Join the fun at this free, non-competitive, family-friendly, learn to fish event held at two locations – the Great Falls Discovery Center in Turners Falls, MA and Barton Cove Campground in Gill, MA.
Hop on the shuttle bus, sponsored by FirstLight Power, at the Great Falls Discovery Center to ride to the Barton Cove Campground for free fishing. Bring your fishing equipment or borrow ours; limited equipment and bait will be provided. Fishing is open to the public and no license is needed. No pre-registration is required; contact Jim Lagacy at (508) 389-6309 or jim.lagacy@mass.gov for more information on fishing at Barton Cove.
Meanwhile at the Great Falls Discovery Center, the Western Mass Fly Fishermen offer free fly lure tying demonstrations. Make your own lure! Come see a guest fish from the USGS Conte Anadromous Fish Research Lab, most likely a Shortnose sturgeon. Make your own fish print to take home, also known as the art of Gyotaku, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Great Falls Discovery Center with FirstLight Power’s Northfield Mountain Recreation and Environmental Center staff.
Parking is free at both locations, although there is limited space at Barton Cove Campground, so the shuttle bus is recommended. Adults and children of all ages are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Event is held rain or shine.
Fishing equipment provided – limited supplies available. Bring your own pole if you have it.
Sponsored by: MassWildlife, Western Mass Fly Fishermen, First Light, Turners Falls Fishway, Friends of the Discovery Center, and USGS.
It’s easy to learn to fish. All you need to get started is some simple gear and a little practice! Read fishing tips and watch tutorial videos. Use our fishing map to find places to fish near you! You can also explore trout stocked waters or handicapped accessible fishing sites.
