I got on the water around 1:30 and fished some black and blue fleck hula grubs on a 1/4 ounce jighead on the East side of the lake, with no luck in the first 30 minutes. I then decided to switch gears and hit the West shoreline since I figured the water would be a few degrees warmer from the strong morning sun.  On the way over I hit some of the submerged rock piles with no luck.

Once on the other side of the lake I started throwing watermelon cabin creek spider jigs and texas rigged senkos around my favorite deeper water docks (which aren’t so deep anymore now that the lake is down over 2 feet).  I got a strike on my third cast and landed a 2 lb largemouth bass on a jig. Hoping I had found a pattern I kept fishing the sunny side of docks on the West shore.  20 minutes went by and finally another hit, again off a deep water dock, and another 2lb largemouth.

I didn’t find any other fish on the West side, but did catch a couple smallmouth on the North shore fishing some submerged rock piles in 6 feet of water.  Senkos produced nothing no matter what color, size or presentation I threw… One of the smallmouth I caught was so dark it look black.  As I was reeling it in I actually thought it was the first freshwater tautog (a.k.a. blackfish for those who don’t know what a tautog is).

I fished for another 45 minutes on the East shore with not as much as a hit, and then I called it a day around 4:30… It wasn’t a great day but with a cold front coming through this week, lowered water levels, and cold fall water, at least I caught something.

Hopefully I will be able to get out at least one more time this year on the lake, but it may not happen if the weather continues to get colder and the lake gets more shallow.

We got out on the water around 7:30am and started fishing shallow structure with everything from texas rigged senkos to spinnerbaits with no luck. After finding nothing in the shallows we went across the lake to fish deeper water and structure. Brian stuck with a senko and I switched over to a black and blue spider grub (technically it was the chompers hula grub). We both fished around the docks and pontoon boats (the ones that are still in the water) with minimal luck.

We both persevered with our respective baits and fished for about an hour with nothing more than a couple nibbles, until we got to some deeper docks on the north west shore of the lake. Just as I was commenting that I should be getting fish on spider grubs this time of year, I hooked up with a 2 pound largemouth. The next cast resulted in a 2.5lb largemouth. Having thought I found a pattern we continued fishing the deep water docks, and managed to find another 6 or seven fish including 2 smallmouth. Brian ended up landing only a smallmouth and 1 largemouth on the senko, despite his 5 hours of hard work casting and skipping his bait under the docks.

Largest fish of the day was only about 3lbs, and they were few and far between, but hopefully once our weather pattern settles down and the rain stops we will see some better fall fishing. If anyone is having success with other baits this time of the year let me know via the comments section below!

CT DEP Freshwater and Marine Fishing Reports for September 25th 2008

INLAND REPORT

TROUT

Fall Trout Stocking update- This week, DEP stocked the Shetucket River, Salmon River (including the TMA), Natchaug River, Scantic River, Hammonasset River (including the TMA), Mashapaug Lake, and the Chatfield Hollow, Mohegan Park Pond and Day Pond Trout Parks with a total of 6,000 brown trout (these fish are in the 11-14” range). The Valley Falls Park Pond Trout Park was stocked with 200 standard-size rainbow trout.

Rivers & streams – Conditions (moderate temperatures and flows) have been good for late summer/early fall trout fishing, with good reports from the West Branch Farmington, Farmington, Mill (Fairfield), Norwalk, Naugatuck and Shetucket Rivers. Fishing should continue to improve as we move deeper into autumn. As water temperatures cool, anglers can expect aggressive pre-spawn trout taking streamers with heavy hits. Try white, yellow and brown colors. Nymphing also picks up in October, and patterns to try include Midge Pupa/Larva, Brassie, Zebra Midge, Micro Mayfly, Serendipity & Copper John. Several days of rain are in the forecast, so anglers venturing out this weekend are reminded that flows in smaller tributaries typically rise quickest, but also drop back to fishable levels quickest. Anglers are also reminded that Real time stream flow data from 51 USGS gauging stations can be found at the following USGS web page: http://waterdata.usgs.gov/ct/nwis/current/?type=flow

FARMINGTON RIVER – West Branch flows are currently clear and low, but will increase following completion of DEP’s annual electrofishing survey on Thursday. At that time flows at Riverton are expected to increase to 300-400 cfs. As several days of rain are expected, flows, especially below the confluence with the Still River could increase significantly this weekend. Patterns/hatches include Tricos (Trycorythodes stygiatus, #22-28, 7:00am-10:00am, Riverton Area), Isonychia bicolor (major hatch, #10-14, fast water, afternoon/evening), Blue Wing Olives (Drunella & Baetis sps., #22-28, mid-late afternoon), Cahills/Summer (Stenonema ithaca (#18-22), Sulfurs duns (Heptagenia sps., #16-20, below the dam due to low temperatures, morning; afternoon to early evening for spinners), Caddis (tan #14-18, all day; green #22-26, evening; summer pupa #18-20 morning), Midges (#22-32, morning), Black Ants (#16-18, mid day in fast water), Black Beetles (#16-18, mid day), Flying Ants (#18-22, mid day, when windy/humid) and Stone Hopper (#10-12, mid day).

Housatonic River – Conditions have been very good for early fall trout fishing, with dropping temperatures (currently in the upper 50’s°F, mornings) and clear, moderate and quite fishable flows, currently at 450 cfs in Falls Village and 690 cfs in Gaylordsville. With a significant rain event possible, flows may increase to more difficult-to-fish levels this weekend. For updated flow information, anglers can call FirstLight Power toll-free at 1-888-417-4837. Insect hatches/patterns include Blue Wing Olive (#18-26, early morning; spinner fall in evening), Leadwing Coachman (#10-12 evening), Cahills/Summer (#12-14), and Black caddis (#16, early morning & evening). Golden stonefly nymphs hatch at first light and adults egg-lay after dark, trout will ignore everything else when they are on the water. Try Black/Cinnamon Ants (#14-18, mid day in fast water), Sulfurs (#16-18), Black Beetles (#14-18, mid day), Stone Hopper (#8-10, mid day) and Flying Ants (#16-18, mid day, when windy/humid). Try nymphing the pockets, deeper riffles and pool heads.

Lakes & Ponds – Trout fishing is variable, with good reports from East Twin Lake, Wononskopomuc Lake and Crystal Lake (Ellington), fair reports from Beach Pond and Mashapaug Lake, and slow at Hogback Reservoir (West Branch Reservoir). Mixed reports from Highland Lake and West Hill Pond.

LARGEMOUTH BASS fishing is improving, but remains variable, with good reports from Aspinook Pond, Pattagansett Lake (including a 5.3 lb bass), Highland Lake (recent catches included several 5 lb pluslargemouth), Lower Bolton Lake, Mashapaug Lake, Great Hollow Pond, Winchester Lake and East Twin Lake. Fishing is reported as fair at Bashan Lake, Gardner Lake, Powers Lake, Howells Pond, Tyler Lake, Coventry Lake, Rainbow Reservoir, Mansfield Hollow Reservoir and Hatch Pond, and slow at Long Pond, Pachaug Pond, Bantam Lake, Rogers Lake (although catches do include a 5 lb bass) and Beseck Lake.

