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Freshwater Fishing Destinations in Connecticut

Jul. 29 2022 Travel Tips By Thayer's Marine

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Connecticut is a great place for freshwater fishing enthusiasts. After all, the state is home to over 180 public lakes and ponds as well as thousands of miles of rivers and streams. You can catch a large variety of game fish and pan fish, including bass, trout, and pike.

Below we cover some of our favorite spots to take a freshwater fishing boat. For more travel tips or to explore freshwater fishing boats for sale, visit Thayer’s Marine. We are based in Norwich, Connecticut.

Crescent Lake - Southington

Enjoy freshwater fishing in this 56 acre lake. When the temperature gets cold enough, you can also enjoy some ice fishing! Commonly caught fish in this area include largemouth bass, blue catfish, trout, and black crappie.

The park's hours are from dawn until dusk every day, giving you plenty of opportunity to enjoy time on the water.

There are a few rules and regulations to be aware of, including:

  • All state boating rules will apply here.
  • Only electric motor boats are allowed.
  • No fishing in front of the boat ramp.

Farmington River - Windsor

It will take you about 2-3 hours to cruise down the Farmington River in your freshwater fishing boat. The total distance is 9 miles and there are over 30 access points, which means plenty of places to set up and cast your line. Commonly caught fish here include brown trout, rainbow trout, and smallmouth bass. This site is one of two prized fishing waters in the state.

It's important to note that this river is known for cold temperatures, strong currents, and unknown underwater hazards. If you want to enjoy activities beyond freshwater fishing, such as swimming or paddling, be sure to check current water conditions. Safety first!

Cockaponset State Forest - Haddam

Connecticut's second largest state forest is also home to some great freshwater fishing! Take your freshwater fishing boat to Stevenson Pond, Tower Hill Lake, Deep River, Horse Pond, Turkey Hill, Pattaconk Reservoirs - the list goes on and on!

Mansfield Hollow Park - Mansfield

Mansfield Hollow Lake is a 500-acre lake created by the damming of the Natchaug River, which was done by the Army Corps of Engineers. The park is open from 8am to sunset, providing plenty of time to enjoy some freshwater fishing.

Nearby this park are additional places to take your freshwater fishing boat. Mashamoquet Brook State Park is only 5 miles southwest of Putnam, which offers stream fishing alongside other outdoor activities. Natchaug State Forest is only 4 miles south of Phoenixville. It's located where the Bigelow and Still Rivers join to form the Natchaug River, which leads to excellent fishing opportunities!

Before you can enjoy these adventures, you will need a boat. Thayer's Marine carries a wide range of freshwater fishing boats for sale. See our available models online or at our dealership in Norwich, Connecticut. We also proudly serve those in Springfield, Massachusetts.