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Connecticut · Fishing
Canterbury, Connecticut sits in the quiet northeastern corner of the state, and its fishing scene reflects that — four ponds, no crowds, and the kind of stillwater fishing that rewards patience over gear.
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Canterbury, Connecticut sits in the quiet northeastern corner of the state, and its fishing scene reflects that — four ponds, no crowds, and the kind of stillwater fishing that rewards patience over gear. Potter Pond, Lisbon Pond, Bennets Pond, and Wright Pond are all lake fishing spots, meaning you're working calm, warm-water environments rather than chasing trout in moving water. Expect species typical of Connecticut's inland ponds: largemouth bass, yellow perch, chain pickerel, and bluegill are common throughout this part of Windham County, though conditions vary pond to pond. Access tends to be low-key — small parking areas, cartop boat launches, or bank fishing from the shore — so leave the big bass boat at home and think kayak, canoe, or waders. Connecticut's inland fishing regulations apply across all four waters, and you'll need a valid Connecticut fishing license regardless of which pond you're heading to. The area is uncrowded enough that weekday mornings in particular can feel like you have the water to yourself, which is increasingly rare in southern New England.
Yes. A valid Connecticut inland fishing license is required at all four ponds. Licenses are available through the Connecticut DEEP website or at local license agents. Connecticut residents and non-residents pay different rates, and there are reduced-fee options for seniors and anglers under 16.
These are warm-water pond fisheries, so largemouth bass, chain pickerel, yellow perch, and bluegill are your most likely targets. None of the four ponds appear on Connecticut's list of gold medal or wild trout waters, so don't plan this trip around trout.
Bennets Pond
~2 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CT.
Potter Pond
~2 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CT.
Lisbon Pond
~5 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CT.
Shoemaker Pond
~6 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CT.
Shoemaker Pond
~6 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CT.
Wright Pond
~7 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CT.
Packers Pond
~7 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CT.
Packers Pond
~8 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CT.
Lower Dam
~10 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CT.
Kendall Pond
~10 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CT.
Frog Pond
~11 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CT.
Kendall Pond
~11 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CT.
Early morning and the hour or two before sunset are consistently the most productive windows for bass and pickerel, when water temperatures are cooler and fish move into shallower areas to feed. Midday in summer tends to push fish deeper and slows action considerably.
These are small Connecticut ponds, and access infrastructure is minimal — think cartop launches rather than full boat ramps. A kayak, canoe, or small electric-motor craft is the practical choice. Check Connecticut DEEP's individual pond access pages before you go, as motor restrictions can vary by water body.
Late spring through early summer is prime time, when water temperatures warm up and bass are actively feeding around the spawn. Fall is a strong second choice — pickerel in particular get aggressive as water cools in September and October. Ice fishing is possible in a hard winter, but check current DEEP guidance on ice conditions and any site-specific rules before heading out.
