Fishing Pascoag Reservoir

AKA: Echo Lake

By AA-Fishing Staff Writers

Popular Fish Species Pascoag Reservoir, RI

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Largemouth Bass Fishing

Fishing for largemouth bass in Pascoag Reservoir can be challenging, however an occasional bass over 4 pounds are being caught. Bass often move shallow and become fairly aggressive when they are in a feeding mood. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap. Around grass, use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In deeper water, drop shot rigs, big worms, jigs and spoons are good options. In winter, spend your time fishing deeper structure where the bass spend much of their time. In winter when the lake freezes over and the ice is safe, bass can also be caught while ice fishing.

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Black Crappie Fishing

A decent population of black crappie resides in Pascoag Reservoir. Crappie tend to run in schools, and once a school is located, there is a good chance for catching significant numbers. Crappie fishing is easy and requires simple, basic gear. Virtually any fishing pole, reasonably small line and crappie jigs or small hooks baited with live bait, creates the ideal setup. Add a bobber and you can set the depth you prefer the bait to maintain. The best time to catch crappie tends to be at dawn and dusk. Live bait and small jigs are the most common method for crappie here. When the lake freezes over, ice fishing is often a great way to catch a nice bunch of slabs. Because crappie prefer cover and structure, locate brush and vegetation in appropriate water depths.

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Yellow Perch Fishing

Yellow perch tend to spawn in the April to May timeframe, and the spawn has been strong for years at Pascoag Reservoir. 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.

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Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, black crappie, bluegill, redbreast sunfish, pumpkinseed sunfish, yellow perch and northern pike at Pascoag Reservoir in Rhode Island.

Pascoag Reservoir Fishing Video

A small lake with big bass, Pascoag Reservoir (Echo Lake) is a 350-acre lake in the northwest corner of the state, at Pascoag, RI. Fishing enthusiasts can fish for bass, sunfish, perch and pike, with bass being the most popular.

Pascoag Reservoir is a beautiful freshwater lake located in the northern section of Rhode Island, near the village of Pascoag. Spanning over 300 acres, this reservoir offers a fantastic fishing experience for both local anglers and visitors.

Fishing at Pascoag Reservoir is popular throughout the year, with a variety of fish species to target. Largemouth bass is undoubtedly one of the prized catches here. Anglers can often be found casting their lures and working the shoreline in search of these elusive and hard-fighting bass.

Northern pike is another top predator in Pascoag Reservoir, providing thrilling action for anglers who target them. These toothy fish are known for their aggressive strikes and powerful runs, making them a challenging and rewarding catch.

Panfish species, such as bluegill, yellow perch, redbreast sunfish, and pumpkinseed, are abundant in the reservoir. These fish are perfect for beginners or families looking to enjoy a day of relaxed and fun fishing. Anglers can use simple rigs with live baits or small lures to catch these feisty panfish.

Pascoag Reservoir provides a well-rounded fishing experience with a mix of challenging game fish and more relaxed panfish angling. Whether you're an avid bass angler or a family looking for a fun fishing outing, Pascoag Reservoir offers something for everyone to enjoy amidst the picturesque landscape of northern Rhode Island.

Private property, much of it dotted with boat docks, lines most of the 5 miles of shoreline around the lake. However there are areas on the western shore that one can fish from the bank. There are two primary locations for launching boats. The Echo Lake State Boat Launch is located in the southwest corner of the lake, and there is a boat launch ramp at Echo Lake Campground. There are special horse power limits for boats at certain times of the year. Check with Rhode Island DEM for details - 401 222-4700. Due to the boat motor restrictions, car-top boats, canoes, kayaks and electric powered boats can be ideal here.

Primary fish species residing in Echo Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Pascoag Reservoir Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: NEARBY
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: NO
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

The combination of excellent fishing and serene surroundings makes Pascoag Reservoir a popular spot for boating and camping as well. Anglers can explore the lake's waters by boat, soaking in the tranquility and natural beauty of the area. Additionally, camping facilities nearby allow visitors to extend their fishing adventure and immerse themselves in the peaceful ambiance of the reservoir.

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Echo Lake State Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest corner of the lake, off Widow Smith Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Marinas

The Boat House
205 Reservoir Rd
Pascoag, RI 02859

Fishing License

Click here for a Rhode Island Fishing License.

Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby

Echo Lake Campground - 401 568-7109

George Washington State Campground - 401 568-6700

Echo Lake RI Map - Fishing & Camping Areas

Contact Information

Pascoag Reservoir
Echo Lake Campground
200 Moroney Road
Pascoag, RI 02859
401 568-7109

Fishing lakes in each state.

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