Connecticut is full of history and nature, and there are lots of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors in the state. You’ll love the New England charm found in many of Connecticut’s smaller communities. And another highlight is the excellent fishing in Connecticut, which is located near those towns. While you’ll need to check state fishing requirements and purchase your license, you can look forward to relaxing at these good fishing spots in Connecticut.
Fishing Spots in Connecticut
Here are some of the best fishing spots in Connecticut. You’ll find a variety of fish to catch in the state, and you can enjoy the beautiful New England scenery as well.
Farmington River
The section of the Farmington River from Riverton to New Hartford is an excellent place to go fly fishing. The 200-foot-high dam, which consistently releases water, keeps trout fishing consistent throughout the spring, summer, and fall. Some special regulations apply to the two Trout Management Areas on this river, including using barbless hooks. Try matching your dry fly bait to what is hatching in the area on that given day. This may mean you need to bring various options, including sulphur flies, Hendrickson, and Griffith’s gnats with you.
You’ll find campgrounds in Hartford that are great choices for RVers.
Candlewood Lake
Candlewood Lake near Brookfield is the largest lake in Connecticut, and it’s bordered by Brookfield, Danbury, New Fairfield, New Milford, and Sherman. It is also consistently ranked as one of the top bass lakes in the state. This lake has many underwater ledges and hiding places that trout love. Brown and rainbow trout are also regularly caught in this lake.
Quinnipiac River
There are several excellent fishing spots along the Quinnipiac River. The state regularly stocks the river gorge, from Carpenter’s Dam down to Red Bridge, making it ideal for trout fishing. This river near New Haven produces a healthy perch crop, and anglers can sometimes catch good-sized white bass. As the river enters the tidal wave area near New Haven Harbor, fishing for bluefish can be outstanding.
You’ll find campgrounds in New Haven that put you close to the river.
Bantam Lake
Bantam Lake near Litchfield is the largest natural body of water in Connecticut. This lake is a pike fishery with anglers often catching pike between 10 and 15 pounds. Bantam is also a terrific spot to go fishing in Connecticut for large and smallmouth bass, and there are 10 to 15 bass fishing tournaments here every year. While you can fish from a boat on this lake, there are also wheelchair-friendly fishing piers.
Mill River
There are two Trout Management Areas on the Mill River, and both areas are terrific places to go fishing. The upper one is in Easton, and anglers can catch and release fish with a single barbless hook and artificial lures. The lower Trout Management Area is open for fishing from September to April. Except for opening day, anglers can use the bait they want and keep what they catch.
Mashapaug Pond
Mashapaug Pond is a 287-acre lake in Bigelow Hollow State Park near Union. This is a fantastic place to go fishing for large and smallmouth bass. State officials stock this pond with brown and rainbow trout during the spring. In the fall, the state stocks it with walleye. Anglers can also catch yellow perch at this spot.
Quinebaug Lake
The sand and gravel bottom of Quinebaug Lake gives largemouth bass great places to hide. Anglers often have the best luck fishing with crankbaits and topwater plugs at this lake because the underwater vegetation is thin. State officials stock rainbow and brown trout at this location near Killingly annually. There are also a few smallmouth bass. This lake is in Quinebaug Pond State Park, and they have a boat ramp, but motors bigger than five horsepower are not allowed here.
Where to Fish in Connecticut
In order to make fishing more accessible to everyone, Connecticut stocks several community fishing lakes with channel catfish and trout annually. These lakes tend to be in the state’s center, including New Britain, Bristol, Waterbury, and Derby.
Connecticut’s center is home to two rivers that are part of the Atlantic Salmon Management Area, where state officials take action to ensure that excellent salmon fishing exists. In the northeast corner of the state, you can find many trout management areas, although there are options around the state. The eastern part is home to several lakes where you can only fly fish. If you’re looking to go fishing in the sea, then consider the Long Island Sound.
Camping and Fishing in Connecticut
Fishing and camping in Connecticut are a treat. Trout and salmon often require unique state-issued stamps, so if you plan on catching those, make sure you have the proper permits.
With so many options, figuring out where to go fishing in Connecticut may seem daunting at first. Look for unique opportunities in state parks designed to teach people how to camp and fish. These special programs often come at a low cost, while others are free.
With an RV rental, your fishing trip will be a little more comfortable! After you’ve spent a long day fishing, grill up your catch right at your campsite. Then, retire inside to enjoy all the comforts of home on board your RV. Plan your perfect fishing getaway with an RV rental from RVshare.
