Best fishing spots on the Exeter River

If you've ever felt overwhelmed by the crowds on New Hampshire's popular lakes or wished for a more intimate angling experience, you're not alone. Many anglers overlook the smaller, yet incredibly rewarding, rivers that crisscross our beautiful state. One such gem is the Exeter River, a waterway that offers a surprising diversity of fishing opportunities, from coldwater trout and feisty smallmouth bass in its upper reaches to hard-fighting striped bass in its tidal estuary. This guide is designed to unlock the secrets of the Exeter River, helping you discover its best fishing spots and the strategies you'll need to make your next outing a memorable one.

The Allure of the Exeter River: A Quiet Gem for Anglers

The Exeter River, flowing roughly 26 miles from its headwaters in Chester, through towns like Fremont, Sandown, Kingston, East Kingston, Kensington, and ultimately emptying into Great Bay, truly embodies the spirit of New Hampshire's diverse waterways. While it might not have the big-name recognition of the Merrimack or Connecticut Rivers, its more modest size often translates into a more peaceful, personal fishing adventure. It's a place where you can often find solitude and connect with nature, all while pursuing a variety of fish species.

Understanding the River's Character and Flow

The Exeter River transforms dramatically along its course, which is key to understanding where and how to fish it. In its upper stretches, the river is narrower, shallower, and characterized by a mix of riffles, runs, and small pools. Here, the water is generally colder and clearer, making it prime habitat for trout and smallmouth bass. As you move downstream, particularly through the town of Exeter itself, you encounter the Exeter Falls dam. This dam acts as a significant natural break, creating distinct fishing environments above and below it.

Below the dam, the river widens considerably and becomes tidally influenced, with saltwater intrusion from Great Bay pushing upstream. The tidal flow brings in a whole new set of species and challenges. The bottom structure also changes, moving from rocky and gravelly upstream to muddier, softer bottoms in the estuarine sections, often with extensive marsh grasses along the banks. Depths can vary significantly with the tides, from just a few feet to over ten feet in the main channel. Understanding these shifts is crucial for planning your attack. For instance, the fast-moving water just below the dam can be fantastic for targeting aggressive fish, while the deeper, slower sections further downstream require a different approach.

Key Fish Species to Expect

The Exeter River boasts an impressive array of fish species for its size, offering something for every type of angler.

• Trout: In the colder, upstream sections, especially those annually stocked by the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, you'll find rainbow trout and brown trout. These fish are usually targeted in the spring and fall when water temperatures are cooler. While often stocked as pan-sized, some can grow into nice holdovers. You can find detailed information on what to expect with the New Hampshire Trout Stocking Report and Map.
• Smallmouth Bass: These hard-fighting fish are prevalent throughout much of the non-tidal river, thriving in rocky areas, current breaks, and around submerged structures. They're especially active from late spring through early fall, providing exciting action.
• Largemouth Bass: While less common than smallmouths in the main river current, largemouth bass can be found in slower, weedier backwaters, oxbows, and ponds connected to the river, particularly in the mid-to-lower sections.
• Panfish: Yellow perch, white perch, sunfish, and black crappie are abundant in many sections of the river, offering consistent action, especially for families or new anglers. White perch, in particular, can be found in large schools in the tidal sections.
• Chain Pickerel: These aggressive predators lurk in the weed-choked margins and slower pools, always ready to ambush a passing lure or bait. They offer a thrilling fight and can be surprisingly large.
• Striped Bass: This is where the lower, tidal sections of the Exeter River really shine. From late spring through fall, migratory striped bass push far upstream from Great Bay, chasing baitfish. They offer some of the most exciting fishing in the entire river, especially on incoming and outgoing tides. Learning the Great Bay Striped Bass Fishing Rules is essential if you plan to target them.

Navigating the Exeter River's Prime Fishing Locations

To truly experience the Exeter River's bounty, it's best to break it down into distinct fishing zones, each with its own characteristics and best approaches.

Upper River: Beyond the Tidal Influence

As you head upstream from the town of Exeter, above the dam, the river takes on a more classic small-river character. This section, winding through rural landscapes and quieter towns, is primarily a freshwater fishery.

