Fishing At Bow Lake
AKA: Bow Lake Strafford
What to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, rainbow trout, brown trout, bluegill, pumpkinseed sunfish, white perch, yellow perch and chain pickerel at Bow Lake in New Hampshire.

Quality largemouth and smallmouth bass fishing draws anglers to Bow Lake, a 1,200-acre lake in the southeast part of the state, at Cornway. The 7 miles of shoreline offer boat docks, lay downs and rocky areas for anglers to explore.
Bow Lake, located in Strafford County, New Hampshire, is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts. This picturesque lake spans over 1,100 acres and offers excellent opportunities to catch a variety of fish species. Anglers flock to Bow Lake for its abundant populations of smallmouth bass and largemouth bass. These species thrive in the lake's diverse habitat, including rocky shorelines, submerged structures, and weedy areas. Anglers can also target other fish species such as pickerel, white perch, and panfish like bluegill and sunfish.
In addition to its great fishing, Bow Lake is a favorite spot for boating enthusiasts. The calm and clear waters make it ideal for various water activities, including water skiing, tubing, and kayaking. Boaters can explore the lake's scenic beauty, navigate its coves and bays, and enjoy a day on the water with family and friends.
For those who want to extend their stay, Bow Lake offers opportunities for camping. There are several campgrounds in the area that provide amenities such as RV sites, tent camping, and access to the lake. Camping near Bow Lake allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the surroundings and enjoy the peacefulness of the lake.
The combination of great fishing, boating opportunities, and camping options make Bow Lake a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts in New Hampshire. Whether you're casting a line from a boat or the shore, cruising the lake's waters, or spending the night under the stars, Bow Lake offers a memorable and enjoyable experience for anglers, boaters, and campers alike.
In addition to bass, the lake has good fishing for trout, sunfish, perch and pickerel. A public boat launch ramp is located at Bow Lake Village. Campgrounds, RV parks and lodging are all nearby.
Primary fish species residing in Bow Lake
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Bow Lake Amenities
Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: NEARBY
RV Hookups: NEARBY
Lodging: NEARBY
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES
Today's Weather & Forecast
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Bow Lake Public Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast section of the lake, off Water Street, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with gravel parking a few blocks away.
Click here for a New Hampshire Fishing License.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
Saddleback Campground - 603 942-7285
Ayers Lake Farm Campground & Cottages - 603 335-1110
Bow Lake NH Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Lake Video
Contact Information
Bow Lake
Bow Lake Community Club
569 Province Rd
Strafford, NH 03884
603 664-2688
Fishing lakes in each state.
Bow Lake in NH
NEW HAMPSHIRE


Fishing for bass and trout in southeast NH.