SMALLMOUTH BASS fishing is variable, with the best reports from Candlewood Lake and the Quinebaug River (upper Aspinook Pond, recent catches included a 3.1 lb smallie), fair reports from Highland Lake, West Branch Reservoir, Mashapaug Lake and Rainbow Reservoir, and slow fishing reported from Bashan Lake, Gardner Lake and Coventry Lake.

NORTHERN PIKE – Limited reports in for pike, areas to try include Bantam Lake, Winchester Lake, Mansfield Hollow Reservoir, Quaddick Reservoir and Pachaug Pond.

Fall WALLEYE action is fair. Catches reported from Saugatuck Reservoir, Gardner Lake, Mashapaug Lake, Beach Pond and Squantz Pond.

Good YELLOW PERCH action reported from Lake Hayward, Stillwater Pond, Winchester Lake, Gardner Lake, Candlewood Lake (11-14” perch), Tyler Lake and Batterson Park Pond.

CONNECTICUT RIVER – STRIPED BASS action remains good in the lower river. NORTHERN PIKE fishing is fair, with some catches reported from the Haddam Meadows/Salmon River Cove area and Wrights Cove. CARP are providing a lot of excitement for those willing to give them a try, with catches up to 15 lbs reported this week. Both LARGEMOUTH BASS and SMALLMOUTH BASS fishing have been slow. BLACK CRAPPIE are providing anglers some nice action in the coves, small shiners are favorite bait.

FISHING ACCESS & BOAT LAUNCH INFORMATION

A three-foot draw down of LAKE HOUSATONIC is currently scheduled for this weekend (9/27-9/28).

FirstLight Power is currently drawing down LAKE LILLINONAH to 3.5 feet below the normal operating range as a flood control measure in response to the potential of the Housatonic River watershed to receive 2-4 inches of rain in the next four days.

DEP has been informed that public access to ALEXANDER LAKE is no longer available.

Boat rental operations at LAKE SALTONSTALL have closed for the year. Since July, the lake has been drawn down over 5 feet to facilitate planned work includes construction of a new concrete spillway, inlets and earth embankment, and the low water levels have made boat launching and retrieval difficult and at times, hazardous. Also due to the draw down, shore fishing access is restricted to the fishing dock.

• The “seawall” area extending from the handicap-accessible fishing pier to the permitted swim area at SQUANTZ POND is currently open to fishing. Anyone with a fishing pole can now access the fence through the several gates. Anglers can also enter the water in that area (except for the one area posted “no trespassing”).

• The LAKE WARAMAUG Town Boat Launch in Washington remains open for use by the general public through the last Sunday in October. The launch will be open 3 days a week (Saturdays, Sundays and Wednesdays) for morning (6 am to 11 am) and late afternoon/evening (4 pm to sunset) periods of operation. Seven parking spaces are available on a first come first served basis at the launch. Additionally, up to 13 trailered boats from the Lake Waramaug State Park campground will be allowed to access the lake from the Town launch. The Town charges a $25 annual fee to launch and all boats will be inspected for invasive plants ($5 per launch inspection fee). All town fees can be paid at the boat launch.

MARINE FISHING REPORT

Water temperatures in Long Island Sound (LIS) are in the upper 60’s °F. Check out the following web sites for more detailed water temperatures and marine boating conditions:

• http://www.mysound.uconn.edu/stationstat.html
• http://marine.rutgers.edu/mrs/sat_data/?nothumbs=1
• http://www.ndbc.noaa.gov/
• http://www.wunderground.com/MAR/AN/330.html

Remember to check the 2008 Connecticut Angler’s Guide for tidal information (page 52) and pages 49-51 for saltwater trophy fish award information.

BUNKER (Atlantic menhaden) remain very abundant in harbors and tidal rivers along the coastline. Bluefish have been chasing menhaden into confined areas often creating fish kills due to the lack of oxygen because of the excess number of fish.

BLUEFISH and STRIPED BASS fishing remains good off the Watch Hill reefs, Napatree Point to Sandy Point (Stonington), Mystic River, Ram Island Reef (Fishers Island Sound), Thames River, the Race, Sluiceway, Pigeon Rip, Plum Gut, Bartlett Reef, Black Point, outer humps off Hatchett Reef, lower Connecticut River, Long Sand Shoal, Cornfield Point, Southwest Reef, Duck Island area, Sixmile Reef, Falkner Island area, the reefs off Branford, New Haven Harbor, Charles Island to Milford Point, Buoys 18 and 20 off Stratford/Bridgeport, Bridgeport Harbor, Stratford Shoal/Middle Ground, the reefs off Norwalk, Cable and Anchor Reef, the Cows off Stamford, and Greenwich Harbor.

SNAPPER BLUES are still around with a JACK CREVALLE or two in the mix.

HICKORY SHAD fishing is good in the Niantic River and the Connecticut River (DEP Marine Headquarters fishing pier)

SCUP (porgy) fishing remains good to excellent on the local reefs. Remember, the last day for scup fishing is September 26 (closed September 27-May 23).

Reports of little tunny (false albacore) have been coming in from the Montauk Point, NY to Watch Hill, RI.

For regulation updates, please check our web site: www.ct.gov/dep/fishing.

Number 4: Yozuri Banana Boat

I have found that the Yozuri banana boat is one of the best lures to use when fish are active and you are looking to cover alot of water in a little amount of time. The following features and characteristics are what set this bait apart from the rest and make it a must have in any bass angler’s tackle box.

• Castability – The banana boat is very aerodynamic and casts like a bullet. Being able to cast this bait a long way makes it a better choice over a conventional popper or topwater walking bait. Make a nice long cast parallel to structure and start working the bait back and forth and the fish won’t be able to resist striking.
• Unique Action – Like most other floating topwater baits, the banana boat is fished with a “walk the dog” presentation, however the action produced while “walking” the banana boat is very unique and that is what will trigger more hard hitting strikes over a conventional topwater bait.
• Fast Retrieve – Since a banana boat is best used when fishing for active fish feeding on the surface, a fast retrieve becomes a plus for this bait since you can cover alot of water very quickly.  This is helpful in finding fish, as well developing a pattern for the rest of the day.
• Treble Hooks – With 6 treble hooks on a small bait like the banana boat, you will notice a good ratio of strikes to hookups versus a bait that only has a single hook or 3 treble hooks.  The design of the bait also allows for the bait to sit upright in the water in between twitches, which increases the chances of hooking up.

Now that we have seen the positives of this bait, I would like to touch on some of the negatives that come along with the banana boat, and most topwater baits in general.

The first negative is the amount of work expended walking this bait. A constant twitch retrieve is required for maximum action on this bait, and a few hours of this can really be a workout… The good news is that you don’t notice how much your arms hurt when you get a bunch of explosive strikes.

