Some of Haverhill’s favorite fishing spots have been, or soon will be, stocked with trout, and enthusiasts can be part of the process during school vacation week when Plug Pond gets its turn.
State Division of Fisheries and Wildlife crews placed Rainbow Trout in Round Pond, officially known as Lake Pentucket, March 21, and Millvale Reservoir April 3. They’ll return for a public showing Thursday, April 24, at noon, at Plug Pond, also known as Lake Saltonstall, Haverhill. MassWildlife raises brook, brown, rainbow and tiger trout at hatcheries in Sandwich, Palmer, Belchertown, Sunderland and Montague. Haverhill, Methuen and North Andover are among more than 260 cities and towns receiving trout this spring.
“The trout stocking program is a key part of MassWildlife’s mission to enhance recreational fishing and connect people to nature,” said MassWildlife Assistant Director of Fisheries Todd Richards. “We stock high-quality trout in hundreds of beautiful waterbodies across Massachusetts—so whether you live in Greater Boston, downtown Worcester, or a small town in the Berkshires, there are ample opportunities to get outside and enjoy fishing.”
During the Plug Pond special public stocking event, families, students and fishing enthusiasts may watch trout being released and learn more about fish stocking and conservation efforts. Attendees will also have the chance to talk to MassWildlife fisheries staff and ask questions about local fish species and habitats. It’s free and no registration is required.
Officials say MassWildlife has been steadily producing larger trout by adjusting hatchery growing techniques. Just 10 years ago, less than 60% of stocked trout were over 12 inches, but now more than 80% measure over a foot.
Methuen’s Forest Lake was stocked with Rainbow Trout March 24, while North Andover’s Berry Pond was stocked April 7.