• Fremont & Sandown Stretches: These areas offer excellent opportunities for stream-dwelling trout and smallmouth bass. Look for access points near road crossings, such as where Route 107 or Route 121 intersect the river. Here, the river features more defined riffles, runs, and pools. The smallmouth bass will often be found holding behind boulders or in deeper pockets created by current, while trout might be in the faster oxygenated water or lurking under overhanging banks. Fly fishing can be particularly effective in these areas, especially with smaller nymph and dry fly patterns that mimic the local insect life. Spin anglers will find success with small inline spinners or weighted jigs. Public access can be limited to bridge crossings, so always be mindful of private property.
• East Kingston & Kensington Areas: Moving slightly downstream but still above the dam, these sections tend to widen a bit more, offering larger pools and slower runs interspersed with riffles. These areas are often targeted for trout stockings in the spring. You might find a good mix of smallmouth bass and panfish here as well. The slower sections can also hold some chain pickerel if there's enough weed growth. Access can be found near various road bridges; however, much of the river is flanked by private land, so finding legal access points might require a bit of scouting or consulting local maps. Always respect "No Trespassing" signs.

Downtown Exeter and the Tidal Stretch

The heart of the Exeter River's fishing scene undoubtedly lies within and immediately around the town of Exeter. The presence of the dam, combined with the tidal influence below it, creates unique and easily accessible fishing opportunities.

• Exeter Falls Dam Area: This is a crucial hotspot. Above the dam, you'll find a quieter, impounded section that holds a mix of largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and various panfish. It's an excellent spot for kayak or canoe fishing, offering calmer waters. Below the dam, the water becomes highly oxygenated and often turbulent, especially on an outgoing tide. This area is a magnet for striped bass that push upriver from Great Bay, waiting to ambush baitfish flushed over the falls. It's also a fantastic spot for holdover trout and white perch. The town provides excellent public access along the banks, making it easy to fish from shore. This is a perfect place to observe the impact of the tides on fish behavior. Many local guides listed on platforms like FishingBooker specialize in this area, offering insights into the best tidal windows for striped bass.
• Swasey Parkway and Town Docks: Just downstream from the dam, the river flows alongside Swasey Parkway, offering ample shore access and convenient parking. This stretch is a prime location for striped bass, especially during the spring and fall runs. Anglers often target stripers with soft plastics, bucktail jigs, or chunk bait on the bottom. White perch are also abundant here, providing consistent light-tackle action. Further downstream, closer to the town's public docks, the river deepens and widens, becoming more navigable for small boats, kayaks, and canoes, which can be launched from the town ramp. This area is heavily influenced by the tide, and understanding the ebbs and flows is paramount to success here.

Lower River: Towards Great Bay

As the Exeter River continues its journey eastward, it expands into a wider, more estuarine environment, eventually merging with Great Bay. This section is primarily a saltwater-influenced fishery, dominated by migratory species.

• Stratham and Newfields Areas: Here, the river takes on the characteristics of a coastal estuary. The banks are often marshy, and the main channel is deeper, with vast mud flats exposed at low tide. This is prime striped bass territory, particularly for boat anglers or those with kayaks who can access the vast marsh networks. Look for current breaks, deeper channels, and areas where smaller creeks feed into the main river, as these are natural ambush points for stripers. You'll also find abundant white perch, which can provide fast-paced action on light tackle. Crabbing is also popular in these areas. While specific shore access can be tricky due to private property and marshland, spots like the Great Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve in Stratham may offer limited public access points or overlooks.
• Confluence with Great Bay: The final stretch of the Exeter River as it empties into Great Bay is a dynamic zone. Here, the river's freshwater discharge mixes thoroughly with the bay's saltwater, creating a rich ecosystem. This is where you might encounter larger striped bass, and occasionally other saltwater species like bluefish during the warmer months, especially from June to September. Access is primarily by boat from launches in the lower river or directly from Great Bay itself. This area is less about specific "spots" and more about understanding the vast tidal flats, channels, and baitfish movements within the broader Great Bay ecosystem.

Species	Best Locations	Prime Seasons	Notes
Trout	Upper River (Fremont, East Kingston)	Spring, Fall	Stocked waters, cold pockets, small spinners, worms, flies
Smallmouth Bass	Upper & Mid River (rocky areas, current breaks)	Late Spring, Summer, Early Fall	Crankbaits, soft plastics, topwater, jigs
Largemouth Bass	Slower pools, backwaters (Mid-River)	Summer	Weedless lures, soft plastics, frogs
Panfish	All sections, especially slower waters	Spring, Summer, Fall	Worms, small jigs, tiny spinners, great for kids
Chain Pickerel	Weedy margins, slow pools (Mid-River)	Spring, Summer, Fall	Spoons, spinnerbaits, shiners
Striped Bass	Lower River (Exeter Dam to Great Bay)	Late Spring, Summer, Fall (tidal dependent)	Soft plastics, bucktail jigs, chunk bait, flies, crucial to know the tides

Essential Techniques and Seasonal Strategies for Exeter River Success

Successful fishing on the Exeter River means adapting your approach to the diverse conditions and the species you're targeting. A "one-size-fits-all" mentality simply won't cut it here.