The second negative is that many times after a cast or during the retrieve your line will get caught on the front treble hook, or even on both sets of hooks, which costs valuable time in the strike zone.  Although this happens with the banana boat, it tends to happen more so with other similar topwater baits, and mostly with poppers in my experience.

The third negative has to do seasonality. This bait only produces fish when the conditions are right.  The bass must be actively feeding and willing to chase a bait.  This limits how many fish you can catch on a banana boat, and is ultimately why this bait is near the end of our top 5 list.

The baits come in 7 different colors, including: Blue/Silver, Clown, Gold/Black, Trout, Tennessee Shad, Black/Redhead, Red Head. My personal favorite is the Tennessee Shad.

So the next time the fish are chasing bait, try the Yozuri Banana Boat, you won’t be disappointed!

Up Next is the Wiggle Wart Crankbait Coming Soon

Previous Segments:

Number 1: The Senko

Number 2: The Spinnerbait

Number 3: The Spider Grub

CT DEP Freshwater and Marine Fishing Reports for September 18th 2008

INLAND REPORT

LARGEMOUTH BASS fishing remains variable, with good reports from Messerschmidt Pond, Mudge Pond, Park Pond, Hatch Pond, Pattaconk Lake and Amos Lake. Fishing is reported as fair at Lower Bolton Lake, Rainbow Reservoir, Highland Lake (catches include a 5 lb bass), Wyassup Lake, Mashapaug Lake (try in 15-25 feet of water) and Crystal Lake (Ellington), and slow at Bantam Lake, Quonnipaug Lake, Rogers Lake, Long Pond and Pachaug Pond. Mixed reports from Glasgo Pond, Lake Waramaug, Red Cedar Lake, Halls Pond and Uncas pond.

SMALLMOUTH BASS also continues to be variable, with good reports from Candlewood Lake (including several 4 lb smallies), fair reports from Highland Lake and Bashan Lake, mixed reports from Mashapaug Lake, Wyassup Lake, Bashan Lake and Coventry Lake, and slow at Squantz Pond.

NORTHERN PIKE fishing is reported to be fair, with reports from Bantam Lake, Pachaug Pond and Lake Lillinonah, as the temperatures cool, fish are showing up in the shallows.

WALLEYE action is fair, with best reports from Saugatuck Reservoir, some action also reported from Mashapaug Lake, Squantz Pond and Coventry Lake.

KOKANEE are still showing up at West Hill Pond where anglers are being treated with fish coming into their spawning colors.

BLACK CRAPPIE are being caught on small shiners at Saugatuck Reservoir, Silver Lake (Berlin) and Park Pond.

TROUT

Fall Trout Stocking update- This week, DEP stocked a total of 1,600 brown trout (all greater than 12 inches) into the Housatonic River (1,200 into the Housatonic River TMA, and 400 into the Bull’s Bridge TMA). These stockings were intended to enhance the population of large trout on the river, which recent DEP sampling found to be at low levels, possibly due to last year’s extreme conditions. Additionally, the Kent Falls Trout Park and the East Aspetuck River were stocked with a total of 1,000 rainbow trout.

Rivers & streams – Conditions for early fall trout fishing should be good in most areas throughout the state, with cool temperatures and moderate flows. Anglers should be switching over to streamers and terrestrial fly patterns as many hatches typically begin to wind down in September. Good reports last week from the West Branch Farmington, Housatonic and Mill (Fairfield) Rivers.

West Branch flows are clear and quite fishable, currently 220 cfs at Riverton, plus an additional 90 cfs from the Still River. Farther downstream, the East Branch is adding another 100 cfs (due to water level management of Lake McDonough). Water temperatures are in the low 60’s°F. Due to high flows last week, DEP’s annual electrofishing survey was again postponed a week and is now scheduled to occur on September 23rd through 25th. Anglers should expect West Branch flows to drop to 100 cfs or less (50 cfs at Riverton, plus natural flow from the Still River) beginning late September 22nd and lasting through the 25th.

The Trico (Trycorythodes stygiatus, #22-28, 7:00am-10:00am), hatch is winding down but can be found from about 7am to 10:00 am in the Riverton area. Other bugs include Isonychia bicolor (major hatch, #10-12, fast water, afternoon/evening), tiny Rusty Spinners (#18-26), Blue Wing Olives (Drunella sps. & Baetis sps., #22-28, mid-late afternoon), Sulfurs duns (Heptagenia sps., #16-20, below the dam due to lower temperatures, morning; afternoon to early evening for spinners), Cahill/Summer (Stenonema ithaca, #18-22, evening), Caddis (tan #16-18, all day; green #22-26, evening; summer pupa #18-20 morning), Midges (#22-32, morning), Black Ants (#14-18, mid day in fast water), Black Beetles (#14-18, mid day), Flying Ants (#18-22, mid day, when windy/humid) & Stone Hopper (#8-14, mid day). Early morning is good for nymphing.

Housatonic River – Conditions should be very good for early fall trout fishing, temperatures are moderate (low 60’s°F, mornings) and flows are clear, fishable (currently 750 cfs at Falls Village and 1,210 cfs at Gaylordsville) and should continue to drop through the weekend. Hatches/patterns include Fall Sulfurs (#16), Leadwing Coachman (#10-12 evening, September is peak month), Rusty Spinner (#10-24), Light Cahill (#12-14, evening), Blue Wing Olive (#20-24, overcast afternoons; spinner fall in evening) and Black caddis (#14-20, early morning & evening).Try Black Ants (#18-22, mid day in fast water), Black Beetles (#12-20, mid day), Stone Hopper (#8-10, mid day) and Flying Ants (#14-20, mid day, when windy/humid, September is peek month). Don’t forget streamers (morning & evening), patterns to try include White Wooly Buggers, Muddlers, Micky Finn, and Grey or Black Ghosts (#4-10).

Lakes & Ponds – Fair to good early fall fishing reported from East Twin Lake (including a 24” brown), Crystal Lake (Ellington) and Lake Wononscopomuc. Also, some action reported from Candlewood Lake, and slow fishing reported from Highland Lake and Squantz Pond.

CONNECTICUT RIVER – CARP fishing has been excellent with over 70 fine specimens were caught-and-released at a recent event in Hartford. The heaviest fish weighed in at 28.9 lbs. Try your hand catching these locomotives, any fish that takes 20 minutes to land is a “must try”. With hickory shad present, STRIPED BASS action is good in the lower river. Some LARGEMOUTH BASS are being taken in the coves from Wethersfield down to Essex (including some catches in the 2-3 lb range). Anglers are having to work for their catches. SMALLMOUTH BASS fishing reported as fair north of Hartford (Enfield area, and near the mouth of the Farmington River) and south of Hartford in the Middletown area. Few reports in for NORTHERN PIKE, some action from Rocky Hill to Haddam Meadows. Early fall CATFISH (up to 10 lbs) angling is good.

