YOUR SOURCE for CT Fishing Information

Share the Experience—Take Someone Fishing • APRIL 8 Opening Day Trout Fishing 2017 CONNECTICUT ANGLER’S GUIDE INLAND & MARINE FISHING

»New Marine Regulations for 2017 See page 58

YOUR SOURCE For CT Fishing Information

Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection www.ct.gov/deep/fishing FISHING REGULATIONS GUIDE - GA TRIM: ...... 8˝ X 10-1/2˝ (AND VARIOUS OTHER STATES) BLEED: ...... 8-1/4˝ X 10-3/4˝

SAFETY: ...... 7˝ X 10˝ TRIM TRIM SAFETY TRIM BLEED BLEED SAFETY

BLEED BLEED TRIM TRIM

SAFETY SAFETY

TRIM TRIM BLEED BLEED TRIM TRIM TRIM BLEED BLEED SAFETY SAFETY

Client: Progressive Job No: 16D00890 Created by: Dalon Wolford Applications: InDesign CC, Adobe Photoshop CC, Adobe Illustrator CC Job Description: Full Page, 4 Color Ad Document Name: Bass ad / Fishing Regulations Guide - GA and various other states Final Trim Size: 7-7/8˝ X 10-1/2˝ Final Bleed: 8-1/8˝ X 10-13/16˝ Safety: 7˝ X 10˝ Date Created: 11/7/16 2017 CONNECTICUT ANGLER’S GUIDE INLAND REGULATIONS INLAND & MARINE FISHING Easy two-step process: 1. Check the REGULATION TABLE (page 21) for general statewide Contents regulations. General Fishing Information 2. Look up the waterbody in the LAKE AND PONDS Directory of Services Phone Numbers...... 2 (pages 32–41) or RIVERS AND STREAMS (pages 44–52) Licenses...... 10 listings to find any special regulations. Permits...... 11 National Saltwater Registry Program...... 11 Trophy Fish Award Affidavit...... 12 Trophy Fish Awards...... 13 Bait and Tackle Shops...... 14 Law Enforcement...... 16 Are The Fish I Catch Safe To Eat?...... 17 Aquatic Invasive Species...... 18–19 Responsible Angling...... 20

Inland Fisheries Inland Recreational Fishing Regulations...... 21 Definitions...... 26–27 Disabled Access...... 27 Atlantic Salmon Broodstock Fishery...... 28 Alewives & Blueback Herring...... 28 Neighborhood Fishing Opportunities...... 30 Record Freshwater Fish...... 31 Lakes & Ponds...... 32–41 A Guide to Catchable Freshwater Fish...... 42–43 Rivers & Streams...... 44–52

Marine Fisheries Line Between Marine & Inland Districts...... 54 LEARN TO FISH: Free Classes, Page 6 Fishing in Coastal State Parks...... 55 The Connecticut Aquatic Resources Education (CARE) Program Enhanced Fishing Opportunities...... 56 will introduce you and your family to the fun of fishing. Expert instruction, hands-on activities and a fishing trip will lead to Marine Angler Survey ...... 57 wonderful time spent outside with your family or friends. Marine Volunteer Angler Survey Program...... 57 Marine Recreational Regulations...... 58 Rules Covering Crabs, Lobsters, Shellfish & Bait...... 60 Coastal Boat Launches...... 61 ON THE COVER State Record Marine Fish...... 62 Derek Angel with a nice Bluefish caught using a Tide Table...... 64 clouser minnow on the dropping tide at Silver Sands State Park, Milford. Photo by Nick Walsh. This high quality, scenic, and colorful photo was Opening Day: April 8th, 2017 selected from over 250 entries and represents the quality shoreline fishing that can be found at the Enhanced Shoreline Fishing Opportunity Sites (page 56), coastal State Parks page 55), and FREE FISHING DAY 2017 through state-owned boat launches.

