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Westfield River

Boat Ramps
1
Access Points
20
Species
23

The Westfield River is one of Massachusetts' premier fishing destinations, offering anglers a diverse and rewarding experience in a scenic setting. This federally designated Wild and Scenic river consists of three main branches - East Branch, West Branch, and Middle Branch - each with its own distinct character. The Westfield flows through western Massachusetts, cutting through the foothills of the Berkshires before joining the Connecticut River. As one of the most intact river systems in southern New England, it provides over 40 miles of excellent trout fishing opportunities through picturesque gorges, tranquil pools, and vibrant riffles. The watershed covers 517 square miles with 636 miles of rivers and streams and over 4,550 acres of lakes and ponds, making it a diverse ecosystem and one of Massachusetts' best coldwater fisheries.


Fish stocking schedule

All stockings · 3

  • Brown TroutOct 5, 2026
  • Rainbow TroutSep 30, 2026
  • Rainbow TroutSep 30, 2026

Source

Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife

Updated Nov 13, 2026. Dates are as precise as the agency reports them.

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Fishing spots, boat ramps & amenities

Learn how to get on Westfield River. Uncover great fishing access points, boat ramps, and all the facilities you need for an unforgettable day on the water. Some locations shown may border or include private property. Always check property boundaries and applicable regulations before visiting. onWater's Public & Private Land layer can help you plan your access with confidence.

Know where you can legally fish on Westfield River

See public and private land boundaries along the water, turn on private parcels with owner details to know where permission is required, and find land-trust parcels that offer permitted fishing access.

Massachusetts licenses and regulations

Massachusetts Boating Regulations

When using any type of watercraft to access a body of water, it is important to follow all federal, state, and local rules and regulations. These rules and regulations include boat permitting and licensing, invasive species inspections and stamps, life jacket and PFD rules, motor size and horsepower restrictions, noise limitations, restrictions on personal watercraft, and many more. Visit the web link below for the most current rules and regulations for this body of water.

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Massachusetts Fishing License

If you are 15 years of age or older, you need a license to fish. Licenses are FREE for Massachusetts residents 15-17 years of age, and those 70 and over. You can get your license online using MassFishHunt. You must carry your license with you when fishing, either as a paper copy or on your smartphone. If asked, anglers have to display a true, complete, and legible image of a valid license. Licenses expire each year on Dec. 31. You can renew your license online at MassFishHunt or print a duplicate copy if you’ve lost it.

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Massachusetts Fishing Regulations

This river has a variety of species and regulations, including potential floating and/or watercraft restrictions. Because this river is specially managed for species, seasons, angling methods, and watercraft, it is strongly encouraged you to check all federal, state, and local regulations before fishing. Visit any of the links below, inquire locally, or contact a local fly shop to learn current regulations and restrictions.

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Massachusetts Stream Access Laws

Massachusetts protects the public right to freely pass over all waters in the state, regardless of navigability. The rights of passage include recreation. Navigable waters are those subject to the ebb and flow of the tide, are navigable in fact or simply have the capacity for navigation, commercial or recreational.

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Take Westfield River with you

The onWater Fish app keeps this water's access points, species and conditions in your pocket, with the tools you use once you're there.

  • Use the map without signal

    Download the map around Westfield River to use it offline when coverage drops.

  • Log your catches here

    Keep a private fishing journal for Westfield River to find where and when fish are biting for you.

Get the onWater Fish app

Free on iOS and Android

Water and weather conditions (10 day forecast)

See the best times to fish Westfield River and check the forecast before you go.

WESTFIELD RIVER AT KNIGHTVILLE, MA

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