FISHING ACCESS & BOAT LAUNCH INFORMATION

DEP has been informed that public access to ALEXANDER LAKE is no longer available.

Boat rental operations at LAKE SALTONSTALL have closed for the year. Since July, the lake has been drawn down over 5 feet to facilitate planned work includes construction of a new concrete spillway, inlets and earth embankment, and the low water levels have made boat launching and retrieval difficult and at times, hazardous. Also due to the draw down, shore fishing access is restricted to the fishing dock.

A three-foot draw down of LAKE HOUSATONIC is currently scheduled for the weekend of September 27th & 28th.

• The “seawall” area extending from the handicap-accessable fishing pier to the permitted swim area at SQUANTZ POND is now open to fishing. Anyone with a fishing pole can now access the fence through the several gates. Anglers can also enter the water in that area (except for the one area posted “no trespassing”).

• The LAKE WARAMAUG Town Boat Launch in Washington remains open for use by the general public through the last Sunday in October. The launch will be open three days a week (Saturdays, Sundays and Wednesdays) for morning (6 am to 11 am) and late afternoon/evening (4 pm to sunset) periods of operation. Seven parking spaces are available on a first come first served basis at the launch. Additionally, up to thirteen trailered boats from the nearby campground at Lake Waramaug State Park will be allowed to access the lake from the Town launch. The Town charges a $25 annual fee to launch and all boats will be inspected for invasive plants ($5 per launch inspection fee). All town fees can be paid at the boat launch.

MARINE FISHING REPORT

Water temperatures in Long Island Sound (LIS) are in the upper 60’s to low 70’s °F. Check out the following web sites for more detailed water temperatures and marine boating conditions:

• http://www.mysound.uconn.edu/stationstat.html
• http://marine.rutgers.edu/mrs/sat_data/?nothumbs=1
• http://www.ndbc.noaa.gov/
• http://www.wunderground.com/MAR/AN/330.html

Remember to check the 2008 Connecticut Angler’s Guide for tidal information (page 52) and pages 49-51 for saltwater trophy fish award information.

BUNKER (Atlantic menhaden) are pretty much all over the place along the coastline especially in tidal rivers. Bluefish are chasing bunker into areas with no escape route creating fish kills (a natural occurrence). This happens when bunker overcrowd in limited space creating hypoxic conditions (low oxygen levels in the water) and the fish subsequently die.

BLUEFISH and STRIPED BASS fishing remains good at the usual spots: The reefs off Watch Hill, Napatree Point to Sandy Point (Stonington), Mystic River, Ram Island Reef (Fishers Island Sound), Thames River, the Race, Sluiceway, Pigeon Rip, Plum Gut, Bartlett Reef, Black Point, outer humps off Hatchett Reef, lower Connecticut River, Long Sand Shoal, Cornfield Point, Southwest Reef, Duck Island area, Sixmile Reef, Falkner Island area, the reefs off Branford, New Haven Harbor, Charles Island to Milford Point, Buoys 18 and 20 off Stratford/Bridgeport, Bridgeport Harbor, Stratford Shoal/Middle Ground, the reefs off Norwalk, Cable and Anchor Reef, the Cows off Stamford, and Greenwich Harbor.

HICKORY SHAD fishing is good in the Niantic River and the Connecticut River (DEP Marine Headquarters fishing pier).

SCUP (porgy) fishing remains good to excellent with jumbos over 17 inches in length being reported!

Reports of ATLANTIC BONITO and LITTLE TUNNY (false albacore) have been slim.

For regulation updates, please check our web site: www.ct.gov/dep/fishing.

]]> http://ifishct.com/blog/2008/09/18/ct-dep-fishing-report-freshwater-and-marine-september-18th-2008/feed/ 0 http://ifishct.com/blog/2008/09/11/ct-dep-fishing-report-freshwater-and-marine-september-11th-2008/ http://ifishct.com/blog/2008/09/11/ct-dep-fishing-report-freshwater-and-marine-september-11th-2008/#comments Thu, 11 Sep 2008 23:43:52 +0000 admin http://ifishct.com/blog/?p=210

CT DEP Freshwater and Marine Fishing Reports for September 11th 2008

INLAND REPORT

LARGEMOUTH BASS fishing is variable, with good reports from Highland Lake (catches include 5.7 and 4.3 lb largemouth), Bantam Lake (5.7 lb largemouth among the catches), Quaddick Reservoir, Beseck Lake (catches include 6.25 and 4.5 lb bass), Glasgo Pond, Winchester Lake. Park Pond (including a 5.5 lb bass), Mamanasco Lake, Twin Brooks Park Pond and Mudge Pond, and fair reports from Pattagansett Lake (4.8 lb bass among the catches), Gardner Lake, Powers Lake (including a 5.4 lb bass), Bantam Lake, Rogers Lake, Candlewood Lake, East Twin Lake, Hatch Pond and Halls Pond. Slow fishing reported from Lake Zoar and Lake Lillinonah, and mixed reports for Moodus Reservoir, Silver Lake (Berlin/Meriden) and Quonnipaug Lake.

SMALLMOUTH BASS fishing remains variable, with reports from Candlewood Lake (good), Gardner Lake (fair), Coventry Lake (fair), Squantz Pond (slow), Lake Zoar (slow) and Highland Lake (mixed reports). Good reports for river smallies from the Housatonic River and the Willimantic River prior to the weekend storm.

NORTHERN PIKE – Good reports from Lake Winchester, Bantam Lake, Pachaug Pond and Lake Lillinonah.

KOKANEE – Some catches reported from West Hill Pond.

Some WALLEYE catches reported from Gardner Lake Coventry Lake, Beach Pond and Squantz Pond.

CHANNEL CATFISH – Catches reported from Keney Park Pond, Bunnell’s Pond (Beardsley Park) and Lake Wintergreen.

Good YELLOW PERCH action reported from Candlewood Lake (jumbos, 11-14”). Additional places to try include Coventry Lake, Wyassup Lake, Tyler Lake, Gardner Lake, Park Pond, Glasgo Pond and Halls Pond.

TROUT

Fall trout Stocking update- This week, DEP stocked the Pomperaug River and the Trout Management Areas on the Mianus River, Mill River (Fairfield), Saugatuck River, and Naugatuck River with a total of 2,000 brown trout. These fish are in the 11-13 inch range.

Rivers & streams – The heavy rains from the remnants of Hanna this past weekend made most waters difficult to impossible to fish. With flows continuing to drop nicely in many rivers and streams, and moderate temperatures forecast, conditions should be good for fishing in many areas this weekend. Also, the smaller tributaries will typically return to fishable flows quicker than larger rivers. With these conditions, streamers or nymphing are good options. Anglers should also keep terrestrial fly patterns in mind.

