Guide To Walleye Fishing In Connecticut
Connecticut offers exciting walleye fishing opportunities in select lakes and rivers throughout the state. While walleye populations are not as abundant as other species, dedicated anglers can still find success targeting these elusive fish.
One popular lake for walleye fishing in Connecticut is Lake Candlewood. Known for its diverse fishery, including walleye, this lake provides anglers with a chance to catch these prized game fish. Other lakes that may offer walleye fishing opportunities include Highland Lake, Bantam Lake, and Coventry Lake.
Connecticut's rivers can also provide opportunities for walleye fishing. The Housatonic River, in particular, has been known to harbor walleye populations. Anglers targeting walleye in rivers often focus their efforts during the spring and fall seasons when these fish are more active.
Connecticut's state record for walleye stands at over 15 pounds, showcasing the potential for trophy-sized fish in the state's waters. While landing a record-breaking walleye is no easy feat, it adds to the excitement and challenge of walleye fishing in Connecticut.
When targeting walleye, anglers often use a variety of techniques and lures. Trolling with crankbaits or jigging with live bait such as nightcrawlers or minnows are popular methods for enticing these fish. Walleye tend to be more active during low-light periods, such as dawn and dusk, so timing your fishing trips accordingly can increase your chances of success.
It's important to familiarize yourself with the fishing regulations specific to walleye fishing in Connecticut, as there may be restrictions on season dates, catch limits, and minimum size requirements. Following these regulations helps to maintain the health and sustainability of the walleye populations.
While walleye fishing in Connecticut may require some research and persistence, the reward of landing these elusive fish is well worth the effort. Whether you choose to fish in lakes or rivers, Connecticut provides a promising walleye fishing experience for dedicated anglers.
Walleye prefer moderately deep lakes with gravel, rock or sandy bottoms. It is found primarily in cold water lakes but has proven to survive in warmer impoundments. It is prized for its great tasting filets. Click here to learn all about walleye fishing and are an ideal target for ice fishing.
Walleye Lakes In CT
For walleye in CT, try your luck at Beach Pond, Candlewood Lake, Crystal Lake, Gardner Lake, Lake Saltonstall, Lake Zoar, Mashapaug Lake, Saugatuck Reservoir, Squantz Pond and West Thompson Lake. The Connecticut state record walleye was caught out of Beach Pond.
Click the images and links above for species details.
Top lures for walleye in Connecticut
Jigs work well in virtually any depth water. When walleyes are shallow, spinnerbaits, small crankbaits and rip baits are the often very productive. As they move deeper, spoons and ice jigs are ideal for active walleye. Understanding the seasonal movements of walleyes can enhance your chances of selecting the right lures for conditions on local waters.
Connecticut State Walleye, Sauger & Saugeye Records
The state record walleye was caught out of Beach Pond.
Fishing For Walleye
Connecticut walleye spawn in spring and when they have the option will choose to migrate from the lake up into feeder streams to spawn. If this option is not available they seek out shallow bars or shoals with clean bottom surfaces near deep water.
This toothy fish will eat virtually anything it can catch and get in its mouth. They prefer small fish and will eat crustaceans, worms and insects. They tend to be somewhat wary and prefer the safety of deeper darker water. Trolling for walleye with deep diving crankbaits, jerkbaits, spinners and live bait provides a way to cover vast areas and locate concentrations of fish. Use of planer boards allows anglers to cover water out both sides of the boat while trolling. Try fishing for walleye from sundown to midnight, particularly during the heat of summer.
Watch this video for walleye tips and tactics.
Walleye Resources
In-Fisherman - Walleye
U.S. Fish & Wildlife - Walleye
The National Wildlife Federation - Walleye
Also find information about walleye, sauger or saugeye fishing in these states.
Learn the migration patterns of walleye
Walleye become active in spring and begin the spawning process in medium-depth water. As summer arrives they move to deeper, cooler water. In fall walleye migrate into shallower water again and feed aggressively preparing for their move to deeper water where they will spend winter.
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