Matching Your Tackle to the Target Species

Having the right gear makes all the difference. You don't need a huge arsenal, but a versatile setup is helpful.

• For Trout: If you're chasing those stocked rainbows or wild browns in the upper river, a light spinning rod (6-7 feet, ultralight or light action) spooled with 4-6 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon is perfect. Small inline spinners like Mepps or Panther Martins in sizes 0-2 are deadly. Garden worms, corn, or PowerBait fished under a bobber or on a light bottom rig also work wonders. For fly anglers, a 3-5 weight fly rod with a floating line is ideal, using small nymph patterns (Pheasant Tail, Hare's Ear), dry flies (Elk Hair Caddis, Adams) during hatches, or small streamers.
• For Bass (Smallmouth and Largemouth): A medium-light to medium action spinning rod (6'6" – 7'2") with 6-10 lb fluorocarbon or braided line with a fluorocarbon leader is a good all-around choice. For smallmouth in the current, small crankbaits (Rapala, Rebel), soft plastic tubes, grubs, or Ned rigs worked along the bottom are effective. In slower, weedier areas for largemouth, opt for weedless jigs, Texas-rigged soft plastics (worms, creature baits), or topwater frogs and poppers during low light.
• For Striped Bass: You'll want a slightly heavier setup, a medium-heavy spinning rod (7-8 feet) with a reel spooled with 20-30 lb braided line and a 20-30 lb fluorocarbon leader. Popular lures include soft plastic paddle tail swimbaits (like those from Savage Gear or Z-Man) on jig heads (1/2 oz to 1 oz depending on current), bucktail jigs, or even topwater poppers in calmer conditions. If bait fishing, fresh cut mackerel or clams on a fish-finder rig can be very effective, especially below the dam or in the deeper tidal channels. Many anglers find the best way to get on stripers is by booking a guided trip, and you can often find local options easily through sites like FishingBooker.

Seasonal Breakdown: When to Fish for What

The Exeter River really shines at different times of the year for different species.

• Spring (April – May): This is prime trout season. The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department typically begins its stocking efforts as waters warm slightly, providing excellent opportunities for newly stocked fish. Bass also start to become active as water temperatures rise, especially smallmouths moving into shallower areas to feed. For the lower river, the first wave of migratory striped bass begins to arrive, offering exciting early-season action. Remember to check New Hampshire Fishing Season Dates and Closures for specific regulations.
• Summer (June – August): The river's bass fishery hits its stride. Smallmouths will be aggressive, especially in the mornings and evenings, while largemouths in the calmer sections will be responsive to topwater and weedless presentations. Panfish are abundant and provide consistent family-friendly fun. Striped bass are fully present in the tidal sections, offering fantastic opportunities for both boat and shore anglers. Hot summer days might push fish into deeper, cooler water or make them more active at dawn, dusk, or even at night.
• Fall (September – November): This is arguably one of the best times to fish the Exeter. Trout stocking resumes, and the cooler temperatures make them more active. Smallmouth and largemouth bass go on a feeding frenzy, bulking up for winter, making them very aggressive. Crucially, the fall run of striped bass can be spectacular as they stage to migrate out of Great Bay, offering chances at larger fish before they leave.
• Winter (December – March): Fishing activity slows considerably. Ice fishing might be possible in very calm, impounded sections upstream if safe ice forms, targeting panfish or pickerel. The tidal sections remain open but become very cold, and while some holdover striped bass might remain, fishing pressure is minimal, and success rates are low.

Navigating Access and Etiquette on the River

Access to the Exeter River varies greatly. In the urban areas of Exeter, public access is generally good, with parks and walking paths alongside the river. However, in more rural stretches, much of the river is bordered by private land.

• Public Access Points: Look for state-owned lands, town parks, or designated boat launches. The town of Exeter offers excellent public access, particularly along Swasey Parkway. Always look for signage indicating public access or restrictions.
• Private Property: It's absolutely crucial to respect private property. Fishing from bridges is often legal, but accessing the river banks from private land without permission is trespassing. When in doubt, err on the side of caution.
• Boat Launches: There are several informal and formal access points for canoes, kayaks, and small boats. The town of Exeter has a public boat ramp. For larger boats heading into Great Bay, there are ramps in nearby communities. Remember, if you're boating, you also need to be aware of New Hampshire Boating Laws for Anglers.
• Leave No Trace: Always pack out everything you pack in. Dispose of fishing line, bait containers, and other trash properly. This not only keeps the river clean but also ensures positive relationships with landowners and other river users.
• Be Mindful of Others: The Exeter River is enjoyed by kayakers, paddleboarders, and wildlife watchers. Give them space, especially in narrower sections.