Farmington River – The river has cleared and flows have dropped back to comfortable (and very fishable) levels, currently 140 cfs at Riverton, plus an additional 230 cfs from the Still River. Due to last weekend’s rain, DEP’s annual electrofishing survey was postponed a week and is now scheduled to occur on September 16th through 18th. Anglers should expect West Branch flows to drop to 100 cfs or less beginning late September 15th and lasting through the 18th. Again, this schedule is dependent on flow/precipitation conditions.

The Trico (Trycorythodes stygiatus, #22-32, early morning) hatch is winding down but can be found between 7:00am – 10:00am in the upper areas of the river. Other hatches patterns include Isonychia bicolor (major hatch, #12-14, fast water, evening), Blue Wing Olives (Drunella sps. & Baetis sps.;#20-28, mid-late afternoon), Cahills/Summer (Stenonema ithaca, #14-16, evenings), Sulfurs duns (Heptagenia sps., #16-20, below the dam due to low temperatures, morning; afternoon to early evening for spinners), Caddis (tan #18-22, all day; green #22-26, evening; summer pupa #18-20 morning), Midges (#22-32, morning), Grifith’s Gnats (20-28), Black Ants (#14-20, mid day in fast water), Black Beetles (#14-18, mid day), Flying Ants (#18-22, mid day, when windy/humid, especially after rain), Stone Hopper (#8-14, mid day) and Golden Drake (Anthopotamus distinctus, #10-14, late evening)

Housatonic River – Flows are still high, but continue to clear and drop to more fishable levels, currently 1,530 cfs at Falls Village and 2,490 cfs at Gaylordsville. For updated flow information, anglers can call FirstLight Power at 1-888-417-4837. Morning water temperatures are now in the lower 60’s°F. Current hatches/patterns include Flying Ants (#16-18, mid-day, when windy/humid, September is peek month), Fall Sulfurs (#16), Blue Wing Olive (#18-26, early morning; spinner fall in evening), Leadwing Coachman (#10-12 evening, September is peek month), Sulfurs duns (#16-20, below the dam due to low temperatures, morning; afternoon to early evening for spinners), Cahill (#12-14, evening), and Black caddis (#16-18, early morning & evening). Golden stonefly nymphs hatch at first light and adults egg-lay after dark. Try Black Ants (#16-18, mid day in fast water), Black Beetles (#14-18, mid day), Stone Hopper (#8-10, mid day). Don’t forget streamers (morning & evening). Patterns to try include White, Wooly Buggers, Muddlers, Micky Finn, Grey or Black Ghosts (#4-10).

Lakes & Ponds – Late summer trout anglers are finding fair fishing, with reports from East Twin Lake (25” brown, target 40’), Crystal Lake (Ellington, target 26-28’), Highland Lake, Beach pond, Mt. Tom Pond and West Hill Pond. Feeding fish are still deep as the lakes have not cooled down appreciably.

CONNECTICUT RIVER – With the remnants of Hanna now long-gone, river levels continue to drop to more comfortable levels. STRIPED BASS action is good in the lower river, and should improve more as they chase hickory shad that are now in the river. CATFISH are very active and are providing great action on cut bait (chunking) near structure along deeper holes. Some good SMALLMOUTH BASS action reported in the mainstem from Middletown to Haddam Meadows. LARGEMOUTH BASS fishing has been picking up with a number catches in the 3-4 lb range reported. Coves (good reports from Wethersfield, Keeney and Salmon River coves) are best. NORTHERN PIKE fishing has been fair.

FISHING ACCESS & BOAT LAUNCH INFORMATION

Boat rental operations at LAKE SALTONSTALL have closed for the year. Since July, the lake has been drawn down over 5 feet to facilitate planned work includes construction of a new concrete spillway, inlets and earth embankment, and the low water levels have made boat launching and retrieval difficult and at times, hazardous. Also due to the draw down, shore fishing access is restricted to the fishing dock.

A three-foot draw down of LAKE HOUSATONIC is currently scheduled for the weekend of September 27th & 28th.

• The “seawall” area extending from the handicap-accessable fishing pier to the permitted swim area at SQUANTZ POND is now open to fishing. Anyone with a fishing pole can now access the fence through the several gates. Anglers can also enter the water in that area (except for the one area posted “no trespassing”).

• The LAKE WARAMAUG Town Boat Launch in Washington remains open for use by the general public through the last Sunday in October. The launch will be open three days a week (Saturdays, Sundays and Wednesdays) for morning (6 am to 11 am) and late afternoon/evening (4 pm to sunset) periods of operation. Seven parking spaces are available on a first come first served basis at the launch. Additionally, up to thirteen trailered boats from the nearby campground at Lake Waramaug State Park will be allowed to access the lake from the Town launch. The Town charges a $25 annual fee to launch and all boats will be inspected for invasive plants ($5 per launch inspection fee). All town fees can be paid at the boat launch.

MARINE FISHING REPORT

Water temperatures in Long Island Sound (LIS) are in the low 70’s °F. Check out the following web sites for more detailed water temperatures and marine boating conditions:

• http://www.mysound.uconn.edu/stationstat.html
• http://marine.rutgers.edu/mrs/sat_data/?nothumbs=1
• http://www.ndbc.noaa.gov/
• http://www.wunderground.com/MAR/AN/330.html

Remember to check the 2008 Connecticut Angler’s Guide for tidal information (page 52) and pages 49-51 for saltwater trophy fish award information.

There are plenty of BUNKER (Atlantic menhaden) in most of the tidal rivers, harbors and coves along the coast making an easy feast for BLUEFISH and STRIPED BASS so don’t over look the inshore areas. Shore-based anglers should take advantage during the fall when fishing is at its best. Some of the coastal state parks offer great shore fishing access. Other spots include the normal locations: the reefs from Watch Hill to Fishers Island, Napatree Point to Sandy Point (Stonington), Mystic River, Ram Island Reef (Fishers Island Sound), Thames River, the Race, Sluiceway, Pigeon Rip, Plum Gut, Bartlett Reef, Black Point, outer humps off Hatchett Reef, lower Connecticut River, Long Sand Shoal, Cornfield Point, Southwest Reef, Duck Island area, Sixmile Reef, Falkner Island area, the reefs off Branford, New Haven Harbor, Charles Island to Milford Point, Buoys 18 and 20 off Stratford/Bridgeport, Bridgeport Harbor, Stratford Shoal/Middle Ground, the reefs off Norwalk, Cable and Anchor Reef, the Cows off Stamford, and Greenwich Harbor. SNAPPER fishing is dwindling down (about fair).

HICKORY SHAD fishing has picked in the Niantic River especially in the early morning and evening times. Other spots include the Mystic River and the Connecticut River (DEP Marine Headquarters fishing pier).

SCUP (porgy) fishing remains good to excellent with fish up to 17 inches in length being reported. Any of the major rocky reefs will do especially during an hour before and after slack tide.

ATLANTIC BONITO and LITTLE TUNNY (false albacore) have been racing around the Watch Hill area, Wilderness Point, Bluff Point, Pine Island, Dumpling Islands, the Race to Little Gull Island and the Sluiceway.

