Oxbow National Wildlife Refugeon Nashua River
River flow last 30 days
Current flow is 90
- 01Current flow is 90.1 cfs, within expected seasonal ranges for the Nashua River.
- 02Fall is a prime time for Carp and Pickerel to feed on abundant forage.
- 03Focus on slower, murky sections and shallow flats for Carp.
- 04Pickerel will be holding tight to structure like weed edges and submerged logs.
- 05Slower retrieves with nymphs and streamers are more effective in cooling water.
What to tie on at Oxbow National Wildlife Refuge
Picked from recent reports for this stretch.
Hellgrammite Fly
Hellgrammites are a consistent food source in rocky river environments, appealing to bottom feeders and opportunistic predators.
Pike Bunny
Pickerel are closely related to pike and often inhabit similar weedy environments. This baitfish and leech imitation is excellent for pickerel in spring, especially in the Nashua's slower, vegetated sections.
Gurgler (Bass)
With current warm temperatures (81°F) and clear skies, topwater action for bass and pickerel is likely picking up. This popper is an excellent attractor, especially in the late afternoons or low light.
Carp Fly (Backstabber)
While typically a summer pattern for tailing carp, late spring offers conditions where carp will be active on flats and river shallows. This crayfish/invertebrate imitation is a strong choice for the Nashua's carp population.
Buy at The Fly ShopWoolly Bugger (Black)
A versatile streamer, effective year-round for predatory fish like pickerel and bass, especially as they become more active in warming spring waters, imitating leeches and baitfish. The Nashua River's murky waters make dark profiles excellent.
San Juan Worm
Aquatic worms are a year-round food source for carp and other bottom feeders. This pattern is always a reliable searching nymph, especially in a river known for its murkier water.
Buy at AmazonDamsel Nymph (Olive)
Damsel nymphs become active in late spring as they migrate towards shore to hatch. This olive pattern is effective when stripped slowly along weed beds and can attract opportunistic feeders like pickerel and bass.
Scud (Pink/Orange)
Freshwater shrimp (scuds) are a consistent food source for carp, especially in areas with aquatic vegetation. A pink or orange Scud can be very effective for carp in early spring on the Nashua River.
Buy at AmazonWoolly Bugger (Olive)
A reliable year-round streamer, effective for imitating leeches and baitfish, a consistent food source for predatory species like bass and pickerel, especially in the Nashua River's murky, slower waters.
Massachusetts season by season
What changes on the water through the year, with the flies for each season.
Fly shops nearby
Local flies, current advice and guided trips.