To go along with what Larry posted, there is access to the water around the 495 bridge, especially along the town line into North Andover, specifically Sutton Street. There are a few parking lots and side streets along Sutton St. Also uo into Lawrence at the dam there is shore access. There is a small public boat ramp right next to the dam. Only for small boats to perhaps 18' or so. Occassional excellent shad fishing. Striper fishing peaks at about mid-June, with several people trying to live line herring ( or whatever) on top of each other, and dwindles quickly. Not my kind of fishing....hardly the great escape to the outdoors. Urban fishing, almost inner city fishing. Last time I tried wading up near the dam....floating hypodermic needles in the water and a dead prostitute....FUN!!