Fishing Area 1 — Gate 8

Gate 8 is Quabbin Reservoir's Boat Launch Area #1, the William E. Pula Fishing Area, in Pelham off Route 202, 4½ miles north of the intersection with Route 9. DCR calls it prime for cold-water fish such as lake trout and landlocked salmon, because it opens onto the reservoir's deep west arm. It is open for boats during the Quabbin Fishing Season, mid-April to mid-October; parking is $6 a car.

If you are after Quabbin's lake trout or salmon in summer, this is the launch DCR points you to.

Getting to Gate 8

From Route 9 in Belchertown, head north on Route 202 for about four and a half miles; DCR places the launch area off Route 202 in Pelham, at coordinates 42.3504, -72.4004. Route 202 continues north to New Salem, where Gate 31 (Area 2) is, just off Route 122. Quabbin Park and the visitor center are back south on Route 9, a short drive away.

Why Anglers Choose Gate 8

DCR's fishing guide says most of Quabbin's deep, cold-water species are in the west arm of the reservoir, reached from Gate 8. Lake trout and landlocked salmon reproduce naturally in Quabbin, one of only two Massachusetts waters where that happens. In spring they roam the shallow edges after smelt, and shore anglers can reach them; once the water warms they move deep, and a boat is the only way to find them.

Lake trout must be at least 18 inches to keep (2 a day) and salmon at least 15 inches (2 a day). The state-record lake trout, 25 pounds 7 ounces, was caught in 2016. Full limits are on the fishing guide.

Boats, Rentals and Rules

• DCR rental boats are available first come, first served; see boat rentals for prices, age and license rules.
• Private motorboats need an intact Quabbin Boat Seal, at least 12 feet long, max four people, and DCR's horsepower limits.
• No canoes, kayaks, inflatables, pontoons or sailboats on the reservoir.
• Boats must be off the water 90 minutes before the posted closing time; no launches within two hours of it.
• Card only at the launch area: Visa, Mastercard, Discover or debit. No cash, no American Express.

Shore Fishing Near Gate 8

Gate 8 is the southern end of the west-side shoreline where DCR allows daylight shore fishing in season: Gates 8 through 16A, ending at the West Branch of the Swift River. Parking fees apply if you shore-fish from the launch area lot. At other gates, park beside the gate, not in front of it, or DCR will tow. The gates page explains how the gate system works.

Biking From Gate 8

DCR allows bicycles on the designated road through Gate 8, but only during the fishing season. Off-season, and anywhere off the designated roads, bikes are not allowed.

Before You Go

Call the visitor center at (413) 323-7221 on days with high wind in the forecast; DCR suspends rentals in rough weather. Bring a life jacket for everyone in the boat. Dogs are not allowed on DCR's Quabbin lands, including the launch areas.