The Nemasket River

is a small river in the town of Bridgewater in southeastern Massachusetts. It flows north from Assawompset Pond in Lakeville through Middleborough into Bridgewater where it empties into the Taunton river.

 I love this river. What attracts me to this river is that is very clean and has grassy knolls along its sides instead of muddy banks.  It is a river to enjoy, with a calm flow it makes a very relaxing paddle through the country side occasionally passing by a few neighboring homes now and then.

Oliver Mill Park

                                                                                                          Aerial view of Oliver Mill Park

 Shown above this spot just doesn't get any better for portage conditions with easy access off of Rte.44 and plenty of free parking.   There are picnic tables and outdoor BBQ pits for use.  Short or long trips can be planned from here to various destination points along the Nemasket and Taunton rivers. In the spring you have the migration of herring from Narragansett Bay up the Taunton and Nemasket river to Lake Assawompsett pond.  Check out the fish ladder while your there.

 A close up view of the Portage area at Oliver Mill

  The height of the river during spring is when the river is at it's peak this time of year which make it more fun and interesting to paddle.  You will have more areas to pull out and take a break since the river will overflow certain banks.  Also you will find that you no longer are able to fit under certain bridges anymore :(