New Hampshire · Fishing
Fishing in Andover, New Hampshire
Andover, New Hampshire sits in Merrimack County with quiet access to a handful of small ponds that don't draw the crowds you'll find at bigger lakes in the Lakes Region.
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Andover, New Hampshire sits in Merrimack County with quiet access to a handful of small ponds that don't draw the crowds you'll find at bigger lakes in the Lakes Region. The fishing here centers on Elbow Pond, Horseshoe Pond, and Cold Pond, all of which are lake fisheries rather than river or stream destinations. These are the kinds of places where you launch a canoe or kayak, work the edges near structure, and don't see another angler for hours. The ponds are modest in size, which means they warm up faster than deeper lakes come late summer, so timing your visit matters. Spring and early fall are the most productive windows. None of the waters in this immediate area carry a gold medal or wild trout designation, so expectations should be set accordingly — this is solid local fishing, not a destination trip built around trophy fish. That said, for someone staying in the Andover area or passing through the Upper Merrimack Valley, these ponds offer a low-pressure, accessible option that rewards anglers who pay attention to conditions and aren't chasing numbers.
Frequently asked questions
What kind of fish can I expect to catch at Elbow Pond, Horseshoe Pond, and Cold Pond?
These are typical New Hampshire small-pond fisheries, which generally hold warmwater species like largemouth bass and yellow perch alongside stocked trout in season. New Hampshire Fish and Game manages stocking schedules across the state, so check their online stocking report before your trip to see what has been recently added to these specific ponds.
What is the best time of year to fish these ponds?
Spring, from ice-out through late May, and early fall from September into October are the strongest windows. Summer can be productive early in the morning before water temperatures climb, but smaller ponds like these lose their edge for trout once surface temps rise through July and August.
Do I need a boat, or can I fish from shore?
Shore access varies by pond, and a canoe, kayak, or small car-top boat will open up significantly more water at all three locations. Check New Hampshire Fish and Game and town records for public access points before you go, since not every pond has a maintained boat launch.
What fishing license do I need?
You need a valid New Hampshire freshwater fishing license to fish any of these ponds. Licenses are available through the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department website or at local license agents. Non-residents pay a higher fee, and there are short-term options if you are only visiting for a few days.
What gear setup makes sense for these ponds?
A light to medium spinning rod in the 6 to 7 foot range handles most situations well here. For bass and perch, small soft plastics, spinners, and live bait all work. If you are targeting stocked trout, PowerBait or small inline spinners are reliable starting points. Keep your tackle selection simple since these are not technical fisheries.
