Concord, New Hampshire, offers exceptional freshwater fishing experiences centered around the Merrimack River and its network of productive ponds. Anglers target trophy-sized smallmouth bass along the river's boulder-rich stretches, where aggressive strikes and challenging fights define the experience. The Merrimack's diverse ecosystem also supports largemouth bass, striped bass during seasonal migrations, chain pickerel, and panfish like yellow perch and sunfish.

Beyond the river, local ponds like Shellcamp, Dubes, Bow Town, and Turtle Pond provide accessible shoreline and boat fishing for bass and pickerel. The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department supplements natural populations with periodic stockings of Atlantic salmon in the watershed. Fishing techniques vary from fly fishing in the river's upper reaches to spin casting in Lowell's urban stretches and bait fishing for carp and catfish.

Prime fishing runs from April through November, with winter opportunities for dedicated anglers. Franklin's trout-stream-like sections and Lowell's canals offer distinct environments, while Concord's urban access points like Arms Park and Greely Park deliver convenience without sacrificing quality. The region's mix of river dynamics, pond ecosystems, and seasonal migrations creates a versatile angling destination suited to all skill levels.