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Connecticut · Fishing
Colchester sits in the middle of Connecticut's quiet lake country, and its fishing scene reflects that — four ponds within town limits that offer genuine stillwater fishing without the crowds you'd find closer to the shoreline.
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Colchester sits in the middle of Connecticut's quiet lake country, and its fishing scene reflects that — four ponds within town limits that offer genuine stillwater fishing without the crowds you'd find closer to the shoreline. McDonald Pond, Cotten Pond, Harvey Pond, and Sherman Pond are all lake fishing destinations, meaning you're working the banks or a small boat for warmwater species in a setting that stays manageable even on summer weekends. These are not trophy destinations with stocked trophy trout programs — they're honest Connecticut ponds where a patient angler with basic gear can put together a solid morning. Largemouth bass, panfish like bluegill and yellow perch, and chain pickerel are the species you'll realistically encounter in this type of central Connecticut pond habitat. Access points vary by pond, so it's worth checking the Connecticut DEEP Fishing Guide before you go to confirm public access, any size or bag limits in effect, and whether a boat or kayak launch is available. A Connecticut fishing license is required for anyone 16 and older. The fishing here rewards early mornings in late spring through early fall, when surface temperatures are warm enough to push fish into shallower structure near the edges.
Yes. Connecticut requires a valid state fishing license for anyone 16 years of age or older. You can purchase one online through the Connecticut DEEP website or at most local bait and tackle shops. There is no separate town permit required for the public ponds listed here, but confirm current access status with DEEP before your trip.
These are typical central Connecticut warmwater ponds, so your best bets are largemouth bass, chain pickerel, bluegill, and yellow perch. None of the ponds in Colchester are designated gold medal or wild trout waters, so don't plan a trip around trout fishing unless DEEP's current stocking reports show recent activity at a specific pond.
McDonald Pond
~1 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CT.
Cotten Pond
~1 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CT.
Harvey Pond
~3 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CT.
Sherman Pond
~3 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CT.
Savin Lake
~6 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CT.
Gardner Lake
~6 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CT.
Savin Lake
~6 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CT.
Zemko Pond
~6 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CT.
Gardner Lake
~6 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CT.
Fish & Game Dam No 1
~8 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CT.
Cone Pond
~10 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CT.
Oxoboxo Lake
~11 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CT.
A medium-light spinning rod in the 6- to 7-foot range handles most situations across these ponds. For bass and pickerel, soft plastic rigs, small spinnerbaits, and weedless frogs near lily pad edges are reliable. For panfish, a simple bobber and worm setup or small jigs under a float will cover you. Bring a net and a pair of needle-nose pliers — pickerel in particular have sharp teeth.
Early morning from first light through about 9 a.m. is consistently the most productive window, especially for bass and pickerel during warmer months. Late afternoon into evening is a solid second option as water temperatures drop. Midday fishing in July and August tends to be slow when surface temps peak and fish move deeper or into shaded structure.
Some of Colchester's ponds have informal carry-in access suitable for kayaks and canoes, but motorized boats may be restricted or impractical given pond size. Check the Connecticut DEEP Boating Access map for confirmed launch points before loading up your vehicle. Fishing from the bank is a viable option at most of these locations if you scout the shoreline.
