New Hampshire · Fishing
Fishing in Nottingham, New Hampshire
Nottingham sits in a quiet corner of Rockingham County where fishing means lakes and ponds rather than rivers, and the options are more varied than the town's size suggests.
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Nottingham sits in a quiet corner of Rockingham County where fishing means lakes and ponds rather than rivers, and the options are more varied than the town's size suggests. Pawtuckaway Lake is the centerpiece — a large, multi-basin lake that draws anglers after largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, yellow perch, and pickerel, with enough structure in its coves and rocky points to keep things interesting across seasons. Dead Pond and North River Pond round out the local options and tend to see far less pressure than Pawtuckaway, which makes them worth the extra effort to find access. All four listings here are lake or pond fisheries, so you're working stillwater — that shapes your gear choices, your timing, and your approach. Spring and fall are the most productive windows on these waters, when fish move shallow and cooler temperatures keep them active through the middle of the day. Summer fishing shifts toward early mornings and evenings. New Hampshire fishing regulations apply across all these waters, so a valid NH freshwater license is required before you wet a line.
Frequently asked questions
What fish species can I expect to catch on Pawtuckaway Lake?
Pawtuckaway Lake holds largemouth and smallmouth bass, chain pickerel, yellow perch, and white perch. It's a productive warmwater fishery, and bass in particular are the main draw for most visiting anglers working the lake's coves and submerged structure.
Do I need a boat to fish these waters, or is there shore access?
Pawtuckaway Lake has a state boat launch through Pawtuckaway State Park, and some shore fishing is possible within the park. Dead Pond and North River Pond are smaller and more remote, so access can be limited — scout the area ahead of time and be prepared for a short walk in. A kayak or canoe opens up all four waters considerably.
What time of year is best for fishing in Nottingham?
Late April through June is the most productive stretch, especially for bass as they move into shallower water before and after the spawn. Fall from September through October is a close second, with fish feeding heavily before winter. Midsummer fishing on Pawtuckaway Lake slows during the heat of the day but picks back up in early morning and at dusk.
What gear should I bring for lake and pond fishing here?
A medium-action spinning or baitcasting setup in the 6- to 7-foot range covers most situations on these waters. For bass and pickerel, soft plastics, spinnerbaits, and topwater lures work well around structure. If you're targeting perch, a lighter setup with small jigs or live bait is more appropriate. Bring polarized sunglasses — reading the water on Pawtuckaway's shallower coves makes a real difference.
Do I need a fishing license, and where do I get one?
Yes, a valid New Hampshire freshwater fishing license is required on all these waters. You can purchase one online through the NH Fish and Game Department website or at local license agents in the area. Have it on your person while fishing — wardens do check on Pawtuckaway Lake, particularly on busy spring weekends.
