The population of wild trout in Massachusetts is under a great deal of pressure, particularly in streams that are in the more populated parts of the state. State gaming officials and private fishing organizations encourage anglers who catch wild trout to release them, in hopes of keeping the population at a viable level. The best time to catch wild trout is in late spring and early summer.
The Massachusetts Division of Wildlife and Fisheries stocks trout streams on a rotating basis beginning in the fall. The stocking takes place over a two-week period and the starting date depends on the water temperature. The period usually begins the last week of September or the first week of October. The stocking information is listed on the agency web site, and anglers will not only be able to see release dates, but the locations where the trout have been released.
A number of municipal and private ponds in Massachusetts are also are stocked with trout raised in private hatcheries. These ponds tend to have many more fish than the average stream and often offer unique hybrids of trout that aren't available in the wild. Each location has its own rules about the number of trout you can catch and the hours you are allowed to fish. The best approach is to pick a region of the state where you would like to fish, and contact the local visitors' bureaus.
The State of Massachusetts in cooperation with local business owners have created a program that attaches a small pink tag to a limited number of trout released into specific streams. Fishermen who catch one of these tagged trout are able to trade the tag for a special prize.
Whether you are fishing for wild or stocked trout, you will need a license to fish in Massachusetts. The cost varies depending on your age, the type of fishing you want to do and whether you are a state resident. The costs of the licenses range from free to $37.50. The licenses can be obtained online and in a variety of locations statewide. They are good for the calendar year, so they expire at the end of December.
