Fishing Fun: 7 Massachusetts State Parks to Reel in the Big One
Massachusetts offers a variety of state parks that provide excellent fishing opportunities. From freshwater lakes to coastal estuaries and deep-sea saltwater fishing, the state has a diverse selection of fishing spots for anglers of all skill levels. While many of them are designed for the quiet of a kayak or canoe, there are some where you can enjoy fishing from a motorized vessel.
Here are some of the best state parks to check out from private boat lift rentals or marinas in the Bay State.
Myles Standish State Forest
Located in southeastern Massachusetts, Myles Standish State Forest is home to several kettle ponds (a unique Ice Age occurrence that happens when a block of glacial ice becomes stuck and melts, creating a freshwater pond), including College Pond and Fearing Pond. Anglers can catch bass, pickerel and trout. The scenic surroundings and clear waters make for a peaceful fishing experience for non-motorized boating, such as in a canoe or kayak.
- Water: Fresh
- Key Species: Bass, trout, pickerel
- Fishing Type: Shore, canoe, kayak
Otter River State Forest
Otter River State Forest, located in north-central Massachusetts in Baldwinville, sits at the junction of the Miller and Otter Rivers. It offers access to Beaman Pond, which is stocked with trout and is a great spot for shore fishing. The peaceful setting makes it an excellent getaway for anglers looking to escape the crowds and enjoy the day paddling about in a canoe or kayak. Swimming, hiking and camping (yurts are available) are also popular.
- Water: Fresh
- Key Species: Trout
- Fishing Type: Canoe, kayak, shore
Mohawk Trail State Forest
Situated in the scenic Berkshires, Mohawk Trail State Forest in Charlemont provides access to the Deerfield River, which is a top spot for fly fishing. Anglers can target trout in the cool, clear waters of the river, which is regularly stocked and supports wild fish populations as well. The park has 18 miles of rivers and streams as well as picnic areas, hiking trails and restrooms.
- Water: Fresh
- Key Species: Trout
- Fishing Type: Shore, fly
Nickerson State Park
Located on Cape Cod, Nickerson State Park is home to several kettle ponds, including Cliff Pond and Higgins Pond. These ponds are stocked with trout and offer great opportunities for both fly fishing and traditional angling from boats, kayaks and canoes. It’s important to note that motorized boats are restricted to a maximum of 10 horsepower. The park does offer boat rentals if you don’t want to trailer your boat from the private boat dock rental or from home.
- Water: Fresh
- Key Species: Trout
- Fishing Type: Shore, fly, kayak, canoe, boat
Halibut Point State Park
For those who enjoy saltwater fishing, Halibut Point State Park in Rockport is an excellent coastal fishing location. Anglers can fish from the rocky shore for striped bass, bluefish and other saltwater species while enjoying tide pools and stunning coastal views. There aren’t designated boat launch sites within the park, but you can launch from a marina or private boat slip rental nearby and arrive by water.
- Water: Salt
- Key Species: Bluefish, striped bass
- Fishing Type: Boat, shore
Savoy Mountain State Forest
Savoy Mountain State Forest, in Savoy in Western Massachusetts, features remote fishing opportunities in North Pond and South Pond. Both are stocked with trout. The serene, wooded setting provides a tranquil experience for those seeking solitude while casting a fishing rod and reel from a canoe or kayak. Motorized boats are not permitted.
- Water: Fresh
- Key Species: Trout
- Fishing Type: Shore, canoe, kayak
Pearl Hill State Park
The 1,000-acre Pearl Hill State Park, located inTownsend in Northern Massachusetts, is home to Pearl Hill Brook and nearby ponds that are great for casting for bass and sunfish. The surrounding forested areas make for a beautiful backdrop while fishing. It’s also popular for hiking, camping and mountain biking.
- Water: Fresh
- Key Species: Bass, sunfish
- Fishing Type: Shore