May 13th—no license required. TO REPORT A WILDLIFE VIOLATION For updates to the 2017 CT Angler’s Guide and other Call 1-800-842-HELP fishing information see: 24 Hours Toll Free • All Calls Confidential www.ct.gov/deep/fishing CT Department of Energy & Environmental Protection 2017 CONNECTICUT ANGLER’S GUIDE INLAND & MARINE FISHING The Connecticut Angler’s Guide is published annually by the State of Connecticut Dannel P. Malloy, Governor Department of Energy & Marine Fisheries Program Williamstown, MA | Birmingham, AL Environmental Protection Mark Alexander, Assistant Director Robert Klee, Commissioner Susan Whalen, Deputy Commissioner Department of Energy & Environmental Protection Bureau of Natural Resources 79 Elm Street William A. Hyatt, Chief Hartford, CT 06106-5127 www.ct.gov/deep About This Guide Fisheries Division Peter J. Aarrestad, Director This high-quality guide is offered to you by the Connecticut Department of Energy The Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection is an Affirmative Action/Equal & Environmental Protection through Opportunity Employer that is committed to complying with the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Please contact us at (860) 418-5910 or [email protected] if you: have a disability its unique partnership with J.F. Griffin and need a communication aid or service; have limited proficiency in English and may need information Publishing, LLC. in another language; or if you wish to file an ADA or Title VI discrimination complaint. The revenue generated through ad sales This Guide is intended to provide a summary of the more important rules and regulations governing significantly lowers production costs and sport fishing in Connecticut and to assist in the enjoyment of the angling experience. For legal purposes, generates savings. These savings translate the Regulations of Connecticut State Agencies and the Connecticut General Statutes must be consulted. into additional funds for other important NOTICE: Some advertisements in this publication may state that “No sales tax” is due. This is because the retailer is agency programs. located in a state that does not impose sales or use tax, and the retailer is not registered to collect Connecticut sales and use taxes. While you may not have to pay sales tax in the state where you bought the goods or services, you must If you have any feedback or are inter- pay Connecticut use tax on taxable goods or services purchased for use in Connecticut. For more information, see ested in advertising, please contact us at the Department of Revenue Services’ Informational Publication 2011(15), Q&A on the Connecticut Individual Use Tax: 413.884.1001 or at www.JFGriffin.com www.ct.gov/drs/lib/drs/publications/pubsip/2011/ip2011-15.pdf Graphic Design: Directory of Services Jon Gulley, Dane Fay, John Corey, For additional information the following DEEP offices may be contacted from 8:30 a.m. to Evelyn Haddad, Chris Sobolowski 4:30 p.m. Please note that the DEEP – Licensing and Revenue Permit Sales Office is open from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Note that the Sales Office closes at noon before major holidays and may close early during periods of severe weather.

DEEP website...... www.ct.gov/deep Parks & Recreation...... 860-424-3200 Fisheries Division Wildlife...... 860-424-3011 (Central Office)...... 860-424-3474 Forestry...... 860-424-3630 Inland Fisheries...... 860-424-3474 General DEEP Information....860-424-3000 Licensing & Revenue...... 860-424-3105 Marine Fisheries Program (Headquarters—Old Lyme)...... 860-434-6043 DEEP Store (Maps & Publications)...... 860-424-3555 Environmental Conservation Police...... 860-424-3012

Field Services Questions concerning hunting, trapping, fishing, boating, camping, recreational use of state lands, forestry, and law enforcement may be directed to one of the following field offices (8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.).

