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Connecticut · Fishing
Dayville sits in the quiet northeastern corner of Connecticut, and its fishing scene reflects that — five stillwater spots within easy reach, all of them pond or lake fishing rather than moving water.
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Dayville sits in the quiet northeastern corner of Connecticut, and its fishing scene reflects that — five stillwater spots within easy reach, all of them pond or lake fishing rather than moving water. Smith Pond, Warsaw Pond, Lake Albert, Grist Mill Pond, and Cemetery Pond make up the local lineup, and while none of them are destination fisheries that draw crowds from across the state, they're genuinely productive for anglers who know still water and are willing to put in a few early mornings. The ponds vary in size and character, so it's worth doing a quick scout before you commit to a full session. Connecticut DEEP manages stocking schedules for many waters in Windham County, and checking their current stocking reports before you go will tell you more about recent activity than anything else. Access points tend to be modest — don't expect boat launches or amenities at most of these spots. A kayak or canoe opens up more of the water, but bank fishing is workable at several of them. If you're driving in from outside the area, Dayville is a straightforward stop, and the lack of crowds is a genuine advantage over more well-known Connecticut fisheries.
The activity listings cover lake and pond fishing without specifying species, so the honest answer is to check Connecticut DEEP's stocking reports for Smith Pond, Warsaw Pond, Lake Albert, Grist Mill Pond, and Cemetery Pond before your trip. Warmwater species like largemouth bass, yellow perch, and chain pickerel are common across Windham County ponds, and DEEP stocks trout in many Connecticut stillwaters seasonally — but confirm which of these specific ponds are on the stocking list for your visit window.
Yes. Anyone 16 or older needs a valid Connecticut fishing license to fish any of these waters. You can purchase one through the Connecticut DEEP online licensing portal or at local license agents. If you're targeting trout during the season, check whether a separate trout stamp is required — Connecticut regulations change periodically and the DEEP website has the current requirements.
Middle Reservoir
~1 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CT.
Alvia Chase Reservoir
~1 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CT.
Alvia Chase Reservoir
~2 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CT.
Cemetery Pond
~3 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CT.
Killingly Pond
~3 min drive
A worthwhile stop near RI.
Hopkins Pond
~3 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CT.
Mowry Meadow
~4 min drive
A worthwhile stop near RI.
Hygeia Reservoir
~4 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CT.
Breakneck Pond
~4 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CT.
Warsaw Pond
~4 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CT.
Lake Belle
~4 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CT.
Grist Mill Pond
~5 min drive
A worthwhile stop near CT.
Early morning and the last two hours before sunset are consistently the most productive windows for stillwater fishing, particularly for bass and perch. Midday in summer tends to push fish deeper and slow surface activity considerably. If you're fishing after a stocking event, timing matters less — recently stocked fish are more active throughout the day.
These are small ponds, so if you bring anything motorized, check local regulations first — many Connecticut ponds either prohibit motors or restrict them to electric only. A kayak, canoe, or small inflatable is the practical choice and will give you access to water that bank anglers can't reach. Don't assume a formal launch ramp exists at any of these locations; a hand-carry put-in is more likely.
Pond fishing is generally a good fit for beginners — no current to manage, simpler presentations, and the ability to move around the bank until you find fish. Cemetery Pond and Grist Mill Pond, given their names, are likely smaller and more contained, which can make them easier to fish without a boat. Bring simple gear: a light spinning rod, a few bobbers, and some worms or small soft plastics will cover most situations across these waters.
