Wild Fish Swim Festival

Wild Fish Swim Festival

Sun August 9, 2026

Salem, MA 01970 US

Race Info

This annual community open water swim event typically attracts an average of 200 swimmers split between three different distances. The temperature of the water is typically about 66 degrees F. The swim takes place in a calm, protected cove, and is well supported with at least a dozen volunteers in kayaks/paddleboarders. Cozy unisex t-shirts will be guaranteed for all participants pre-registered by August 1st. Latex swim caps will be provided for all swimmers. If you are allergic to latex, please feel free to bring your own.

Distances

• 1/2 Mile
• 1 Mile
• 2 Mile

Time

12PM start (Registration/Packet pickup opens at 10:45AM)

Location

Collins Cove Beach, Salem, MA. (GPS 102 Webb St. Salem, MA)

Wave Start Times

• 8AM – 2 Mile Swimmers
• 8:05AM – 1 Mile Swimmers
• 8:15AM – ½ Mile Swimmers

Award Categories

• Top 3 M/F Wetsuit in each swim distance - 1/2, 1 and 2 Mile
• Top 3 M/F Non-Wetsuit in each swim distance - 1/2, 1 and 2 Mile

Post Race Festivities

Several packaged snacks and fruit will be available for swimmer’s post-race. Coffee including drip, lattes and cold brew will be available for purchase. Piccolo Piatti, offering fresh juices, smoothies, smoothie bowls, and more, is located across from the race venue. Longboards Restaurant and Bar on Pickering Wharf Marina is offering 15% off food for participants.

Parking

Street parking along the beach is limited, neighborhood parking is available. All overflow parking will be at Bentley School Parking lot (25 Memorial Drive, Salem, MA). Athletes, please follow the newly paved walking path directly across from the school parking lot to the race site.

Special Details and Information

• No floaties, fins or paddles allowed. Inflatable buoys are allowed.
• Plenty of kayakers, paddleboarders, and emergency boats in the water for athlete safety.
• Event organizers reserve the right to change/cancel or modify categories if there is not enough interest. Refunds and transfers are eligible in such cases.
• Distance or Category Changes: Email [email protected] in advance or notify registration on race day. A change fee may apply.

Water Temperature Guidelines

FINA’s Open Water Swim rules state a minimum water temperature of 16 degrees C (60.8 F) for races. If lower, the event may be shortened or canceled. Wetsuits are optional at 14 degrees C (57.2 F). The swim will be canceled if temperatures are less than 12 degrees C (53.6 F).

Weather & Refunds

In case of event cancellation due to public safety, inclement weather, or unsafe waters, the event will not be rescheduled. Refunds, deferments, and transfers are free through July 1st. After July 1st, deferments/transfers incur a $10 admin fee. No refunds after July 1st.

Questions

Email B&S Event Management at [email protected] or call 978-204-8588.