Special Note: Just a reminder, the summer flounder (fluke) and tautog (blackfish) recreational fishing seasons are currently closed.

For regulation updates, please check our web site: www.ct.gov/dep/fishing.

]]> http://ifishct.com/blog/2008/09/11/ct-dep-fishing-report-freshwater-and-marine-september-11th-2008/feed/ 0 http://ifishct.com/blog/2008/09/06/ct-dep-fishing-report-freshwater-and-marine-september-4th-2008/ http://ifishct.com/blog/2008/09/06/ct-dep-fishing-report-freshwater-and-marine-september-4th-2008/#comments Sat, 06 Sep 2008 16:19:27 +0000 admin http://ifishct.com/blog/?p=192

CT DEP Freshwater and Marine Fishing Reports for September 4th 2008

INLAND REPORT

LARGEMOUTH BASS fishing remains generally fair to good with reports from Lake Lillinonah, Winchester Lake, Highland Lake, Lake Zoar, Glasgo Pond, Ball Pond, Candlewood Lake (only fair), Quonnipaug Lake, Rainbow Reservoir, Mudge Pond, Hatch Pond, Twin Brooks Park Pond, Great Hollow Pond, Babcock Pond, Lake Mcdonough, Moodus Reservoir, Crystal Lake, Long Pond, Silver Lake, Halls Pond, Red Cedar Lake, Gorton Pond, Park Pond, Wononscopomuc Lake and Rogers Lake. Slow fishing reported from Gardner Lake, Beach Pond and East Twin Lake.

SMALLMOUTH BASS action is variable with good reports from Candlewood Lake and Lake Lillinonah, fair reports from Lake McDonough, Coventry Lake, Colebrook Reservoir, Highland Lake and Squantz Pond, and slow fishing reported from Gardner Lake and Beach Pond. Anglers are still finding good river smallie action on the Housatonic River (try warm, sunny afternoons) and DEP’s sampling earlier this week found plenty of smallmouth waiting for anglers.

NORTHERN PIKE catches reported from Lake Winchester (36” pike), Bantam Lake, Hopeville Pond and Pachaug Pond.

Some WALLEYE are being reported from Lake Saltonstall, Saugatuck Reservoir, Gardner Lake, Mashapaug Lake and Coventry Lake.

TROUT

Fall trout Stocking update- DEP is currently gearing up for its annual fall trout stockings. This year, these stockings will again start in early September and be conducted over an extended period, ending in late October. This extended season facilitates multiple stockings of a number of popular areas (especially the Trout Parks), and the earlier start takes advantage of good late summer and early fall weather. This week, to start the season, DEP stocked the Black Rock, Wharton Brook, and Wolfe Park (Great Hollow Pond) Trout Parks, the lower Farmington River Trout Management Area (TMA) and the Mill River in Hamden (including the TMA). A total of 3,300 brown trout were released this week, and these fish were in the 11-13 inch range.

Rivers & streams – Conditions for late summer trout fishing have been good, with adequate flows and moderate temperatures. Reports from both the West Branch Farmington and Housatonic Rivers have been very good. During the late summer, trout anglers should definitely keep terrestrial fly patterns in mind.

Farmington River – Conditions are good, fishing has been a bit challenging but good, and there are still plenty of the 2,400 trout stocked into the West Branch last week awaiting anglers. West Branch water temperatures are in the mid 60’s °F. West Branch flows currently are clear and fishable, about 330 cfs at Riverton plus an additional 60 cfs from the Still River. With heavy rains from the remnants of Hanna a possibility, anglers are reminded that flows may increase during this weekend. DEP currently is planning to conduct its annual electrofishing survey of the river from September 9th through 11th. Anglers should expect West Branch flows to drop to 100 cfs or less beginning late September 8th and lasting through the 11th. This schedule may be subject to change should heavy rainfall occur in the watershed.

The Trico (Trycorythodes stygiatus, #22-32, early morning) hatch on the Farmington River is slowing. Other hatches/patterns include Isonychia bicolor (major hatch, #10-12, fast water, evening), Blue Wing Olives (Drunella sps. & Baetis sps.;#22-28, mid-late afternoon), Sulfurs duns (Heptagenia sps., #16-20, below the dam due to low temperatures, morning; afternoon to early evening for spinners), Caddis (tan #18-22, all day; green #22-26, evening; summer pupa #18-20 morning), Midges (#20-26, morning), Black Ants (#16-18, mid day in fast water), Black Beetles (#16-18, mid day), Flying Ants (#18-22, mid day, when

windy/humid, especially after rain), Stone Hopper (#8-12, mid day) and Golden Drake (Anthopotamus distinctus, #10-14, late evening) are successful patterns.

Housatonic River – Conditions are great for early September trout fishing, temperatures are moderate (mid to upper 60’s°F, mornings) and flows are clear and near-perfect, currently 300 cfs at Falls Village and 390 cfs at Gaylordsville. With a possibility of heavy rain in the forecast for Saturday (Tropical Storm Hanna remnants), flows may however increase significantly this weekend, anglers should call FirstLight Power at 1-888-417-4837 for updated flow information. Insect hatches/patterns include flying ants (#18-22, mid-day, when windy/humid and after rains, September is peak month), Fall Sulfurs (#16-18), White Wulff (#10-14), Blue Wing Olive (#22-26, early morning; spinner fall in evening), Leadwing Coachman (#10-12 evening, September is peek month), Cahill (#12-14, evening), and Black caddis (#16-18, early morning & evening). Also try Black Ants (#18-22, mid day in fast water), Black Beetles (#14-18, mid day), Stone Hopper (#8-10, mid day) and don’t forget streamers (morning & evening). Patterns to try includeWhite, Wooly Buggers, Muddlers, Micky Finn, Grey or Black Ghosts (#4-10).

Lakes & Ponds – Late summer trout fishing remains fair, with reports from Crystal Lake (Ellington), Quonnipaug Lake, East Twin Lake, West Hill Pond, Beach Pond and Highland Lake.

CONNECTICUT RIVER – CATFISH are providing some good late summer action on cut bait (try brush piles and other structure along deep holes). NORTHERN PIKE fishing has been improving, coves (especially Salmon River) and the mainstem along the Haddam Meadows producing the best reports. Also some pike caught in the mainstem from Wethersfield to Harbor Park. CARP up to 22.25 lbs (in the coves) are keeping anglers busy (caught on corn & dough balls). LARGEMOUTH BASS action is fair, best are the coves from Wethersfield to Lyme (Hamburg Cove), and also along mainstem weedlines below Middletown. SMALLMOUTH BASS fishing is fair, with catches reported from the Enfield Dam down the Middletown. STRIPED BASS action is still to be found in the lower river.

