Boat Ramps in Essex County, MA

Your complete guide to public boat ramps and launches in Essex County, Massachusetts. Find detailed information on 107 boat ramps including locations, amenities, and launch tips.

107 Boat Ramps

Complete Guide to Boating in Essex County

Essex County provides boaters with 107 public launch points accessing coastal harbors and surrounding waters. The county's position in Massachusetts places anglers and recreational boaters within reach of productive tidal rivers known for striped bass and bluefish. Local launches range from well-developed facilities with ample parking to simpler access points favored by kayakers and small boat operators. Whether you're targeting specific species or exploring new waters, Essex County's boat ramps serve as gateways to quality time on the water. This directory provides details on each launch to help you choose the right facility for your vessel and plans.

Local Waters & Conditions

Essex County's waterways encompass coastal harbors and tidal rivers, creating a mosaic of boating environments within the county. Anglers find striped bass and bluefish in these waters, with largemouth bass and trout available seasonally. The rocky coastlines and historic harbors characteristic of this region define the on-water experience. Water depth, clarity, and current vary between locations, influencing both navigation and fishing tactics. Boaters new to the area benefit from exploring multiple launches to discover which waters best match their interests and capabilities.

Fishing Guide

Anglers launching in Essex County target striped bass, bluefish, largemouth bass, and trout depending on season and water type. Spring striper runs draw anglers from across the region Local patterns often differ from statewide trends, making information from area tackle shops particularly valuable. striper fishing draws serious practitioners, while casual anglers enjoy steady action on walleye. Live bait and artificial options both produce depending on conditions and angler preference. Tournament activity on area waters reflects the quality of fishing available, though recreational anglers find plenty of productive water beyond competition zones.

Local Amenities

Essex County provides boaters with supporting services including tackle shops, marine fuel, and convenience stores within reasonable distance of most launches. Repair facilities handle common issues, though specialized service may require travel to larger communities. Restaurants and lodging serve visitors planning extended stays, making the county viable as a base for multi-day fishing trips. Ice, bait, and basic supplies are generally available, though selection varies. Checking availability before arrival, particularly for live bait during peak periods, prevents wasted time. Local businesses often display fishing reports and can point visitors toward productive patterns.

About Essex County Boat Launches

Essex County supports boaters through 107 public access points distributed across the county. Facility quality ranges from developed ramps with full amenities to primitive launches best suited for smaller craft. Water depth at ramps can fluctuate with conditions, affecting which vessels can launch safely at any given time. Reviewing individual ramp details before your trip prevents surprises and helps you choose a facility matching your boat and towing setup. Weekend competition for ramp time suggests either early arrival or consideration of less trafficked alternatives.

Planning Your Trip

Before launching in Essex County, gather information specific to your destination and planned activities. Weather, water conditions, and seasonal patterns all influence what to expect on the water. The launch listings below provide coordinates, access details, and user ratings where available. Combining this information with current conditions from local sources creates a foundation for productive outings. Fall foliage and fishing combine for spectacular experiences Adjusting plans based on conditions rather than forcing a trip under unfavorable circumstances leads to better experiences and safer boating.

Complete Guide to Boating in Essex County

Local Waters & Conditions

Fishing Guide

Local Amenities

About Essex County Boat Launches

Planning Your Trip

Map of Boat Ramps in Essex County

All Boat Ramps in Essex County

Newbury, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Newbury, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Newbury, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Gloucester, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Merrimac, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Long Wharf Landing

Gloucester, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Margin Street Boat Ramp

Draper's Point

Kernwood Marina

Andover, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Rowley, Massachusetts Boat Launch

First Settlers' Landing

Newburyport, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Newburyport, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Newburyport, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Salisbury, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Joppa Slip

The Slip

Ipswich, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Rowley, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Ipswich, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Newburyport, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Newbury, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Newburyport, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Sandy Beach Boat Ramp

Salem, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Marblehead, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Salisbury, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Newbury, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Newbury Landing

Ipswich, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Rockport, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Marblehead, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Chebacco Lake Boat Ramp

Ipswich, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Kettle Cove Landing

Four-mile Pond Ramp

Shawsheen Pines Canoe Launch

Boxford, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Baldpate Pond Ramp

Newburyport, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Newburyport, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Salem, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Gloucester, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Gloucester, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Gloucester, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Rockport, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Amesbury, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Amesbury, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Popes Landing

Danvers, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Lynn, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Groveland, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Boxford, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Haverhill, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Haverhill, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Briarcliff Lodge Boat Ramp

Crocker Boat Yard

Salisbury, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Haverhill, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Gloucester, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Marblehead, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Marblehead, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Gloucester, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Greens Point Boatyard

Salem, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Newburyport, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Gloucester, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Amesbury, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Methuen, Massachusetts Boat Launch

Corliss Landing