We want to remind anglers planning their final Quabbin trips of the year that the 2026 boating season at Quabbin Reservoir will come to a close at the end of the day on Saturday, October 17, 2026.
While private vessel launches and rental boat operations across the reservoir’s three public launch areas will wrap up on October 17, fishing access at Quabbin Reservoir will remain open. Shoreline fishing continues through December 31, 2026, provided that the reservoir remains free of ice.
Boating Season Final Day: October 17, 2026
Designated Launch Areas:
Launch Area #1 – Gate 8 (Belchertown)
Launch Area #2 – Gate 31 (New Salem)
Launch Area #3 – Gate 43 (Hardwick)
Restricted Waters: Pottapaug Pond and O’Loughlin Pond remain closed to all boating.
Anglers heading out during this final week of the boating season should keep standard daily access and regulation requirements in mind. Parking access is $6 per vehicle ($8 with a trailer), and daily boat rentals are available for $40 per day ($14 for boat-only rentals), with half-price rates offered for seniors and individuals with disabilities; please note that credit or debit cards are required for payments at all ramps. All anglers aged 16 and older must hold a valid Massachusetts fishing license or purchase a special $5 one-day Quabbin fishing license on-site or online via MassWildlife. Additionally, any private watercraft launching must carry an intact Quabbin Boat Seal (QBS) from an approved DCR inspection site. Kayaks and canoes remain strictly prohibited.
