Fishing Season: Open year-round

Swift River - MA

Fishing Outlook & Conditions

Water Temp:

45

Jay Aylward's Tip of the Week

This poor river. The continuation of low flows, has prolonged the tough conditions. This has greatly reduced the number of fish over here, by allowing easy access all winter to the catch and kill anglers, in the lower seasonal catch and release ares. There has also been recent reports of bait fisherman above route 9 in the year-round artificial catch and release area. I have been seeing a lot of EPO activity over here while they gather the evidence that they need. Remember that this is our resource and without protection we will loose it, so be courteous and legal. The pods are small over here so take your time to find your targets, and keep your fingers crossed for some a bump in flow in the near future. www.handmadeangler.com Be aware of COVID-19 restrictions, this river gets super busy so be aware of your social distance.

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Map of Swift River

Water Flow Data

5-Day Outlook as of 4/30/25

Things looks technical as ever over here, so be patient and focus on finding fish and using your best drifts to make the connection.

Techniques & Tips as of 4/30/25

I would say nymphing would be your best technique over here.

Local Species Available Open year-round

  • Fish Icon

    Trout

Jay Aylward's Recommended Fly Patterns

"Must-have" fly fishing patterns in descending order of importance:

Name: Colors: Size(s):
Sparkle Dun N/A
Pale Morning Dun Thorax N/A
Dave's Cricket N/A
Flying Ant N/A
Bead Head Prince N/A
Lightning Bug N/A

Sparkle Dun

A must-have in every box of trout flies

0.00

Item #749F

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Jay Aylward's Recommended Gear

Description: About Swift River

The Swift River is the outflow of the Quabbin reservoir, and is a bottom released body of water and remains cold year round. This ultra-gin clear river offers challenging opportunities for above average browns, bows, and brookies. The clarity of the water makes it look shallower than it is. Small flies and light tippets are key on this river. It sees a lot of pressure and the fish are educated. BE patient and persistent and you will be landing fish over there.

Nearest Airport:

Boston

Hatches:

BWO's Midge's Sulphers Hoppers/crickets Tricos

Best Time to Fish:

Early and late

Best Stretch:

Above the Rt. 9 Bridge

Best Access:

Route 9 Bridge