New Jersey · Fishing
Fishing in Woodland Township, New Jersey
Woodland Township sits deep in the Pinelands, and the fishing here reflects that setting — quiet, unhurried, and a little off the radar compared to the more trafficked lakes in Burlington County.
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View on mapFishing · 3 spots
Woodland Township sits deep in the Pinelands, and the fishing here reflects that setting — quiet, unhurried, and a little off the radar compared to the more trafficked lakes in Burlington County. The three spots on this page, Goose Pond, Decou Pond, and Burrs Mill Brook Reservoir, are all lake and pond fisheries, which means you're working relatively still or slow-moving water rather than chasing current. The Pinelands environment shapes these waters in a specific way: naturally acidic, tea-colored from tannins, and generally low in nutrients. That affects which species thrive here and how they behave. Largemouth bass are the most consistent target across Pine Barrens ponds like these, and pickerel are common enough that you should expect them on almost any retrieve. Panfish — bluegill and pumpkinseed — fill out the picture. None of these are large impoundments, so you're fishing accessible shoreline water, and a small kayak or canoe opens up a lot more of each pond than bank fishing alone. If you're coming from outside the region, build in time to find access points before you start fishing — parking and launch spots at smaller Pinelands ponds are not always obvious from a map.
Frequently asked questions
What fish species can I realistically expect to catch at Goose Pond, Decou Pond, and Burrs Mill Brook Reservoir?
Largemouth bass and chain pickerel are the most likely catches across all three spots. Panfish including bluegill and pumpkinseed are also present. The acidic, tannin-stained water typical of Pine Barrens ponds does not support trout, so don't plan a trip around that.
Do I need a New Jersey fishing license to fish these waters?
Yes. Any angler 16 or older needs a valid New Jersey freshwater fishing license. You can purchase one through the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife website or at licensed agents. Check the current NJ fishing regulations guide for any Pinelands-specific rules before your trip, as rules can change season to season.
What gear setup works best for Pine Barrens pond fishing?
Light to medium spinning tackle handles most situations here. For bass and pickerel, soft plastics, spinnerbaits, and weedless rigs work well around the vegetation and woody structure common in these ponds. Bring wire leaders or heavy fluorocarbon if you're targeting pickerel specifically, since they will cut through light monofilament.
What time of day is best for fishing these ponds?
Early morning is consistently the most productive window for bass and pickerel in warm months, before surface temperatures rise and fish push deeper or into shade. Late afternoon into evening is a solid second option. Midday fishing in summer is slower but can still produce panfish near structure.
Can I launch a kayak or canoe at these spots, and is there parking?
Small, car-top watercraft are practical for all three ponds and will give you access to water that bank anglers can't reach. That said, formal launch ramps are not guaranteed at any of these locations. Scout access points ahead of time using satellite imagery or contact the New Jersey DEP or Burlington County for current access information, since conditions and permissions at smaller Pinelands ponds can vary.
