The awful winter and lack of a spring here in New England have kept the ocean temp down therefore most of our favorite saltwater fish have yet to start moving. We should see cod, bass, flounder and mackerel in the vicinity of May 7. Codfish is now open with 9 fish at 19 inches , but starting May 1 the size limit jumps up to 21 inches. Pond and stream fishing has been much better with the Massachusetts stocking program leading the way. Brook trout were released a month ago, after that were the rainbows, and we should get some tiger trout soon, Local ponds include Tack Factory pond, Norris reservation, Chandlers pond. The South river, 3rd herring brook, Indian Head and Bound brook have been stocked also. Plenty of movement by pickerel and perch, largemouth and crappie have been a little slow to get moving.
I am really hoping for a productive season in the salt water, the bass the last four to six years has seemed to decline in our area, there is supposed to be an abundance of small fish this year because of a big rear class in 2011. Bluefin and bluefish did nor happen last year so this could be the year we get a new class of tuna or some pogies and bluefish. We will see !
-Pete Belsan
Belsan Bait & Tackle