Let’s Go Fishing!

By Sarah Wright

With the recent stay-at-home order, by now you may be feeling a bit stir crazy. Just remember that nature is still open. There are so many outdoor activities available in the area, especially now that the weather is warming up. If you haven’t experienced fishing yet, this could be the perfect time to try it. After all, this is the “Lakes” Region, and that means there are lots of fish to catch. 

Fishing is fun for everyone, and it’s easy to get started. It’s also a great way to bond with family and friends, and share stories and laughs while waiting for a bite. Whether you’re catching dinner, or choosing to “catch and release,” it’ll be a memorable experience for everyone. And, kids under age 16 can fish for free.

The most obvious fishing spots might be the larger lakes, with salmon, trout, and smallmouth bass, but the area also has sparkling streams and rivers, and small ponds that offer many opportunities for fishing. At different times of the year, more than a dozen fish species can be caught from the shores of Lakes Region waters. You might catch a bluegill, cusk, crappie, perch, or pickerel, among others. But before you head out, you’ll need the right gear. A successful fishing day requires a rod and reel (of course); a tackle box with hooks, bobbers, non-lead sinkers, artificial or live bait, and a pair of pliers; a cooler with ice if you’re planning on bringing your catch home; and snacks and drinks for everyone. Basic rod-and-reel fishing poles can be easily found at sporting goods stores and large discount stores, or even yard sales. If you have small children, look for barbless hooks which are easier to remove from clothing, fish, and (hopefully not) fingers. It’s also important to dress for the weather, and pack bug spray, sunscreen, and a hat before you head out. 

Here are some suggestions for local places to fish and what you might catch there.

Scenic Winnisquam Lake has rainbow and lake trout in its waters, along with smallmouth bass and white perch. NH Fish and Game’s accessible boat launch site offers shoreline space to hook a salmon or trout in the early season, and largemouth bass and yellow perch in the summer months. Don’t overlook nearby Opechee Bay, another great place to fish that’s within walking distance of downtown Laconia. There are opportunities here for rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, and yellow perch. Opechee Park is a great place to take kids fishing, with a beach and playground to entertain little ones in the summertime. Another spot with plenty of access is below the Lakeport Dam where there’s shoreline on both sides of the inlet. 

Many of the smaller lakes in the area offer excellent warm and coldwater fishing in a quieter, more peaceful setting. Fish and Game has a cartop access site at Pemigewasset Lake, with a fishing platform that cantilevers out over the lake. Anglers of all abilities can catch six different warm water fish species from this scenic spot, like largemouth bass, black crappie, yellow perch, and pickerel. There is plenty of parking available here, and also at Waukewan Lake as well. The south end of Waukewan provides lots of shoreline next to the railroad. There are many warm-water species here, and also rainbow trout. 

Naturally, the area’s most famous lake, Winnipesaukee, offers endless fishing opportunities. An added bonus is that most towns around the lake have restaurants open for take-out and ice cream for when it’s time for a break. The Meredith town docks at Hesky Park are a popular destination for shoreline fishing. For a quieter spot with access to similar fish species, try the Center Harbor town docks. The far-reaching dock is great for early season salmon and rainbow trout. At other times of the year, you can catch bass, perch, or pickerel. Within walking distance of the Loon Preservation Center in Moultonborough, the Lees Mills Boat Launch is a good spot for fishing for warm-water fish, and there is plenty of shoreline access. The location of the Wolfeboro town docks works well, too, because it’s right where the Smith River flows into Lake Winnipesaukee. The spot is popular in the spring for salmon and rainbow trout, and for perch and smallmouth bass in the summertime. Alton town docks are another great option for those same fish species. Other good possibilities around the region include Newfound Lake for salmon and lake trout, the Governors Island Bridge in Gilford, Weirs Channel in Laconia, or the Long Island Bridge in Moultonborough. Stream fishing is good for trout, and there are opportunities on the Smith, Pemigewasset, and Baker rivers. If you’re into fly-fishing or would like to try it, check out Saltmarsh Pond in Gilford or Upper Hall Pond in Sandwich. 

For those who plan to “catch and release,” the New Hampshire Fish and Game has some tips on how to properly handle fish and best ensure its chances for survival. First, land the fish quickly. Next, remove the hook very carefully by gently backing it out of the fish’s mouth, using pliers if necessary. If you can, release the fish while it’s still in the water. Definitely do not shake a fish off the hook, unhook a fish while it’s suspended in the air, or sharply pull the hook out while the fish is twisting. 

Ever thought about going fishing, but weren’t sure about local license requirements? Look no further than the Sumner Brook Fish Farm in Ossipee. A family owned and operated fish farm and hatchery since 1987, Sumner Brook has lots of trout, including Brown, Brook, and Rainbow. Keep what you catch and pay per fish, with no license required! You can bring your own pole or rent one for just a dollar. Don’t forget to purchase some worms, too. It’s a great opportunity to teach your kids how to fish. The fish farm is located at 277 Route 16 in Ossipee. They are usually open for trout fishing on weekends starting on Memorial Day, but this year’s opening day has not yet been determined. During the off-season, kids are welcome to visit the fish and feed them. For the latest information, visit www.sumnerbrookfishfarm.com or call 603-539-7232. 

Otherwise, everyone in your family who is age 16 or older must have a fishing license. Purchase a temporary license or a seasonal one at www.fishnh.com, at Fish and Game Headquarters in Concord, from licensed agents at bait and tackle shops, retail stores (like Walmart and Dick’s Sporting Goods) or through local town or city clerk offices. Call ahead to find out which options are available at this time. For a full list of where to buy licenses, visit www.wildlife.state.nh.us and click on the “Fishing” tab. NH Fish and Game also holds fishing classes through its Let’s Go Fishing program. The current class schedule is also on the website, along with helpful resources like a bi-weekly fishing report on conditions across the state and fishing season dates.

There’s nothing like the excitement of getting a bite on your fishing line!