Back during Massachusetts’ Free Fishing Weekend in June, HooRWA held a free workshop, “Introduction to Fishing on the Hoosic River River”. The instructors were very helpful, teaching us the basics of both fly fishing and bait fishing. The instructors were knowledgeable, inspiring appreciation for the sport and teaching us everything from how to identify which bait works best to how to tie a fishing knot. We met at the pond upstream of Lauren’s Launch. We met a few other fishers and saw a variety of fish in the river. I even got a few fish to bite! The other attendees seemed to enjoy the event, and I wouldn’t be surprised if some got their own fishing licenses soon.
Species of fish you may find in the Hoosic, include largemouth bass, channel catfish, and 3 species of trout. Brook Trout are indicators of a healthy river, as they are highly sensitive to changes in water temperature, acidity, and oxygen levels, as well as pollutants.
Free fishing days offer people an opportunity to try out fishing without having to pay for a license. Though Massachusetts and Vermont only hold one free fishing weekend per year, New York hosts two and has another one free fishing day coming up September 23rd to celebrate National Hunting and Fishing Day.
HooRWA is committed to creating and maintaining a fishable and swimmable watershed. We hope to see even more people participating in the free fishing weekend next season!
Lucas Forman, HooRWA Intern
