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A Guide To Fishing In Boston

- By Cristy Maldonado
boston-harbor
(Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kathryn E. Macdonald/U.S. Navy via Getty Images)

Many of us have childhood memories of fishing - casting our first line and getting a worm to finally stay on the hook. If you're living in Boston, there's plenty of waterfront for fishing but the question is not where to fish but where to begin. Fishing in the Boston area is less about finding places and more about choosing the right spot. This quick guide to Boston area fishing spots will offer you great ideas for both fresh and salt water fishing.

Know Before You Fish

In the state of Massachusetts, a license is required to fish in both fresh and salt water for residents over 15 years of age. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game grants permits to residents. You can learn more and even purchase a fishing permit online.

Esplanade-Cristy Maldonado
(Photo: Esplanade) credit: Cristy Maldonado

The Charles River Esplanade

If you live near the downtown area, there's no better place for you to start fishing than the Charles River Esplanade. Nearly three miles of waterfront are available for you to cast your line. Even better? The Esplanade Association, a non-profit group that maintains and protects the Esplanade walkway, offers free outdoor events along Esplanade including fishing. Simply walk up and grab a pole; the worm has conveniently been placed on the hook for you. Just cast and go. The Esplanade also includes Storrow Lagoon, a small, enclosed area that is not as busy as the larger river. If you desire some solitude, this may be a better spot.

Chestnut Hill Reservoir

Beacon Street, Allston/Brighton, Mass.

Despite its small size, the Chestnut Hill Reservoir is the perfect spot for fishing especially if you don't want to go too far. The reservoir offers plenty of space for shoreline fishing. The reservoir also has a gravel walking path perfect for runners and walkers alike.

Jamaica Pond-Anulfo Baez
(Photo: Jamaica Pond) credit: Anulfo Baez

Jamaica Pond

507 Jamaicaway, Jamaica Plain, Mass.

Part of the larger Emerald Necklace park system, Jamaica Pond is a gem located in the heart of Jamaica Plain. The pond boasts a large walking path for bikers, runners, and walkers. A large boathouse is also nearby and rents kayaks. Every spring, the city holds an annual restocking event to release thousands of fish into the pond just in time for the fishing season. To read more about Jamaica Pond and the Emerald Necklace system, visit their website.

CastleIsland-ElizabethEvans
(Photo: Castle Island) credit: Elizabeth Evans

Castle Island

Day Boulevard, South Boston, Mass.

Located at the very end of Day Boulevard South Boston, Castle Island includes many areas available for fishing along with great view of Fort Independence. Day Boulevard also includes Carson Beach, the M Street Beach, and Pleasure Bay making a visit perfect for multiple outdoor activities including running, walking, rollerblading, swimming, and everything in between. Restrooms, showers, and concession stands are also readily available.

Houghton Pond
(Photo Credit: Mass DCR)

Houghton's Pond

840 Hillside Street, Milton, Mass.

Houghton's Pond located in Milton, Massachusetts (about 25 miles outside of Boston) is part of the Blue Hills Reservation, a 7,000-acre recreational area located south of Boston. Every July, Houghton's Pond hosts a fish festival and free clinics to teach both adults and children how to fish. You can bring your own equipment or borrow equipment onsite. This year's festival takes place on July 23.

Cristy Maldonado is a Boston-based blogger in constant pursuit of fun activities in the city. Read more of her work on her website Bostonurbansafari.blogspot.com

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