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New Jersey · Fishing
Macopin sits in the Highlands region of Passaic County, and the fishing here is almost entirely still-water lake fishing — four lakes and ponds within reach, each with its own character.
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Macopin sits in the Highlands region of Passaic County, and the fishing here is almost entirely still-water lake fishing — four lakes and ponds within reach, each with its own character. Bear Swamp Lake and Forest Hill Lake are the largest options and tend to hold largemouth bass, pickerel, and panfish typical of New Jersey Highlands lakes. High Crest Lake is a smaller, quieter body of water that sees less pressure than the others. Henion Pond rounds out the list as a compact spot well-suited to anglers who want a low-key outing without a lot of walking. None of these waters appear on New Jersey's list of wild trout or gold medal designations, so trout fishing here is dependent on stocking schedules set by the NJDEP Division of Fish and Wildlife — check their current stocking reports before planning a spring trout trip. Shore access is the norm at most of these spots; if you want to fish from a boat, confirm launch availability and any horsepower restrictions before you haul a trailer out. A standard New Jersey freshwater fishing license is required for anyone 16 and older.
Bear Swamp Lake and Forest Hill Lake are typical New Jersey Highlands lakes, so largemouth bass, chain pickerel, yellow perch, and bluegill are the most consistent targets. Trout show up seasonally at stocked waters in this region, but you should verify current stocking reports through the NJDEP before making a trip specifically for trout.
Shore fishing is viable at all four locations. If you want to use a kayak or small boat at Bear Swamp Lake or Forest Hill Lake, check with the managing authority beforehand since many Highlands lakes have electric-motor-only or no-motor rules that affect how you fish them.
High Crest Lake
~1 min drive
A worthwhile stop near NJ.
Monksville Reservoir
~11 min drive
Moderate
Ramapo River - Mahwah Access
~20 min drive
Easy
Henion Pond
~1 min drive
A worthwhile stop near NJ.
Rockaway River - Boonton Reservoir Tailwater
~15 min drive
Moderate
Bear Swamp Lake
~2 min drive
A worthwhile stop near NJ.
Forest Hill Lake
~2 min drive
A worthwhile stop near NJ.
Macopin Reservoir
~3 min drive
A worthwhile stop near NJ.
Lake Kampfe
~3 min drive
A worthwhile stop near NJ.
Algonquian Waters Lake
~4 min drive
A worthwhile stop near NJ.
Indian Trail Lake
~5 min drive
A worthwhile stop near NJ.
Echo Lake
~5 min drive
A worthwhile stop near NJ.
Early morning and the last two hours before sunset are the most productive windows for bass and pickerel, especially in warmer months when fish push into shallower water to feed. Midday in summer is generally slow; if you're fishing then, focus on deeper structure or shaded coves.
A medium-light spinning setup in the 6- to 7-foot range covers most situations across these lakes. For bass and pickerel, soft plastics, spinnerbaits, and small crankbaits work well. If you're targeting panfish or want a simpler setup, a light rod with a bobber and live bait is hard to beat at Henion Pond or High Crest Lake.
Yes, a New Jersey freshwater fishing license is required for anyone 16 years of age or older. You can purchase one online through the NJDEP Fish and Wildlife licensing portal or at many local sporting goods retailers. License fees vary by residency status and duration.
