This fall, the Commonwealth’s Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife) is offering a series of free fishing classes at ponds throughout the state. The classes, which MassWildlife refers to as “events,” are designed for beginners, free, family friendly, and open to all skill levels.
According to MassWildlife, skills taught in the classes include how to set up a rod, tie knots, cast, and identify fish. No fishing license is required to take the classes.
Participants can bring their own equipment or borrow from a limited supply of gear provided at each event. Pre-registration is encouraged for most events but is not mandatory unless specified. Below is a chart of upcoming fishing events, including dates, locations, and registration details:
| Date & Time | Location | Event Details |
|---|---|---|
| September 10, 5 – 7 p.m. | Jordan Pond in Shrewsbury | Pre-registration is required; click here to register. |
| September 11, 5 – 7 p.m. | Turners Pond in Milton | Pre-registration is required; click here to register. |
| September 12, 5 – 7 p.m. | New Pond in Easton | Pre-registration is required; click here to register. |
| September 14, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. | Suddon Pond in Andover | No registration is required. Contact Jim Lagacy for more information. |
| September 14, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. | Riverside Rod and Gun Club in Hudson | Open to disabled veterans and their families; contact Jim Lagacy for more information. |
| September 17, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. | Camp Sewataro Fishing Pond in Sudbury | Pre-registration is required; click here to register. |
| September 18, 5 – 7 p.m. | Nuttings Lake in Billerica | Pre-registration is required; click here to register. |
| September 19, 5 – 7 p.m. | Barrett Park Pond in Leominster | Pre-registration is required; click here to register. |
| September 22, 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. | Wrentham Sportsman’s Club in Wrentham | Pre-registration is required; click here to register. |
| September 24, 5 – 7 p.m. | Sandra Pond in Westborough | Pre-registration is required; click here to register. |
| September 25, 5 – 7 p.m. | Old Reservoir in Lexington | Pre-registration is required; click here to register. |
| September 26, 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. | Choate Park Pond in Medway | Pre-registration is required; click here to register. |
| September 28, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. | Fearing Pond in Plymouth | No registration is required. Contact Jim Lagacy for more information. |
| October 1, 2 – 4 p.m. | Auburndale Cove in Newton | Open to adults 45+ years old. Pre-registration is required; click here to register. |
| October 3, 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. | Pomps Pond in Andover | Pre-registration is required; click here to register. |
For those unable to attend these events, MassWildlife also offers resources to learn fishing on your own, including video tutorials and how-to guides. Additionally, MassWildlife’s Go Fish MA! Map provides valuable information for targeting fish species like bass and trout during the fall.
Fall Fishing in Massachusetts: MassWildlife’s Tips for a Successful Season
As the leaves start to change and the crowds thin out, fall becomes one of the best times of the year for fishing in Massachusetts. Cooler water temperatures make species like largemouth bass and trout more active, offering anglers a prime opportunity to catch impressive fish. Here are some tips and resources to help you make the most of the fall fishing season.
Fall Bass Fishing Tips
Largemouth bass, known for their size, rapid growth, and spirited fight, are a favorite among freshwater anglers. As fall progresses, bass become increasingly active, feeding heavily to prepare for the colder months ahead.
“Bass fishing in Massachusetts heats up as water temperatures cool down,” says Cameron Young, a MassWildlife Palmer Fish Hatchery Technician. “Bass will school up and seek out larger prey to fatten up before winter. They tend to gather around remaining weed beds, currents, and drop-offs where baitfish are plentiful.”
Young recommends using large swimbaits that mimic common prey like yellow perch, bluegills, or stocked trout. Additionally, jigs that resemble crayfish, jerkbaits, and shallow diving crankbaits are highly effective in shallow waters.
Gene Ellison, a professional bass angler and MassWildlife volunteer instructor, adds, “In the fall, I like to fish in coves adjacent to main lake areas. Bass, pickerel, and northern pike will follow baitfish into these areas. My favorite lures include topwater baits, jerkbaits, spinnerbaits, and square-billed crankbaits.”
Fall Trout Fishing and Stocking
MassWildlife stocks 60,000 to 70,000 trout in waterbodies across Massachusetts each fall, providing excellent opportunities for anglers. Fall stocking, combined with spring efforts, ensures that trout fishing remains fruitful through the cooler months.
“Fall trout fishing offers something for everyone, whether you prefer lakes, rivers, flies, or worms,” says Todd Richards, MassWildlife Assistant Director of Fisheries. “As water temperatures cool, we can stock trout into waters that were too warm just a month ago.”
Richards advises anglers to be flexible with their techniques: “If one lure isn’t working, try another. Stocked trout tend to school together, so once you find them, you’re likely to have success.”
For the latest trout stocking updates, check MassWildlife’s daily reports.
General Tips for a Successful Fall Fishing Season
- Switch Up Your Technique: Don’t stick to one lure or method for too long. Try different colors, shapes, and actions to see what works best.
- Stay Quiet: Fish in shallow water are easily spooked. Take time to observe your surroundings before casting.
- Know Your Trout: Massachusetts stocks four types of trout: brook, brown, rainbow, and tiger. Understanding the differences can improve your fishing strategy. Learn more about identifying trout here.
