Fishing Mashapaug Lake
AKA: Mashapaug Pond
Popular Fish Species Mashapaug Lake, CT
Rainbow Trout Fishing
Continual stocking programs by the Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection has helped to replenish and maintain a good population of rainbow trout for anglers at Mashapaug Lake. Fish for rainbow trout here with worms, salmon eggs, prepared baits, small spinners, spoons, jerkbaits and small crankbaits in vibrant colors to mimic their preferred prey. While fishing from a boat is preferred, plenty of trout are caught here by anglers fishing from the bank. Additionally, floating or sinking flies, such as nymphs, streamers, or dry flies, are popular choices for fly anglers targeting rainbow trout. Trolling with lures or flies behind a boat, casting near shoreline structures, or still fishing with bait can all yield success. Adjusting lure size, color, and retrieve speed can enhance chances of enticing these colorful and spirited fish. When the lake freezes over, try your luck at ice fishing.
Smallmouth Bass Fishing
Mashapaug Lake maintains a hearty smallmouth bass population. Many locals enjoy smallmouth fishing, as smallies are tough fighters and very exciting to catch. Smallmouth bass fishing is particularly good virtually anytime they are shallow. Use shallow spinnerbaits, buzzbaits, crankbaits, tube baits and jerkbaits around rip rap. Around grass, use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In winter, spend your time on deeper structure with drop-shot rigs, small worms, jigs and spoons. Largemouth bass also reside here in good numbers. Rock piles and points are prime areas for smallmouth as these areas are also home to crawfish. When the lake freezes over, consider ice fishing for smallies.
Yellow Perch Fishing
Yellow perch tend to spawn in the April to May timeframe, and the spawn has been strong for years at Mashapaug Lake. As a result, the lake continues to maintain a very healthy population of yellow perch, which have been a mainstay in the fishery for decades. They are fun to catch in winter when ice fishing as well. Yellow perch are great table fare, and are a food source for many predator fish in the lake. Fishing for yellow perch is simple, their primary diet consists of minnows and other small fish, insects and worms. Yellow perch tend to gather in small groups and hang out on relatively deep structure, near cover and/or drop-offs. Use a small hook and sinker. Bait a small hook with minnows, worms or small jigs using 6 to 10 pound line.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, black crappie, walleye, rainbow trout, brook trout, bluegill, green sunfish, pumpkinseed sunfish, yellow perch and chain pickerel at Mashapaug Lake in Connecticut.
Mashapaug Lake Fishing Video
Trout are a favorite species of most anglers at Mashapaug Lake, a 300-acre lake located in northeast Connecticut. There are about 4 miles of shoreline, most of which is only accessible only from a boat, kayak or canoe. In addition to trout, the lake has nice populations of bass, crappie, walleye, perch, sunfish and chain pickerel.
Mashapaug Lake, located in Union, Connecticut, is a scenic and popular destination for fishing enthusiasts. This 287-acre lake, nestled within Mashapaug Pond State Park, offers a peaceful and serene setting for anglers to enjoy a day on the water.
One of the popular fish species found in Mashapaug Lake is the largemouth bass. Anglers are drawn to this lake for its healthy population of largemouth bass, known for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic fights. The lake's shoreline, weed beds, and submerged structures provide excellent habitat for bass. Anglers often use techniques such as casting with plastic worms, topwater lures, or crankbaits to entice the largemouth bass in the lake's clear waters.
In addition to largemouth bass, Mashapaug Lake is also home to other sought-after species such as northern pike, chain pickerel, and various panfish species including bluegill and pumpkinseed. Pike and pickerel fishing can be particularly thrilling as these predatory fish offer powerful fights and exhilarating strikes. Anglers often use flashy spoons, spinnerbaits, or live bait to target these aggressive predators.
When planning a fishing trip to Mashapaug Lake, anglers should familiarize themselves with the fishing regulations specific to the lake, including size and creel limits for different fish species. Adhering to these regulations helps maintain the health of the fish population and ensures sustainable fishing practices.
Mashapaug Lake in Connecticut offers anglers a tranquil and rewarding fishing experience, with its diverse fish species, scenic surroundings, and boating opportunities. Whether you're targeting bass, pike, pickerel, or panfish, Mashapaug Lake provides a serene setting for anglers to enjoy a memorable fishing adventure in the heart of nature.
Primary fish species residing in Mashapaug Lake
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Mashapaug Lake Amenities
Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: NEARBY
RV Hookups: NEARBY
Lodging: NEARBY
Convenience Store: NEARBY
Bait & Tackle: NEARBY
Restaurant: YES
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boating is a popular activity on Mashapaug Lake, allowing anglers to explore the lake's different areas and find their preferred fishing spots. The lake permits both motorized and non-motorized boats, providing flexibility for anglers to choose their preferred mode of transportation. Canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards are commonly seen on the lake, offering a peaceful and intimate fishing experience.
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Mashapaug Pond Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast section of the lake, off Bigelow Brook Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
Fishing Guides On Mashapaug Lake
If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.
Fishing License
Click here for a Connecticut Fishing License.
Camping facilities are available within Mashapaug Pond State Park, providing an opportunity for anglers to extend their fishing trips and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. The park offers tent camping sites, picnic areas, and amenities such as restrooms and hiking trails, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
Beaver Pines Campground - 860 974-0110
Nipmuck State Forest Campground - 860 424-3630
Mashapaug Lake CT Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Mashapaug Lake
Nipmuck State Forest
166 Chestnut Hill Rd
Stafford, CT 06076
860 424-3630
Fishing lakes in each state.
082324
Mashapaug Lake in Connecticut.
CONNECTICUT
Information about fishing lakes in Connecticut
Fishing for trout, bass, crappie, walleye, perch, sunfish and chain pickerel, at Mashapaug Lake, in northeast CT.
