What the Merrymeeting River offers
The Merrymeeting River is a small, meandering stream in southwestern New Hampshire that holds brook trout and occasional brown trout in its cooler sections. It flows through mixed forest and farmland in the towns of Brookline and Hollis before joining the Souhegan River, and it rewards anglers who fish it during spring and early summer when water levels are stable and temperatures stay low. The river is narrow — rarely more than 30 feet across — which makes it ideal for short-line casting and fly fishing with small dries and nymphs.
Access is limited but workable. A few pull-offs along Route 130 in Brookline allow you to reach the water, and there is informal access near the Hollis town line. The river is not stocked, so the trout you find are wild or holdovers from previous years. Water clarity is generally good except after heavy rain, and the streambed is a mix of gravel, small rocks, and silt that supports aquatic insects year-round.
Key Takeaways
- The Merrymeeting River holds wild brook trout and occasional brown trout in its cooler, shaded sections, with the best fishing from April through June.
- Access points are scattered along Route 130 in Brookline and near the Hollis border, with informal pull-offs rather than developed parking areas.
- A New Hampshire fishing license is required; the river is open year-round but is most productive when water temperatures stay below 65 degrees.
- Fly fishing with small nymphs and dry flies works best on this narrow stream, and wading is often easier than casting from the bank.
Seasons and water conditions
Spring (April through May) is the prime season on the Merrymeeting. Snowmelt keeps water temperatures cool, flows are moderate, and trout are actively feeding after winter. Early morning and late afternoon produce the most consistent action. By mid-June, water temperatures begin to climb, and trout move to the deepest, shadiest pools — usually near undercut banks or beneath overhanging trees.
Summer (July and August) is difficult. Water temperatures often exceed 65 degrees, and trout become sluggish and reluctant to feed during daylight. If you fish in summer, focus on dawn and dusk, and target the deepest pools. Fall (September through October) brings cooler water again, but flows can be low and clear, making trout spooky. Winter is generally not productive; water is cold, flows are low, and access can be difficult.
Heavy rain raises the water level and muddies the flow within hours. Wait at least two days after rain before fishing; the river clears slowly because of its small size. Drought conditions in late summer and fall can drop the water so low that wading becomes difficult and fish concentrate in isolated pools.
Access and parking
The most reliable access is along Route 130 in Brookline, where several informal pull-offs allow you to park and walk to the water. The largest is near the Brookline-Hollis town line, where a wider shoulder accommodates a few vehicles. From there, you can walk upstream or downstream along the bank or wade into the stream. There is no formal parking lot or boat launch; all access is roadside.
Private land borders much of the river, so stay in the streambed or on the immediate bank and respect posted property. The river is narrow enough that you can often fish both banks from the water itself. If you approach from the road, ask permission before crossing private land, or stick to the stream corridor.
What fish live here and how to catch them
Brook trout are the primary species. They range from 6 to 10 inches on average, with occasional fish reaching 12 inches. Brown trout appear less frequently but can be larger. Both species prefer the cooler, faster water near the head of pools and along current seams. Undercut banks, root wads, and fallen trees are prime holding spots.
Fly fishing is the most effective method. Use small nymphs (size 14 to 18) in olive, brown, and black, fished tight to the bottom in deeper pools. Dry flies work well during mayfly hatches in May and June; small Adams, Elk Hair Caddis, and Light Cahill patterns in sizes 14 to 16 produce strikes. Spin anglers can use small spinners (size 0 or 1) or inline spoons, but the narrow stream and overhanging brush make fly fishing easier and more productive.
Wading is often more effective than casting from the bank because the stream is so narrow. Wade slowly and deliberately to avoid spooking fish, and approach pools from downstream so your shadow does not fall across the water. Early morning and late afternoon are best; midday sun makes trout less active.
Regulations and licensing
You must have a valid New Hampshire fishing license to fish the Merrymeeting River. Licenses are sold online through the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department website, at sporting goods stores, and at town clerk offices. A one-day license is available if you do not want to commit to a full season.
The Merrymeeting River is open year-round with no special restrictions. The statewide trout limit is five fish per day, with no minimum size. Check the current New Hampshire fishing regulations before you go, as rules can change. The river is not stocked, so all trout are wild or holdovers.
Gear and tackle to bring
A 7 to 8-foot fly rod in 3 or 4-weight is ideal for this stream. Bring a selection of small nymphs and dry flies, as mentioned above. A 9-foot leader tapered to 4X or 5X works well. If you spin fish, pack size 0 and 1 spinners and small spoons in silver and gold.
Waders are useful but not essential; the water is shallow in most places, and you can often fish in regular clothes and boots. Polarized sunglasses help you spot trout in the clear water. Bring a small net if you plan to keep fish, and a headlamp if you fish early morning or late evening. The streamside brush is thick in places, so wear long sleeves and pants to avoid scratches.
Nearby water and alternatives
If the Merrymeeting is too low or too warm, the Souhegan River (which the Merrymeeting joins) offers more water and slightly better flows. The Souhegan is larger and more forgiving, though it also warms in summer. Beaver Brook in Hollis is another small stream in the area with wild trout, though access is more limited.
The Piscataquog River, about 20 minutes north, is a larger tributary of the Merrimack and holds both brook and brown trout. It offers more consistent flows and is stocked in some sections, making it a good backup if the Merrymeeting is not fishing well. The Soucook River, also nearby, is another option for small-stream trout fishing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep trout from the Merrymeeting River?
Yes. The statewide limit is five trout per day with no minimum size. Because the river is not stocked and holds only wild trout, consider catch-and-release to preserve the population, especially during spring and early summer when trout are spawning or recovering from winter.
Is the Merrymeeting River good for beginners?
Yes, if you are comfortable wading and casting in tight spaces. The narrow stream and short distances make it forgiving for fly casting, and the trout are not heavily pressured. Water clarity is good, so you can see fish before you cast. Spring is the best time to learn here.
What time of day is best to fish?
Early morning (sunrise to 9 a.m.) and late afternoon (4 p.m. to sunset) are most productive. Midday sun makes trout less active, especially in summer. If you fish in spring when water is cold, you can have success throughout the day.
Do I need a boat or canoe?
No. The Merrymeeting is too narrow and shallow for boats. Wading is the standard method. You can walk along the bank in places, but wading gives you better access to holding water and lets you approach pools from downstream.
What should I do if the river is too warm or too low?
Fish early morning or late evening when water is coolest. If the river is too low, move to the Souhegan River or Piscataquog River, both of which hold more water and stay cooler longer. Check water conditions before you drive out; the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department website lists stream flow data for major rivers.