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Vermont · Fishing
Newport sits at the northern tip of Vermont on the shore of Lake Memphremagog, a long, deep lake that straddles the U.S.-Canada border and holds a legitimate mix of walleye, lake trout, rainbow trout, and brown trout.
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Newport sits at the northern tip of Vermont on the shore of Lake Memphremagog, a long, deep lake that straddles the U.S.-Canada border and holds a legitimate mix of walleye, lake trout, rainbow trout, and brown trout. The city boat launch gives you direct access to open water at 723 feet elevation, and the fishery is productive enough that it draws anglers from well outside the region, particularly in early spring and late fall when trout move shallower. The Clyde River, which flows into Memphremagog near downtown, adds a different option: an easy-access stretch where walleye, northern pike, largemouth bass, and smallmouth bass are all realistic targets from the bank or a small watercraft. Clyde Pond and Cobb Pond round out the local options for anglers who prefer quieter, smaller water. Newport is a practical base for a fishing trip rather than a scenic detour — the launches are maintained, the species variety is real, and you can cover lake, river, and pond fishing without driving more than a few miles.
Lake Memphremagog gives you a shot at walleye, lake trout, rainbow trout, and brown trout. The Clyde River access point is better suited for walleye, northern pike, largemouth bass, and smallmouth bass. Clyde Pond and Cobb Pond are smaller waters, so manage expectations there accordingly.
The Clyde River Newport access is rated easy and works well from the bank or with a small kayak or canoe. Lake Memphremagog is a large, deep lake where a boat makes a meaningful difference, especially for lake trout. The Newport City Boat Launch is the main put-in point for the lake.
Clyde Pond
~1 min drive
A worthwhile stop near VT.
Clyde River - Newport Access
~2 min drive
Easy
Lake Memphremagog - Newport City Boat Launch
~2 min drive
Moderate
Nulhegan River - Brunswick Access
~50 min drive
Hard
Cobb Pond
~4 min drive
A worthwhile stop near VT.
Missisquoi River - Sheldon Springs Access
~1h 4m drive
Easy
Willowvale Fishing Area - Lamoille River
~45 min drive
Moderate
Lake Derby
~6 min drive
A worthwhile stop near VT.
Connecticut River - Canaan Access
~53 min drive
Moderate
Farrell Pond
~9 min drive
A worthwhile stop near VT.
Pensioner Pond
~12 min drive
A worthwhile stop near VT.
Kidder Pond
~13 min drive
A worthwhile stop near VT.
Early spring and late fall are the strongest windows for trout on Memphremagog, when water temperatures bring fish into more accessible depths. Bass and pike on the Clyde River fish well through summer. Ice fishing on the lake and ponds is also popular in winter when conditions allow.
You need a valid Vermont fishing license for all waters on the U.S. side. Because Lake Memphremagog crosses into Quebec, be aware that fishing the Canadian portion requires a separate Quebec license. Check current Vermont Fish and Wildlife regulations before your trip, as slot limits and season dates for lake trout and walleye can vary by water body.
For the Clyde River, a medium spinning rod with 8-12 lb line covers bass, pike, and walleye without overcomplicating things. On Memphremagog, lake trout often run deep outside of spring and fall, so downriggers or lead-core line help if you're targeting them from a boat. Walleye on both the lake and river respond well to jigs and live-bait rigs fished near bottom.
