Massachusetts is known for their robust stocking program, and they are not slowing down as we crossover into fall fishing. The MassWildlife website says that a total of 65,700 trout will be stocked in waterbodies across the state this fall, and by the time you read this, these stocking efforts will be well underway!
MassWildlife stocks brook, brown, rainbow, and tiger trout each spring and fall, and this year’s fish are said to be “bigger and better than ever”. While the quantity of stocked trout has remained about the same for the last decade, MassWildlife has been steadily producing larger trout by adjusting hatchery growing techniques. Just 10 years ago, less than 60% of Mass’s stocked trout were over 12 inches—now, more than 80% measure over a foot! As of this writing the state had listed plans to stock 5,000 brown trout over 12 inches, 27,500 rainbow trout over 12 inches and an additional 33,200 rainbows measuring in excess of 14 inches! There were no publicized tiger trout stockings listed, but we will keep you posted if and when that changes.
The MassWildlife website features an interactive Trout Stocking Map (mass.gov/info-details/trout-stocking-report) where anglers can click through to see which nearby lakes, ponds and rivers were recently stocked. Additionally, on that same page, anglers can use the searchable table-style database to check recent stockings by town. Best of all, these fall releases don’t see anywhere near as much angling pressure and general fanfare as what we see in the spring, so you’ll be able to fish in relative peace and solitude, knowing you have a great chance to catch some beautiful trout. Don’t forget your Massachusetts fishing license, because those license fees play a big part in the state’s ability to keep stocking these waters, year after year.
