Great Trout Fishing Locations In Massachusetts

Guide to fishing for rainbow, brook, brown and lake trout in local lakes and streams.

By AA-Fishing Staff Writers

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. The purpose of this page is to share basic information about trout fishing and identify trout fishing waters in the state.

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Fishing For Rainbow Trout

Rainbow trout are one of the most fished for trout species in the state, and can be found in numerous New Mexico lakes and rivers. Known for its tasty pink flesh, rainbows are a favorite among the vast majority of trout anglers in the state. It also appeals to the fly fisherman as it can be caught on flies as well as other small baits and lures. It feeds on small insects, minnows, crustaceans and worms. It is ideal for both sport and dining pleasure. 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. More...

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Fishing For Brook Trout

Brook trout, with their stunning colors and willingness to bite, can be found in remote mountain streams and creeks across the state. These small but feisty fish can provide an exciting fishing experience for those willing to explore New Mexico's more secluded and scenic locations. The primary food source of brookies is small insects, mollusks, crustaceans and other small fishes. In lakes where brook trout are stocked, shade over shallow cover is a great place to start. 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. More...

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Fishing For Brown Trout

Brown trout, another prized trout species, can be found in select New Mexico lakes and rivers. Many of these fisheries are attracting anglers from near and far. These elusive and wary fish offer a challenge to anglers, requiring stealthy presentations and precise casting to entice a bite. Brown trout feed on worms, minnows, insects and crustaceans. Larger browns can be taken on jerkbaits, small crankbaits and spinners. 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. More...

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Fishing For Lake Trout

Lake trout are by far the largest of the trouts. They live in deep, cold lakes and feeds on virtually all forms of flesh which exist in its home waters. It's rich flaky flesh makes it a tasty table favorite. During early spring, lake trout can often be found in the shallows of lakes, readily taking dry flies, wet flies, and other slow-moving presentations. As surface temperatures rise, these trout typically migrate to deeper waters, prompting anglers to employ trolling with heavier tackle as the primary technique using spoons and baitfish-imitating lures. More...

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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.

Trout Conservation
Trout Unlimited

Trout locations and info, by state.

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