapon in your search for these creatures. Aggressive catfish have been caught on most types of fast moving bass lures so don't under estimate their ability to catch live bait.

Information for states with catfish.