Local Insights and Pro Tips for Exeter River Anglers

Beyond the basic techniques, a few local insights can significantly elevate your Exeter River fishing experience.

Understanding Tidal Patterns and Their Impact

For the lower, tidal sections of the Exeter River, tides are everything. This cannot be overstated.

• Incoming Tide: As the tide pushes in from Great Bay, it brings cooler, saltier water and often baitfish upstream. Striped bass will move with this tide, actively feeding as new water covers structure and pushes bait into accessible areas. The first few hours of an incoming tide can be particularly productive.
• Outgoing Tide: As the tide recedes, it flushes baitfish out of marsh creeks and off the flats, creating a "dinner bell" for predatory fish. The period just before and during the peak outflow, especially around pinch points or structure below the dam, can be incredibly hot for stripers.
• Slack Tide: The short periods of high or low slack tide, when the water is relatively still, are generally less productive for actively feeding striped bass, though other species like white perch might still be caught.
• Planning Your Trip: Always consult a tide chart for Great Bay or Portsmouth, NH, before heading to the lower Exeter. Aim to fish around the moving tides, particularly the two hours leading up to high tide and the first two hours of the outgoing tide. For those looking to maximize their chances, hiring a local guide through platforms like FishingBooker who lives and breathes these tides can be invaluable.

Finding Hidden Gems and Less-Fished Pockets

While the well-known spots like Swasey Parkway are popular for a reason, the Exeter River has many quieter corners waiting to be discovered.

• Scout from Bridges: Drive along the river, stopping at various bridge crossings. Many bridges offer glimpses of promising water and potential access points. Take note of deep pools, current breaks, or areas with submerged timber. Remember, just because you can see it doesn't mean you can access it from the bank without permission, but it can inform where to float a kayak.
• Kayak or Canoe Exploration: Small watercraft are ideal for exploring the Exeter River. They allow you to cover more water than bank fishing and access areas that are unreachable by larger boats or foot. You can paddle upstream into quiet stretches or navigate the marsh channels in the lower river, finding pristine spots away from the crowds. Just ensure you're aware of Are Kayaks Required to Be Registered in New Hampshire? if you're considering a motorized kayak.
• Online Mapping Tools: Satellite imagery from Google Maps or similar services can be excellent for pre-trip scouting. Look for changes in river width, deep bends, confluence points with smaller tributaries, or areas with obvious submerged structure. Cross-reference these with known public access points.
• Talk to Locals: Sometimes the best information comes from those who fish the river regularly. Visit local tackle shops in Exeter, Kingston, or Stratham. They often have real-time reports and can offer advice on current conditions and productive spots.

Conservation and Responsible Angling

The Exeter River is a valuable natural resource, and it's up to all of us to protect it for future generations.

• Catch and Release: While keeping legal fish for the table is part of the angling experience, practicing catch and release, especially for larger breeding fish or species you don't intend to eat, helps sustain fish populations. Learn proper handling techniques to minimize stress on the fish.
• Know the Regulations: Always carry a copy of the current Reading the New Hampshire Freshwater Fishing Digest or consult the NH Fish and Game website. Regulations for species, bag limits, and seasons can change. For example, striped bass have specific slot limits you must adhere to. Even if you're just visiting, ensure you understand the New Hampshire Fishing License Guide for 2026 and obtain the necessary permits. Don't forget to check Do Kids Need a Fishing License in New Hampshire?, as age requirements apply.
• Protect the Habitat: Avoid disturbing spawning beds, especially in spring. Don't leave trash, fishing line, or discarded bait on the banks. Consider using lead-free tackle to protect wildlife.

The Exeter River, with its diverse habitats and varied fish populations, truly is a gem for New Hampshire anglers. Whether you're casting flies for trout in a peaceful upstream ripple, targeting smallmouth bass around current breaks, or battling striped bass in its lively tidal waters, this river offers a unique and rewarding experience. So grab your gear, check the tides, and go explore this often-overlooked waterway – you might just discover your new favorite fishing spot.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this guide is for general informational purposes only. Fishing conditions, regulations, and access points can change. Always consult the most current New Hampshire Fish and Game Department regulations before fishing. It is the angler's responsibility to know and follow all applicable laws.