New Hampshire Rivers Management and  Protection Program River Nomination Form

VII.  RESOURCE ASSESSMENT

4.  Recreational Resources

(a) Fishery

Identify the type and location of any high quality recreational fisheries or areas with such potential which are present in the river (as determined by the NH Department of Fish and Game). Also indicate areas that have potential to be significant fisheries.

The Isinglass River is cited in the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department Freshwater Fishing Guide  as a stream providing recreational fishing for Brook and Rainbow Trout. Both of these species are stocked as yearlings prior to and during the fishing season. In the past, Brown Trout were also stocked, but not with the regularity of the others. The DeLorme New Hampshire Atlas and Gazetteer  represents the Isinglass as a river for fishing Brook, Brown, and Rainbow Trout. Though neither are listed in the guide books, two of the Isinglass tributaries, Mohawk River and Nippo Brook, both receive stocked Brook and Rainbow Trout and provide good fishing.

 In addition to trout, the angler may pursue other species. In the mid 1990s, a limited number of surplus hatchery-raised Atlantic Salmon adults were released in the Isinglass, and provided a lively fishery. It is unlikely this type of “put and take” fishery would be repeated in the future. However, if surplus salmon should become available, the Isinglass would be one of several streams that will be considered for adult salmon stocking.

 The Isinglass is considered a very important trout stream and is popular with the anglers. The stocking and easy access along Routes 126 and 202 attract many anglers. Much of the fishing is done in the spring, following early-season stocking by the NH Department of Fish & Game. Other roadside fishing spots include the Route 202A area and Green Hill, Flagg, and Rochester Neck Roads.

 In addition to coldwater fisheries, warmwater species also provide angling opportunities. Within the slower moving, wider reaches of the Isinglass and tributaries (Mohawk and Berrys Rivers), fish species including Brown Bullhead, Pickerel, and certain centrachids (Bass, Sunfish) may be found.

Beyond the easily-accessed roadside reaches of the River, there are numerous opportunities for the more adventuresome angler to bushwhack into less well-known sections of the River. Points for off-trail access include Pig Lane, the high tension (345kv) power line, Parshley Lane in Strafford, and off Scruton Pond Road in Barrington. Care must be taken to avoid trespassing on private property.

For those who prefer fishing from a canoe rather than streamside, there are several opportunities. The boating section [below] details access points.

(b) Boating

Describe any significant recreational boating opportunities which are present on the river, including whether it is used for motorized boating. Indicate if the river is cited as significant for recreational boating in a publication of a national, regional or statewide recreation organization. Refer to the NH River Protection and Energy Development Project to determine the river’s significance as a recreational boating river. Also note if boaters are attracted from beyond the local area and if there are areas with potential to be significant boating resources.

The River is generally navigable from where it passes under Route 126 in Barrington to its confluence with the Cocheco River in Rochester. The first two miles can be paddled only in very high water. Waters above the Route 126 bridge can be canoed once the swift water is bypassed. Access may be gained from the New Bow Lake Road. This area is a large marshland where the Mohawk River and Nippo Brook join the Isinglass.

During high water levels, there are some fairly challenging places on the River through which to navigate such as the sluiceway just above the Route 202 bridge and through the remains of the Winkley Mills, above the Green Hill Road bridge where there is a Class II+ section of rapids. The sluiceway can only be passed in high water and should be scouted before paddling. One half-mile below the Route 125 bridge, there is a 25-foot waterfall that must be portaged.

Despite these challenging sections, the Isinglass River is generally not known for white water. A paddle in it is generally more relaxing and allows visitors to enjoy its wooded, rural banks and view the wildlife that lives within the corridor.

Two of the Isinglass tributaries also provide canoeing opportunities. The Berrys River can be traveled from the French Mill site upstream through a quiet reach of water with about one-half mile of marshy and wooded banks. This relatively short paddle can be very rewarding as the area is relatively untouched by humans with wildlife sightings likely. With a short portage, paddlers may access the lower, unsettled part of Long Pond where there are additional wildlife viewing and fishing opportunities.

The Mohawk River has two canoeable sections. The stillwater above Route 202A offers over one half-mile of excellent marshy habitat where Beaver, Muskrat, waterfowl, and various passerine birds can be observed. Adequate parking is available by the bridge. A canoe may be floated through the marsh that is located upstream of the Route 126 bridge. During periods of high water, an experienced canoeist can run the Mohawk from this point down through the winding stream through woodlands to the River’s terminus where it joins the Isinglass in a large marsh. From this excellent natural area, visitors may next go downstream to the Route 126 bridge that is just about a half-mile from the put-in on the Mohawk River.

(c) Other Recreational Opportunities

List any other recreational areas, facilities, or opportunities or potential for such on the river or in the river corridor (e.g., hiking, camping, picnicking, etc.). Indicate ownership, if known.

Prime wildlife viewing abounds along the Isinglass River and its tributaries. There are many bird species such as Owls, Great Blue Herons, and Cedar Waxwings. The River is also home to Beaver, Mink, and Otter. About two and three-quarter miles below the Route 202 bridge—just past an iron footbridge—there is a small beaver dam that is passable by boat. Just above this point, the River is wide and deep and takes a sharp right hand turn. This is a good location to sight Beaver and one of the better fishing spots on the River. Other points of interest along the River are two granite bridge abutments that predate the Revolutionary War that can be found within a two-miles section below the 202 bridge. In the Mohawk River marsh area, Beaver, Muskrat, Red-Winged Blackbird, Blandings Turtles, and many other birds and animals may be viewed.

There are many places to enjoy along the River’s banks, from steep clay embankments that are fun to slide down to open grassy areas and high ledges that offer fine views. The many historic sites and ruins provide interesting walks along the River. The riverbanks, marshes, and historic sites are also ideal areas for picnics and quiet contemplation.