FISHING ACCESS & BOAT LAUNCH INFORMATION

FirstLight Power plans to draw down LAKE LILLINONAH to 3.5 feet below the normal operating range as a flood control measure, beginning Friday afternoon/evening (9/5), in response to the potential of the Housatonic River watershed to receive up to 6 inches of rain due to the remnants of Tropical Storm Hanna. It is likely that pool elevations will be returned to normal operating levels by early next week, depending on actual precipitation amounts.

The “seawall” area extending from the handicap-accessable fishing pier to the permitted swim area at SQUANTZ POND is now open to fishing. Anyone with a fishing pole can now access the fence through the several gates. Anglers can also enter the water in that area (except for the one area posted “no trespassing”).

A canoe/kayaking and swimming relay race is currently scheduled at HIGHLAND LAKE on this Saturday, September 6th, from 9 am to 1 pm. This event will occur in the vicinity of the state boat launch. Anglers and other boaters accessing the lake from the state launch should exercise additional caution.

The LAKE WARAMAUG Town Boat Launch in Washington remains open for use by the general public through the last Sunday in October. The launch will be open three days a week (Saturdays, Sundays and Wednesdays) for morning (6 am to 11 am) and late afternoon/evening (4 pm to sunset) periods of operation. Seven parking spaces are available on a first come first served basis at the launch. Additionally, up to thirteen trailered boats from the nearby campground at Lake Waramaug State Park will be allowed to access the lake from the Town launch. The Town charges a $25 annual fee to launch and all boats will be inspected for invasive plants ($5 per launch inspection fee). All town fees can be paid at the boat launch.

MARINE FISHING REPORT

Water temperatures in Long Island Sound (LIS) are in the low to mid 70’s °F. Check out the following web sites for more detailed water temperatures and marine boating conditions:

• http://www.mysound.uconn.edu/stationstat.html
• http://marine.rutgers.edu/mrs/sat_data/?nothumbs=1
• http://www.ndbc.noaa.gov/
• http://www.wunderground.com/MAR/AN/330.html

Remember to check the 2008 Connecticut Angler’s Guide for tidal information (page 52) and pages 49-51 for saltwater trophy fish award information.

STRIPED BASS fishing remains good at the usual spots: between Watch Hill and Fishers Island, Napatree Point to Sandy Point (Stonington), Ram Island Reef (Fishers Island Sound), the Race, Sluiceway, Plum Gut, Bartlett Reef, Black Point, outer humps off Hatchett Reef, lower Connecticut River, Long Sand Shoal, Cornfield Point, Southwest Reef, Sixmile Reef, Falkner Island area, the reefs off Branford, Stratford Shoal/Middle Ground, the reefs off Norwalk, the Cows off Stamford, and Greenwich Harbor.

BLUEFISH fishing is good to excellent throughout LIS. Many of the harbors and tidal rivers are loaded with PEANUT and ADULT BUNKER (Atlantic menhaden) so that means bluefish and stripers aren’t too far away. Bluefish can be found basically anywhere in LIS during this time of year. Popular chopper spots include the Race, Thames River, Pigeon Rip, Plum Gut, lower Connecticut River, Long Sand Shoal, Southwest Reef, Sixmile Reef, Falkner Island area, the reefs off Branford, New Haven Harbor (Sandy Point), Charles Island area to Milford Point, Buoys 18 and 20 off Stratford/Bridgeport, Stratford Shoal/Middle Ground area, around the Norwalk Islands, and Cable and Anchor Reef.

SNAPPER fishing is about peak.

HICKORY SHAD fishing is fair but should pick up. Shad spots include the Mystic River, Niantic River and the Connecticut River.

SCUP (porgy) fishing remains good to excellent on the local rocky reefs and the time to go is now!

BONITO are off the Watch Hill area, Bluff Point, Pine Island, Dumplings, and Little Gull Island. Also this is the time of year when some our southern visitors arrive in LIS such as a cobia was caught by an angler fishing off East Haven!

Special Note: Just a reminder, the summer flounder (fluke) and tautog (blackfish) recreational fishing seasons are currently closed.

For regulation updates, please check our web site: www.ct.gov/dep/fishing.

On my third cast with the swimming senko, I landed a 2.5lb largemouth off of a marker buoy. I was fishing it just like I would a regular senko for the most part, but would give it some swimming action around structure. This swimming action seemed to be the key since senko fishing had been slow the last few times I went out. Over the 45 minutes of fishing I landed 7 keepers (largest was about 3lbs), and I missed 3-4 good strikes.

If your senko fishing has slowed down this time of year I would recommend trying the swimming senko by yamamoto baits or kinami. I was using the 4 inch watermelon with red flake for those who were wondering, and the water was moderately stained last night.

I also threw a spinnerbait for a while with no success, so I guess it is back to slow and low for a while until the fall bite turns on…

CT DEP Freshwater and Marine Fishing Reports for August 28th 2008

INLAND REPORT

LARGEMOUTH BASS fishing has generally been fair to good with reports from Glasgo Pond, Mashapaug Lake, Aspinook Pond, Bantam Lake (including a 4.5 lb bass), Candlewood Lake, Quaddick Reservoir, Rainbow Reservoir, Lake Lillinonah, Pataconk Lake (22 inch bass), Babcock Pond, Beach Pond, West Hill Pond, Horse Pond, Quonnipaug Lake, Ball Pond and Cedar Lake (5 lb bass). Fishing was reported as slow at Gardner Lake (recent catches do include a 4.4 lb largemouth), East Twin Lake and Pachaug Pond.

SMALLMOUTH BASS fishing is generally slow to fair in lakes and ponds, with best reports from Candlewood Lake (plenty, but fish deep to find them), Lake Lillinonah (catches include a 4 lb smallie), Rainbow Reservoir, Mashapaug Lake, Bashan Lake and Coventry Lake, and slow fishing reported at Beach Pond (catches include a 4.5 lb smallie), Colebrook Reservoir and Gardner Lake. River smallie action remains good, especially on warm afternoons, in the Housatonic River (one one trip, three anglers caught 246 bass in the Cornwall/Kent stretch) and fair in the Tariffville section of the Farmington River.

NORTHERN PIKE fishing is fair at best, with some catches reported from Lake Lillinonah, Bantam Lake (slow), Mansfield Hollow Reservoir, Winchester Lake, Hopeville Pond and the upper Housatonic River

WALLEYE catches reported from Lake Saltonstall, Mashapaug Lake, Gardner Lake, Coventry Lake, Saugatuck Reservoir and Squantz Pond.

TROUT

Rivers & streams – With good flows and moderate temperatures, conditions for trout fishing should be great for the Labor Day weekend. As we move into late summer, it’s time for trout anglers to include terrestrial fly patterns in their arsenal. Good reports last week from the West Branch Farmington, Naugatuck and Housatonic Rivers.

Farmington River – Anglers can look forward to even more fish in the river as DEP HAS STOCKED 2,400 TROUT for the Holiday weekend. These fish are most 14-16 inch brown trout, with a few 12-14 inch rainbow trout mixed in. These fish were released into the West Branch from just above the TMA to the Goodwin (Hogback) Dam.

