New Hampshirefreestone
Pemigewasset Fishing Forecast
The Pemigewasset anchors New Hampshire trout culture for anglers who want a forecast that respects real hydrology—not a generic “fish today” badge. Species mix centers on rainbow trout, brook trout, and brown trout, with tactics shifting from weighted nymphs in cold water to dries and terrestrials as afternoons warm during April through October. Because it is not a manicured park stretch, the Pemigewasset rewards map work, respectful access, and leaders sized for the clarity you will actually see. USGS gauge 01087000 tracks live flow and temperature for planning wade or float days.
Spring-fed Pemigewasset is flowing at 49 CFS CFS with surface temps near 41°F°F — 5/10 today. Top pick: a WD-40.
Opens Jan 1
Rivers/streams open Jan 1 - Oct 15. Check for fly-fishing-only sections
Forecast and on-page guide updated October 24, 2026 (UTC). Open the app for hourly conditions.
Today's verdict
Pemigewasset
Fair
Updated 8:57 PM
41°F
49 CFS
5 PM - 7 PM
WD-40
Free to start • No signup required • Hourly updates
October Hatches
BWO
Mayfly
Spring and fall on overcast days
October Fishing Tactics
Primary Targets
Recommended Tactics
Brown trout pre-spawn activity. Streamer fishing peaks.
Year-Round Fishing Guide
| Month | Water Temp | Tactics |
|---|---|---|
| January | 32-38°F | Nymphing, Midges, Limited |
| February | 32-40°F | Nymphing, Midges, Limited |
| March | 38-48°F | Dry Flies, Hendricksons, Quill Gordons |
| April | 46-54°F | Dry Flies, Hendricksons, Quill Gordons |
| May | 52-62°F | Dry Flies, Hendricksons, Quill Gordons |
| June | 58-68°F | Tricos, Terrestrials, BWOs |
| July | 64-72°F | Tricos, Terrestrials, BWOs |
| August | 66-74°F | Tricos, Terrestrials, BWOs |
| September | 58-66°F | BWOs, Streamers, October Caddis |
| October(Now) | 50-58°F | BWOs, Streamers, October Caddis |
| November | 42-50°F | BWOs, Streamers, October Caddis |
| December | 34-42°F | Nymphing, Midges, Limited |
Quick Facts
Rainbow Trout, Brook Trout, and Brown Trout
freestone
50°F - 58°F
What Makes the Pemigewasset Unique?
Signature hatch or window
BWO (Mayfly) is a headline hatch to watch in October. Peak activity often tracks 42–55°F water temps.
Distinctive access
Lincoln: Upper river access in the White Mountains.
Rules anglers miss
Some sections have special regulations.
When is the Best Time to Fish Pemigewasset?
Spring
Excellent fishing after snowmelt. Stoneflies and caddis emerge.
Summer
Fish upper sections for cooler water. Early morning is best.
Fall
Prime conditions with fall foliage. Aggressive fish.
Winter
Limited - some open water in mild winters.
Recommended Equipment for Pemigewasset
Rod
8 to 9-foot, 4 or 5-weight is versatile.
Line
Floating line for most fishing.
Leader & Tippet
9-foot tapered leader, 4X-5X tippet.
Waders
Breathable waders. Wet wading possible in summer.
Essential Flies
How to Fish Pemigewasset: Tips & Tactics
The Pemigewasset River flows through New Hampshire's White Mountains, offering excellent fishing for wild brook and rainbow trout. The upper sections provide classic mountain stream fishing.
Best Times of Day
Morning and evening are most productive. Spring and fall offer the best conditions. Summer can bring warm temperatures in lower sections.
Recommended Techniques
Classic freestone techniques work well. Target pocket water, runs, and pools. Dry-dropper rigs are effective. Wade carefully in the mountain stream environment.
Water Conditions
Spring snowmelt creates runoff. Summer offers stable conditions in upper reaches. Water clarity is excellent. The river parallels I-93 providing easy access.
Fly Selection
Attractor patterns work well for wild fish. Caddis and stonefly patterns are essential. Streamers for larger fish in deeper pools.
Access Points & Parking for Pemigewasset
Lincoln
Upper river access in the White Mountains.
Woodstock
Quality water with good access.
Thornton
Mid-river access.
Plymouth
Lower river access.
Spawning Seasons
Please respect spawning fish and their redds. Avoid fishing over actively spawning trout.
Brown Trout
Spawn months: October, November
Night spawning common. Males become very dark with pronounced kype during spawn.
Rainbow Trout
Spawn months: March, April
Resident rainbow trout spawn in smaller tributaries and tend to build smaller redds than steelhead.
Brook Trout
Spawn months: September, October
Males develop vibrant red bellies and white-edged fins during spawning. Early fall spawners.
Optimal Fishing Conditions
Optimal Flow
200 - 600 CFS
Best fishing conditions
Optimal Water Temperature
50° - 65°F
Ideal for active trout
Pemigewasset Fishing Regulations
Season
Check New Hampshire Fish and Game for dates.
Limits
Varies by section. Check current regulations.
Special Regulations
Some sections have special regulations.
Bait Restrictions
Check regulations by section.
Notes
Upper sections offer the best trout fishing.
Always verify current regulations with New Hampshire fish and wildlife agency before fishing. Regulations can change annually.
Fly Shops & Guides Near Pemigewasset
Local Fly Shops
- Pemi Valley Fly Shop - Lincoln
- North Country Angler - North Conway
- White Mountain Fly Shop
Guide Services
- White Mountain Fly Fishing
- Pemi Valley Anglers
- New Hampshire Guides
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Pemigewasset — frequently asked questions
When is the best time to fish the Pemigewasset?
Brown trout pre-spawn activity. Streamer fishing peaks.
What flies should I bring to the Pemigewasset?
For the Pemigewasset (freestone), carry: Stimulator, Elk Hair Caddis, Royal Wulff, Pheasant Tail, Woolly Bugger.
What water temperature is best for trout on the Pemigewasset?
On the Pemigewasset, trout hold between 50° and 65°F. In summer, expect temps to swing with air temperature — fish early.
Do I need a fishing license for the Pemigewasset?
Yes — you need a valid New Hampshire fishing license to fish the Pemigewasset. Local season: Check New Hampshire Fish and Game for dates.. Daily limit: Varies by section. Check current regulations..
What hatches should I watch for on the Pemigewasset in October?
BWO is the signature hatch on the Pemigewasset in October. Match size and adjust leader size to 5X-6X. The fish key in on the emergence during low-light hours, so plan to be on the water at first light.
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5/10 today · Fair