Best Places To Fresh-Water Fish In The Boston Suburbs

With the arrival of spring and the melting snow and ice, there's definitely one segment of Bostonians that's more than excited. Fresh-water fishing doesn't necessarily require warmer temperatures, but it sure can make all of the difference. If you're looking to cast your line this spring season, try visiting any of the following five locations for some of the best fresh-water fishing in the Boston area.Remember, if you are over the age of 15 and have not gone fishing in Massachusetts before, you will need to obtain a Fishing License from the Department of Fish and Game.

Ipswich River
Wilmington, Reading, North Reading, Middleton, Topsfield, Hamilton and Ipswich, MA

Flowing for nearly 40 miles before it reaches the ocean, the Ipswich River is a favorite location for fishing enthusiasts on the North Shore and offers many different species of fresh-water fish. As many parts of the riverfront are privately owned, if you are interested in fishing, you must adhere to posted signs. The locals will tell you that fishing in some spots is best from a canoe. In addition, the river is well known as a fly fishing spot. For your trip, consider visiting the portion of the river that extends from the Peabody Dam to Middleton.

Wachusett Reservoir
West of I-495, between I-290 and I-190
West Boylston, Sterling and Clinton, MA
(978) 365-3800
www.mass.gov

With nearly 4,200 acres offering 37 miles of shoreline, the Wachusett Reservoir, part of the larger Quabbin Reservoir in western Massachusetts, is a pretty amazing spot for for fresh-water fishing. The largest fish ever caught in Massachusetts came from this reservoir, so many enthusiasts head here to fish in the hopes of catching something big. Once the reservoir is fully ice free, visitors are welcome to fish. As the reservoir's primary purpose is for drinking water, access to the pond is highly regulated. Visit the website for additional information.

Related: A Guide to Fishing in Boston

Walden Pond
915 Walden St.
Concord, MA 01742
(978) 369-3254
www.mass.gov/dcr/parks/walden

Henry David Thoreau's famous pond is not just a great location to contemplate the bounties of nature, it is also a popular fresh-water fishing location. Before visiting, it is important to call ahead to determine park capacity; no more than 1,000 visitors are allowed in the park at any given time. In addition, while there is no entry fee, visitors must pay $5 to park and are responsible for disposing of their own trash.

Horn Pond
Arlington Road and Lake Ave.
Woburn, MA 01801
www.facebook.com/HornPond

Horn Pond in Woburn is known by locals as a hidden gem. Offering both trout and broodstock salmon, visitors are sure to catch a great meal. In addition, the pond and surrounding area is teeming with wildlife, so you will have plenty to see while waiting for a tug on your line. If you are so inclined, the pond also offers jogging and hiking trails. Parking is available onsite and also on nearby streets.

Related: A Guide to Enjoying the Charles River

Spot Pond at Middlesex Fells
East of I-93 on Woodland Road
Stoneham, MA 02180
(617) 727-5380
www.mass.gov/dcr

Spot Pond at Middlesex Fells is a gleaming beauty with waters so clear that fisherman can't wait to cast their lines here. Spot Pond is located in the center of the park. Consult a park map for more details. A boating school is located onsite, and conveniences such as restrooms are provided. Free parking is available at numerous locations within the park. Consult the map and website for additional information.