Most major lakes, ponds, and rivers, including the Housatonic, are open to fishing year-round with catch limits; smaller rivers and brooks have catch limits of three after Sept. 11 and eight after April 1. Find a list of fishing seasons and limits here.
Berkshire County has scenic places to sail this fall as well as stand on the edge and cast out.
Pontoosuc Lake
Pittsfield
This lake is popular not only in the summer months but also in the winter months for ice fishing. This spot is best known for its yellow perch.
Farnam's Causeway
Cheshire
The causeway on Farnam's Road splits Cheshire Reservoir. There are multiple fishing piers on the north side and a boat launch on the south side, plus public restrooms.
If you forget any fishing necessities there is also a shack that carries live bait. This spot is popular for large mouth bass.
Laurel Lake
Lee
Laurel Lake is not only a great view but a great place to boat or fish. Bass are a popular catch. There's a public paved ramp and large parking lot located on the southern tip of the lake and there is no fee to launch.
Beartown State Forest and Campground
Great Barrington
Enjoy a picnic while also using the pier to fish out of Benedict Pond. If you need a break from fishing you can enjoy a lunch at one of the many park benches, a dip in the public beach, or a walk along the water on one of the trails.
Stockbridge Bowl
Stockbridge
This is another spot you can boat but also fish from the edge. The lake is also a popular scenic spot. Fishermen are known to catch trout, bass, and sunfish here.
Onota Lake
Pittsfield
Park your car at Burbank Park and head over to the boat launch to sail out into Onota Lake. No boat? No problem! You can also stand on the pier to cast.
Onota Lake is stocked with hundreds of rainbow trout every year, and with the right bait you're sure to get a catch.