“At Herring Creek Outfitters, our mission is to provide a unique and unparalleled fly fishing adventure amidst the scenic beauty of the North Shore of coastal Massachusetts. With our expert guides outfitted with technical poling skiffs, we navigate the the intricate estuaries and flats of Plum Island and Essex, delivering unforgettable experiences that connect our clients with the natural wonders of the region and foster a deep appreciation for the art of fly fishing.”
Our Waters
At Herring Creek Outfitters, we specialize in shallow water site fishing for striped bass on the crystal clear flats and winding estuaries of coastal Massachusetts. Guided by a passion for precision, conservation and quiet water our approach is built for anglers who appreciate the subtleties of the Hunt casting crab and shrimp patterns to cruising fish and ankle deep water under open skies. We operate from a purpose built technical point skiff designed for stealth, maneuverability, and exploration whether you're an experienced fly, angler, or stepping onto the bow for the first time we guide with patience, deep local knowledge, and a reference for the fish, the tides and the traditions of Northeast fly fishing. This is fly fishing at its most intimate where each cast matter the tides set the rhythm in a landscape does the rest.
The Mitzi 16 technical poling skiff, with a draft of only 6”, is able provide a stealthy approach to even the wariest striper cruising the flats. Equipped with a Yamaha 50, we are able to maintain not only speed but comfort as well while we cruise through the maze of estuaries.
Our Skiff
About the Guide
Colin Cournoyer is a lifelong New Englander and passionate fly angler with a deep connection to the title flats and estuaries of Massachusetts. Raised on Martha's Vineyard and based on the North Shore, he has spent over a decade exploring local waters, both with a fly rod in hand and through the lens of a camera. Colin specializes in shallow water site fishing for striped bass, combining patients, technical skill, and a sharp eye for detail. His approach is quiet and intentional, no overhyped, hero shots, no rushing the process just a deep respect for the fish in their environment. When he's not pulling the skiff or tying flies, Colin documents the rhythms of coastal life through film photography, capturing the subtle often overlooked beauty of the places he fishes. Above all he believes in making fly fishing, more accessible, thoughtful, and conservation minded for seasoned anglers and newcomers alik
Our Quarry
As Striped Bass make their way up the coast from the Chesapeake Bay, they make a pit stop in the northern region of New England in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine. Our focus is to intercept them along our pristine sand flats as they feed on European Green Crabs and Grass shrimp.