West Branch flows are currently clear and at fishable levels (360 cfs at Riverton, plus an additional 30 cfs from the Still River). West Branch TMA water temperatures are in the mid 60’s °F. Hatches/patterns include the Trico (Trycorythodes stygiatus, #22-32, morning) followed by the White Fly (Ephoron leukon, #12-14, dawn & dusk). The remaining bugs consist of Ephemerella needhami (#20-26, early morning to early afternoon in Riverton), Leadwing Coachman (Isonychia bicolor, #10-12, fast water, afternoon/evening), Blue Wing Olives (Drunella sps. & Baetis sps.;#22-28, mid-late afternoon), Sulfurs duns (Heptagenia sps., #16-20, below the dam due to low temperatures, morning; afternoon to early evening for spinners), Caddis (tan #14-18, all day; green #22-26, evening; summer pupa #18-20 morning), Midges (#22-32, morning), Cahills/Summer (Stenonema ithaca, #14-16, evenings), Black Ants (#14-20, mid day in fast water), Black Beetles (#16-18, mid day), Flying Ants (#18-22, mid day, when windy/humid, day after rains), Stone Hopper (#8-12, mid day) and Golden Drake (Anthopotamus distinctus, #10-14, late evening).

Advance notice: DEP currently is planning to conduct its annual electrofishing survey of the river from September 9th through 11th. Anglers should expect West Branch flows to drop to 100 cfs or less beginning late September 8th and lasting through at least the 11th.

Housatonic River – Conditions for trout fishing should be great for the Labor Day weekend! Flows are clear and very fishable, currently 365 cfs at Falls Village and 445 cfs at Gaylordsville, and temperatures remain relatively mild (morning water temperatures are currently in the low to mid 60’s °F. Successful patterns include Leadwing Coachman (#10-12, main evening hatch), White Wulff (#10-12), Sulfurs (#16 dusk/dark), Light Cahill (#12-14, evening), and Black caddis (#16-18, early morning & evening). Golden stonefly nymphs hatch at first light and adults egg-lay after dark. Try Black/Cinnamon Ants (#18-22, mid day in fast water), Black Beetles (#14-18, mid day), Stone Hopper (#8-10, mid day) and Flying Ants (#18-22, mid day, when windy/humid, day after rains). Don’t forget streamers (morning & evening). Patterns to try include White Wooly Buggers, Muddlers, Micky Finn, Grey or Black Ghosts (#4-10).

Lakes & Ponds – Late summer trout fishing is generally fair, with best reports from East Twin Lake, Wonoscopomuc Lake and Crystal Lake, and slower fishing reported from West Hill Pond, Beach Pond and Highland Lake.

CONNECTICUT RIVER – CATFISH (6-10 lb range) angling remains good from Hartford to Middletown, cut bait (chunking) near brush piles and other structure near deep holes. Some LARGEMOUTH BASS are being taken in the coves in the Hartford-Middletown area and in the lower river along weed lines. Recent catches include a number of 3-4 lb bass. STRIPED BASS action is fair to good(mostly schoolies) in the lower river on tube & worm as well as on cut bait. NORTHERN PIKE action is variable.

FISHING ACCESS & BOAT LAUNCH INFORMATION

The state boat launch on the THAMES RIVER in New London has reopened to the public following renovations.

The newly renovated LAKE WARAMAUG Town Boat Launch in Washington is open for use by the general public. Seven parking spaces are available on a first come first served basis at the new launch. Additionally, up to thirteen trailered boats from the nearby campground at Lake Waramaug State Park will be allowed to access the lake from the Town launch (the park will have 13 “eligibility certificates” available to issue to campers, issued on a first-come –first served basis).

The Town charges a $25 annual fee to launch (same fee for resident and nonresidents). All boats will be inspected for invasive plants and subjected to a $5 per launch inspection fee. The launch and inspection fees can be paid at the boat launch.

The hours of operation through Labor Day are:

Friday, Saturday, Sunday & Monday – 6 AM to Sunset

Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday – 10 AM to 5 PM

From Labor Day to the last Sunday in October, the launch will be open three days a week (Saturdays, Sundays and Wednesdays) for morning (6 am to 11 am) and late afternoon/evening (4 pm to sunset) periods of operation.

Due to inappropriate off-site parking by some users of the state boat launch at COVENTRY LAKE, once capacity is reached at this launch, further use of the launch will not be allowed until a parking space or spaces become available.

Anglers are reminded that the entire “seawall” area extending from the handicap-accessable fishing pier to the permitted swim area at SQUANTZ POND is currently closed to all public access.

MARINE FISHING REPORT

Water temperatures in Long Island Sound (LIS) range from the upper 60’s to low 70’s °F. Check out the following web sites for more detailed water temperatures and marine boating conditions:

• http://www.mysound.uconn.edu/stationstat.html
• http://marine.rutgers.edu/mrs/sat_data/?nothumbs=1
• http://www.ndbc.noaa.gov/
• http://www.wunderground.com/MAR/AN/330.html

Remember to check the 2008 Connecticut Angler’s Guide for tidal information (page 52) and pages 49-51 for saltwater trophy fish award information.

STRIPED BASS fishing is good to excellent on the local reefs especially during the night. Again, live bait is the ticket for scoring on trophy sized linesiders. Also, schoolie fishing is pretty good in the tidal rivers. Striped bass spots include the rocky reefs between Watch Hill and eastern Fishers Island, Napatree Point to Sandy Point (Stonington), Ram Island Reef (Fishers Island Sound), the Race, Sluiceway, Plum Gut, Bartlett Reef, Black Point, outer humps off Hatchett Reef, Long Sand Shoal, Cornfield Point, Southwest Reef, Sixmile Reef, Falkner Island area, Stratford Shoal/Middle Ground, the reefs off Norwalk, the Cows off Stamford, and Greenwich Harbor.

BLUEFISH fishing is good to excellent throughout LIS. The Race is the usual hot spot especially in the early morning. Other chopper spots include Wilderness Point (south shore of Fishers Island), Thames River, Pigeon Rip, Plum Gut, Long Sand Shoal, Southwest Reef, Sixmile Reef, Falkner Island area, the reefs off Branford, New Haven Harbor (Sandy Point), Charles Island area, Buoys 18 and 20 off Stratford/Bridgeport, Stratford Shoal/Middle Ground area, around the Norwalk Islands, Cable and Anchor Reef. Snapper fishing is fair to good.

HICKORY SHAD fishing is fair to good in the Niantic River and the Connecticut River.

SCUP (porgy) fishing remains good to excellent on the local rocky reefs.

BONITO have been spotted off the Watch Hill area, Bluff Point, Pine Island and Little Gull Island.

The SUMMER FLOUNDER (fluke) fishing season’s last day is September 1 (closed September 2-May 23) so time is dwindling down!

The TAUTOG (blackfish) season is also closed from September 1- September 30.

For regulation updates, please check our web site: www.ct.gov/dep/fishing.