News  Fishing—the ultimate analog adventure

Remember summers in the 80s and 90s—riding bikes until dark, running through the sprinkler, and spending long afternoons outside with friends and family without a screen in sight? This summer, families can bring back that old-school summer magic by planning some outdoor analog adventures without needing expensive gear or a far-off destination. Some of the best outdoor experiences happen close to home—at a local pond or neighborhood park.

Fishing is the ultimate analog adventure for kids, families, or for those who want to reconnect with their inner child! Whether casting from a dock, shoreline, or canoe, freshwater fishing offers a unique combination of outdoor exploration, patience, and anticipation that makes every outing memorable. New anglers don't need fancy equipment to get started. A simple rod and reel, a bobber, a little curiosity, and some bait are often all it takes.

Grab your sunscreen, pick a spot on the map, and start making your own summer fishing memories using the resources on this page. Don't forget your freshwater fishing license, required for anglers 15 or older.

Fishing with kids

A "90s summer" isn't about going backward. It's about making space for the kinds of experiences that help kids build confidence, curiosity, and a connection to nature. The key to fishing with kids is to keep it simple and focus on fun. Skip rocks, look for frogs, or identify birds. Sometimes the best part of a fishing trip isn't catching a fish—it's spending time outdoors together and discovering something new.

These 10 expert tipswill help you plan a smooth, successful family fishing trip they’ll remember for years to come.

Add a fishing challenge to your summer bucket list

A little competition can make summer even more memorable. MassWildilfe’s Freshwater Sportfishing Awards Program turns every fishing trip into a chance to earn bragging rights. Anglers who catch qualifying fish can earn a collectible bronze pin, while top catches earn gold pins and special recognition. There are separate categories for youth and adults. Whether you're chasing your first pin or trying to catch a variety of species, it's a great way to turn a summer of fishing into an ongoing quest. See how many species you can catch before summer ends! 

Build your fishing skills

Ready to level up your freshwater game? For intermediate or experienced anglers, summer offers unique challenges—and big rewards. Whether you're chasing trout in the cool depths or hunting for largemouth bass lurking in the weeds, a smart strategy can make all the difference.

Bring on the bass: To catch more bass, it helps to learn about the habitats and behavior of largemouth and smallmouth. Get bass fishing tips for when and where to fish, how to select a spot on the water, and what equipment to use.

Catch, clean, and cook panfish: Knowing where and how to target bluegill, perch, crappie, or pumpkinseed can lead to a successful day on the water. Discover tips for finding panfish, selecting tackle and bait, and turning your catch into a fresh, flavorful meal. 

Targeting trout in summer: As water temperatures rise in the summer, coldwater fish like trout become harder to find. Find out how to use depth maps to target trout in cool layers of lakes.

More fishing resources to help you reel in summer memories

• Go Fish MA! digital fishing map
  Browse hundreds of fishable lakes and ponds, get waterbody information, find a place to launch your boat or kayak, or find a bait shop.
• Accessible fishing
  Find fishing piers and platforms designed to be usable by anglers of all abilities.
• Learn to fish classes
  Find a class near you; all experience levels welcome.
• Campsites for fishing
  Pick a place to camp near a great place to fish.
• Top waterbodies to explore from a canoe or kayak