Spring in Massachusetts means one thing for anglers—trout season is here. And this year, there’s a unique opportunity for the next generation of outdoorsmen and women to get involved in a hands-on way.
The Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife) is inviting the public—especially kids—to help stock trout during school vacation week. These family-friendly events give young participants the chance to literally grab a bucket, carry fish to the water, and play a direct role in stocking local ponds, lakes, and streams.
Each spring, MassWildlife stocks more than 400,000 trout across hundreds of waterways statewide, helping create accessible fishing opportunities for anglers of all ages and skill levels. What makes these public stocking events special is that they turn what’s usually behind-the-scenes work into an interactive outdoor experience.
For kids, it’s more than just fun—it’s an introduction to conservation, wildlife management, and the traditions that define our sport. Carrying trout to the water, watching them swim off, and knowing you helped stock your local fishery is something they won’t forget anytime soon.
Events are scheduled across the state during school vacation week, making it easy for families to participate. Whether you’re raising a future angler or just looking for a great way to spend time outdoors, this is a perfect opportunity to get involved.
Here are the trout stocking events near you:
- April 21:
- Cliff Pond, Brewster – Meet at 11 a.m. at the beach area off Flax Pond Road.
- Lake Wyola, Shutesbury – Meet at 11 a.m. at Lake Wyola State Park. (Please note: No restrooms available).
- April 22:
- Hampton Ponds, Westfield – Meet at 11 a.m. at Hampton Ponds State Park using the main entrance (not the boat ramp).
- Sunset Lake, Braintree – Meet at noon at Sunset Lake at 21 Safford Street.
- Lake Quinsigamond, Worcester – Meet at 11 a.m. at Regatta Point in Quinsigamond State Park at 10 Lake Avenue North.
- Onota Lake, Pittsfield – Meet at 12:30 p.m. at Burbank Park on Lakeway Drive.
- April 23:
- Long Pond, Plymouth – Meet at 11 a.m. at the Long Pond Boat Ramp off Clark Road.
- Chicopee Reservoir, Chicopee – Meet at 11 a.m. at Chicopee Reservoir on Johnny Cake Hollow Road.
- April 24:
- Colburn Pond, Leominster – Meet at 11 a.m. at Colburn Pond at Barrett Park, 40 Barrett Parkway.
See you at the lake! 🎣