Whether you’re an angler from New Hampshire, Massachusetts, or any other place on the East Coast, chances are that fishing the Merrimack River is on your to-do list. And how can it not be, when it boasts everything a fisherman wants? We’re talking about an excellent fish population and waters that only get clearer every year.
If you’re coming to this watershed, you’ve probably set your sights on lunker Striped Bass, the most popular catch on the river. Carp, Atlantic Salmon, and Smallmouth and Largemouth Bass follow close behind, as well as a variety of Trout that call these waters home. Fishing is usually open from January to mid-October, though some areas and species have special seasonality.
The best fishing spots are usually accessible by boat, so hiring a local guide to lead the way is always a good idea. Trips on offer vary from 4–9 hours, so it all depends on how much time you’d like to spend on the water.
The river is over 115 miles long, so there’s a wide array of fishing spots to choose from. If you’re fishing with a charter, you’ll probably start in Newburyport, Salisbury, Nashua, or Manchester.
Wherever you cast your line, from central New Hampshire to coastal Massachusetts, rest assured that fishing the Merrimack River will be a blast!
Rules & Regulations
Local fishing charters cover all the necessary gear and licenses. Because Merrimack River flows through two states, some regulations and catch limits vary, but your guide will inform you about everything you need to know.