Saugus, MA Fishing: The Winston-Salem of the North

Saugus lies in Greater Boston in Essex County, Massachusetts. It is known for the many industries that thrived within its vicinity. This city has had it all, from ironworks to ice supply and tobacco production. 

Looking back at 1646, the first integrated ironworks in North America, the Saugus Iron Works, began its operations in this city. It was the most technologically advanced in the whole world during that time, and it was able to produce tons of iron each day. However, due to financial challenges, it had to halt its operations in the 1670s. 

Come the nineteenth century, the first ice harvesting industry in the United States started in Saugus. Frederic Tudor sliced a thick piece of ice from a family farm and then shipped it to Martinique. They realized a significant potential for this industry, and with the help of the United States Route 1, the business expanded. 

After the Civil War, Cliftondale, an urban neighborhood in Saugus, became one of the prime producers of tobacco. Besides Cliftondale, many more tobacco factories were established in this city, paving its way to earn its reputation as the Winston-Salem of the North. 

Aside from the iron, ice, and tobacco, Saugus also houses various fish to catch. With the Saugus River and many more bodies of water existing in the city, it has become a favorite fishing destination of many angling enthusiasts.

Saugus Fishing 

Fishing in Saugus is fascinating. With its different choices of fishing destinations, a one-day visit wouldn’t be enough. It has the Saugus River, Birch Pond, Lower Pond, Griswold Pond, 2nd Lake, Spring Pond, and many other bodies of water, marshes, and estuaries. 

The Saugus River is a 25-kilometer long river that passes through this city from Lake Quannapowit in Wakefield. This river is home to Massachusetts's largest lobster fishing fleets and many fish species. 

You may be able to catch different varieties of the bass family in the Saugus River, such as striped bass, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and black seabass. Aside from them, you can also find different kinds of flounder in its waters, such as summer flounder and winter flounder, and if you are after these fish, you need to make sure that you have your gig for some flounder gigging action.

Flounder gigging is an effective technique to catch many saltwater fish lying close to the seabed. This method is a lot like spearfishing and bowfishing. Except, it uses a different gear called a gig. 

Next is Birch Pond, which is a fishing and hiking ground. Portions of this pond lie in Saugus and Lynn, but it is officially recognized as a part of the Lynn Woods Reservation. It has clear waters surrounded and is close-knit with nature. 

Birch Pond houses a variety of perch, such as the American yellow perch and white perch. Aside from those, there are also chain pickerel, bluegill, and yellow bullhead caught from its waters. Anglers fishing in this pond usually uses artificial lures to catch fish. Eye jigs, twister tail grubs, flutter spoons, and spinners effectively catch perch. 

Another exciting fishing destination in Saugus is Griswold Pond. This pond is a reservoir that supplies fresh water to the state. But freshwater isn’t the only abundant supply in Griswold Pond; it also has several fish, such as pumpkinseed, black crappie, chain pickerel, and rainbow trout. 

Fly fishing is an excellent method when catching a pumpkinseed from this pond. The different and vibrant colors of flies effectively attract this fish. You opt to use red, yellow, white, and black popping bugs or black or brown nymph flies and rubber spiders. 

On the other hand,  if you want to get a bite from black crappie, baitcasting is the best fishing method. Minnows, insects, and worms effectively catch this fish’s attention. But, you may also opt for other live bits as long as they are wriggly and has a strong smell. 

These fantastic fish species available in Saugus prove that this city has one of the most incredible and exciting fishing destinations. If you want to enjoy these, make sure to buy a Massachusetts fishing license, which is available from the local fishing supply stores and in the city. Also, keep in mind to follow the Massachusetts Fishing Rules and Regulations to make your trip smooth and enjoyable. 

Top 10 Fish Species in Saugus, MA

The top 10 fish species to catch in Saugus are largemouth bass, striped bass, black sea bass, winter flounder, American yellow perch, chain pickerel, bluegill, yellow bullhead, black crappie, and pumpkinseed. 

Seasonal Fishing 

Anglers may enjoy fishing in Saugus, MA, throughout the year. However, it would help to keep in mind that the different seasons present varying challenges and opportunities. 

During spring, the different varieties of bass are actively present in the waters of Saugus. The reason behind this is that as the temperature rises, the metabolism of this fish hastens. As a result, they will need more food to survive, thus actively biting on hooks with live baits. So, if you want a hungry bass to catch, visit Saugus from March to June. 

Summer or from June to September, bluegill, bass, and other fish species move into depths as shallow waters become hotter. When this happens, it is best to search for them in ledges and deep grass lines or use a live shad or artificial lures that imitate it to lure them out.

On the other hand, from September to December, shad migration takes place. Bass and other fish species that feed on shad will move to shallower waters and eat up as much as they can to prepare for winter. Thus, using shad as bait is a great move. 

During winter, or from December to March, Saugus becomes one of the premier destinations for ice fishing. It snows in this place for up to 46 inches, and the waters can be completely frozen up. Bringing high-quality drills and ice rods is a must during this season. 

Explore the Great Expanse of Saugus

Aside from being known for its industries and exciting fishing destinations, Saugus is also close to nature. Here are some things that you can do to enjoy exploring the great expanse of this city: 

1. Swim and Have A Picnic at Breakheart Reservation

Breakheart Reservation is one of the Nature and Wildlife parks located in Saugus. The place features a 652-acre public recreation area with a hardwood forest, two freshwater lakes, and a stretch of Saugus River. 

You can enjoy your time on the reservation by hiking through an extensive trail system while being enchanted by the scenic views of Boston. Aside from that, you can also swim at Pearce Lake, which draws a crown every summer for being child-friendly. 

2. Find Hidden Passages at Wicked Escapes

Known for the most immersive and entertaining interactive adventure attractions globally, Wicked Escapes is one of the best places to try with your family and friends while in Saugus. 

It features a cell block escape room, where you will be prisoners aiming to retake their freedom. To do so, you must work together to solve puzzles, find hidden passages, and search the cell for clues on how to get out. 

3. Visit the Historical Site of Saugus Iron Works

Your Saugus journey won’t be complete without visiting the historical site of the first integrated ironworks in North America. This place represents the history of iron and steel in the country. 

In the 9-acre park, you will see the mills used for ironworks, the restored 17th century home, hot forges, and working waterwheels. Visiting here is truly an amazing experience that will take you to the roots of the iron industry in the country.