New Hampshire Fishing Reports

Seasonal News, Tips, Techniques, and Resources to Have a Great Time Fishing in the Granite State

Summer 2025

 

Well, if you are disappointed in your personal fishing season this year, you are not alone. Rain almost every weekend, the high waters and fast currents that comes with it, and multiple cold fronts have resulted in a slow fishing season for many. Don’t be too discouraged, though, there is still plenty of fishing left this summer and fun to be had! So, grab your family, friends, and a cooler full of snacks and beverages, and fish New Hampshire’s waters this summer! 



Fishing Forecast and Conditions: 

kayak fishingRejoice, because warmer and dryer weather does appear to be in the extended forecast. This will hopefully help water levels return to more normal levels eventually.  Most rivers and brooks will remain fast and high for a while, be sure to scout out these spots before committing to them as these conditions are not your friend when it comes to fishing. With rivers facing these conditions, make it a priority to fish the lakes and ponds where the water is generally more “stable” and will warm faster leading to fish being more likely to feed. Access to lakes and ponds can be more challenging, especially if you don’t have a big expensive bass boat. This interactive map displays boat ramps, cartop boat launch sites, and fishing from shore locations to help you find that fishing spot that works best for you and your family and friends.  



When planning your fishing days, keep an eye on the weather, and not just for rain. Fishing in the middle or towards the end of large warm fronts usually yields some awesome results. Also, hot days with a little bit of cloud cover are traditionally great days to wet the line during the summer. 



Summer Fishing Tips:

Boat anglers have traditionally been the kings and queens of summer angling, but this isn’t an option for everyone. Kayak fishing, however, is becoming increasingly popular alternative. A kayak gives you access to all the places a bass boat traditionally would, and the fish don’t know the difference! Without the need for a boat launch (and the drama of being at one during the summer) a kayak may offer you even more access opportunities to some awesome fishing holes. This is also a far more cost-effective option, and no, you do not need one of those fancy “fishing kayaks” to get the job done (feel free to upgrade later though). Pack a smaller tackle box, wear a life jacket, and you are ready to do some serious summer kayak fishing.  

Other Fishing Opportunities: 

Nothing is more New England than fishing the coast during the summer. New Hampshire has plenty of opportunities to catch flounder, black sea bass, and good-size stripers will be moving into our waters any day now. Don’t forget, A NH Saltwater Fishing License gives you access to fishing in Massachusetts and Maine coastal waters, making it in our opinion, the best-valued saltwater license in New England! 

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Federal Aid in Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration

Federal Aid in Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration

WSFR Logo ImageResearching and managing fisheries and teaching people about aquatic ecosystems are funded by your license dollars and by the Federal Aid in Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program. Your purchases of fishing equipment and motorboat fuels make a difference to New Hampshire's fisheries.