FLY FISHING THE DEERFIELD RIVER IN MASSACHUSETTS
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The Deerfield River, located in Northwestern Massachusetts,
is an outstanding trout fishery consisting of large stockings
of Rainbows as well as Browns and Brook trout from state
run hatcheries. Flowing out of the Haramon Reservoir
located in Vermont, this unique river makes a its journey
into Massachusetts before emptying into the Connecticut
River, flowing behind The Deerfield Academy Grounds,
located in Old Deerfield Massachusetts. The Deerfield
is regulated by a series of five dams in Massachusetts.
Starting at Fife Brook, you will find waters and fishing
conditions to your liking and with plenty of trout throughout.
Depending upon water flows and temperatures, April is
generally the start of trout fishing and good fly fishing
can be had right into early December. In all sections
of the river you can find many nice holdovers and an
occasional wild browns and brookie. Rainbows seem to
average twelve to sixteen inches with the occasional
seventeen to twenty inch fish bending your rod. Trophy
Brown trout are definitely there along with many two
to three pound class trout.
In the early season you will see many fishermen using
spinning gear. As the days grow longer and warmer the
fly fishers are spotted in most areas. During the early
season, the trout are a little less selective in their
feeding habits, but as the season moves on you must use
your fishing skills and your fly selection will become
more critical.
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There
are two catch and release areas on the Deerfield and
fly fishing in these areas can be outstanding and rewarding.
Check all the Fishing
Regulations before going out and remember
as the season grows longer the fish become much wiser.
These trout have seen just about every fly and every
possible way to present it, so matching the hatch is
important and don't be afraid to try that ugly thing
on your hat! These areas can also be very crowded so
be prepared to some walking. |
The
Deerfield is made up mostly of deep runs, riffles, and
large still water pools. The riverbed is mostly rock
and boulders so cleated waders are recommended to keep
your footing. Water conditions on this river can change
rapidly (within minutes) with the water releases used
for generating power. If you're not familiar with the
water, be smart, pay attention, watch and listen for
changing conditions. When the dams hold back, the river
is fished and waded much easier.
Below Bardwell's Ferry and above Old Deerfield, deep
and large mud bottom pools can be found, with Stillwater
being a popular one. Stillwater pool is found just above
the Rte 91 bridges which cross over the Deerfield.
Below Fife Brook, with a dam just above it, the river
flows through pools such as Diamond Pool, Long Pool,
Carbis Bend, and Shady Pool. The lower Catch & Release
area starts at the railroad underpass, just above where
Pelham Brook runs into the Deerfield, and runs for about
two miles before it ends at the Mohawk Campgrounds. Access
to the river is generally easy. There are numerous designated
access points as well as other areas to pull over and
fish. Route 2 (Mohawk Trail) as well as Zoar and River
Road, which borders the Deerfield all the way to Fife
Brook, provide parking and pathways to the river.
Fish an area and move if you're not successful. Massachusetts
keeps this river well stocked so finding fish usually
isn't a problem. Like all fishing, it may be waiting
for the water temperatures to warm enough for them to
take and flows to allow for safe fishing. Either way
be patient with the fishery. The opportunity is there
to hook or catch a good number trout and an occasional
trophy in the twenty inch plus class. To protect this
wonderful Massachusetts fishery, please catch and release
whenever possible.
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