River herring runs are a key ecological event in Massachusetts each spring, as species like alewife and blueback herring migrate from the ocean into freshwater rivers and ponds to spawn, according to the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries. State and local agencies closely monitor these runs, balancing conservation efforts with limited harvesting opportunities, the agency said.
Wareham Harbormaster Garry Buckminster said that residents can spot the herring mostly commonly in the Wareham River by the Wareham New Bedford Elk's Lodge 2855 Cranberry Highway.