Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Swift River - West Ware - Massachusetts

Hatch Chart - Best Access/Spots - Local Fish - About

Water Flow Chart

Using Water Flow Charts & Weather Reports: Begin with our water flow charts to grasp stream velocity and volume – look for stable or rising trends to pinpoint ideal fishing times. Learn to interpret sudden spikes or drops, which can indicate potential challenges. Next, consult our weather reports to understand ambient conditions. Pairing the two, you can anticipate fish behavior, choose the right gear, and select the best fishing spots. Use these tools together for a holistic approach to your next fishing adventure.

In-Depth Weather

Directions To Location

Hatch Chart

Month Hatch Time of Day Recommended Fly Sizes Popular Fly Patterns
January Midges Mid to Late Afternoons #18-22 Zebra Midge
February Midges Mid to Late Afternoons #18-22 Zebra Midge
March Little Black Stonefly Mid Mornings to Evenings #14-18 Black Stonefly Nymph
April Blue-Winged Olives Afternoons #16-20 BWO Nymph
Caddis Early Mornings #14-18 Bucktail Caddis
May Mayfly Late Mornings to Evenings #10-16 Parachute Adams
Caddis Afternoons #14-18 Elk Hair Caddis
Stoneflies Mornings #6-10 Golden Stonefly Nymph
June Sulphurs Evenings #14-18 Sulphur Dry Fly
Green Drakes Afternoons #10-12 Green Drake Parachute
July Midges All Day #18-22 Zebra Midge
August Midges All Day #18-22 Zebra Midge
September Midges All Day #18-22 Zebra Midge
October Blue-Winged Olives Afternoons #16-20 BWO Nymph
Caddis Early Mornings #14-18 Bucktail Caddis
November Midges Mid to Late Afternoons #18-22 Zebra Midge
December Midges Mid to Late Afternoons #18-22 Zebra Midge

While we strive to ensure the precision of our hatch charts, some reflect broader river region insights. Through ongoing partnerships with local guides and fly shops, we’re committed to refining our data. Should you notice any inconsistencies or have feedback, we welcome you to reach out. 

Best Fishing Spots

The Swift River – West Ware is a remarkable destination for pursuing fly fishing passion due to its extensive aquatic life.

  • Y-Pool: With deep slow-moving waters, it’s a favorite spot for fly fishers to catch rainbow and brown trout.
  • Rt 9 Bridge: A replenishment area where the river is regularly stocked. It’s a great location to find brook and rainbow trout.
  • Church Pool: Characterized by slower moving water with deep swimming holes, it’s perfect for catching large brown trout.
  • Cider Mill: This spot is rich with brown trout, particularly in the fast-moving tailwater areas.
  • Fisherman’s Pool: A fly-fishing-only area. It’s an amazing spot for catching rainbow and brook trout.

Remember to follow all fishing regulations and respect local wildlife for a safe and enjoyable fishing experience.

Best Access Points

The Swift River, located in West Ware, is a popular spot for fly fishing due to its diverse species of fish and beautiful sceneries. Some of the best access points in this area are:

  • Cady Lane: It provides easy access and ample parking. It’s also ideal for wading, allowing anglers to cover a large fishing area.
  • Route 9 Bridge: Here, anglers can fish from the bridge or use the footpath that extends downstream.
  • The Hatchery Pipeline: Known for being a fly-fishing hotspot, it’s filled with large fish and is accessible by walking from the hatchery.
  • Quaboag River Confluence: This is the confluence of the Swift and Quaboag Rivers. It’s ideal for fishing larger species.

Remember, always respect fishing regulations and practice catch and release to preserve the species.

Local Fish

The Swift River in West Ware is known for its bountiful supply of fish, making it a favorite destination for fly fishermen. Here are the top 8 local fish targeted for fly fishing:

  1. Brook Trout: Native to Massachusetts, Brook Trout thrive in the cool, clear waters of the Swift River.
  2. Brown Trout: Known for its aggressive strikes, the Brown Trout presents a challenge for even the most experienced fly fishers.
  3. Rainbow Trout: Known for their beautiful colors and ability to jump high out of the water, Rainbow Trout are a favorite among fly fishers here.
  4. American Shad: These migratory fish offer a thrilling fight for fly fishers in spring.
  5. Atlantic Salmon:Despite being quite rare, the Atlantic Salmon is a coveted catch due to its size and fighting ability.
  6. Smallmouth Bass: These fish are aggressive and are known for their fighting prowess, providing an exciting experience for fly fishers.
  7. Common Carp: Although not traditionally fished by fly fishermen, the Swift River’s Common Carp provide a challenging target due to their size and power.
  8. Chain Pickerel: Known for their aggressive behavior, catching a Chain Pickerel provides a thrill for any fly fisher.

About The River

Who would have known that the Swift River, a scenic treasure of West Ware, carries a captivating history? The river’s journey started a long time ago, beautifully meandering through the woods and mountains of Massachusetts, offering a serene experience for explorers and adventure lovers.

Discovery of the Swift River led to flourishing trade and transportation routes during colonial times. Apart from trade, the river holds an abundant supply of fish, making it an angling hotspot!

  • Over the years, it served as a lifeline for Native American tribes.
  • The Swift River became a fundamental element of the Quabbin Reservoir, Boston’s primary water supply, in 20th century.

‘Experiencing the Swift River’ would be synonymous with a dive into nature’s grandeur and history, leaving visitors with unforgettable memories. So next time you’re in West Ware, make sure to have the Swift River on your bucket list!

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