Eastern Area Marine Law Headquarters...... 860-295-9523 Enforcement...... 860-434-9840 Western Area Boating Safety Headquarters...... 860-485-0226 and Education...... 860-434-8638 Marine Headquarters...... 860-434-6148

Other Useful Numbers This guide is also Aquaculture Division (Dept. Of Agriculture) Oil And Chemical Spill Shellfish...... 203-874-0696 Response Division...... 860-424-3338 available online at

24 Hour Emergency Numbers Toll free report a violation.....1-800-842-4357 DEEP Emergency Dispatch.860-424-3333

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It’s time to revisit a topic from a previous year: the revenue generated by anglers and hunters and how it compares to the operating cost of our natural resource programs. I continue to enjoy the many opportunities I have to meet with Connecticut anglers, hunters, and conservation groups. Talking about all the good things our agency does to conserve fish and wildlife and enhance fishing and hunting, and listening to the stories told by anglers and hunters, are clearly the highlights of these meetings. How- ever, I also get asked many questions about our budget and hear many concerns that money spent on licenses is not coming back to support conservation programs. I’m hoping that the updated information presented here will answer most of your questions and address some common misconceptions. The pie charts below provide a quick look at funding sources for the Bureau of Natural Resources (BNR) and how these monies were allocated among our different programs for 2015. We used 2015 because we were still compiling the 2016 information at the time of publication. Reference to “GF” refers to funds that move through the state General Fund. A few things immediately stand out. It’s clear that anglers and hunters provide a large share of the total revenue, and hence cover much of the total cost of BNR programs. Through the purchase of licenses, permits, tags and stamps, along with the federal excise tax paid on the purchase of fishing and hunting equipment (Wildlife and Sportfish Restoration), anglers and hunters contribute nearly 60% of total BNR funding equaling more than $14 million per year. Given that our total natural resource expenditures for 2015 were $24 million, it should be clear that all of the revenue generated from the sale of fishing and hunting licenses, permits, tags and stamps is coming back to support conservation programs. In fact, the federal government requires that each state pass a law, as a precondition of accepting U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service funds, ensuring that all such revenues are used exclusively to support fish & wildlife programs (see Section 26-15 of the Connecticut General Statutes). One last item regarding our funding. Please note the exploded portion of the pie chart on the left. This portion, totaling approximately $7 million, represents the General Fund/taxpayer supported part of our BNR budget that is above and beyond the funding coming from anglers and hunters, other revenue, or grants. The chart on spending shows the array of programs necessary to deliver a comprehensive and effective conservation effort that cuts across the Connecticut landscape and serves the diversity of Connecticut residents. These activities include conservation of forest lands, fish & wildlife populations and their habitats, and elements as diverse as the management of marine commercial fisheries, trout and pheasant stocking, hunter and aquatic education, control of invasive species, conservation of non-game species, and technical assistance to the public. Anglers and hunters have clearly demonstrated a long-term commitment to on-the-ground conservation that benefits all Connecticut residents. Likewise, all Connecticut taxpayers contribute via funds that are used by the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection to support State Parks, purchase land, and to regulate activities that have an impact on our natural environment. The bottom line is that all of us contribute, and anglers and hunters in particular have gone the extra mile and should be especially proud of what they’ve accomplished. These are difficult times, but thanks to all of you we have built a solid foundation upon which to meet future conservation challenges. William A. Hyatt Chief, Bureau of Natural Resources

Bureau of Natural Resources 2015 Funding Sources Bureau of Natural Resources 2015 Expenditures Approximately $24,000,000 Approximately $24,000,000

Wildlife Fisheries (Inland & Marine) Forestry Habitat Conservation Fisheries Monitoring & Management State & Private Lands Management Species Conservation Habitat Conservation Fire Protection & Forest Health Research & Management Commercial Fisheries Management Urban & Community Forestry Outreach & Education Fish Culture (Hatcheries) Outreach & Education

4 2017 Connecticut Angler’s Guide Stephanie Ortiz holds her impressive 2017 FISHING PHOTO 9+ pound Tautog caught near Fairfield. CONTEST

Harrison Vasil with his 13" Smallmouth INNER Bass out of the Naugatuck River in W S Beacon Falls.

Grand2017 Prize

Julia Pickering is off to a good lifetime of angling after catching this Yellow Perch by herself through the ice at New Milford Reservoir.

Shawna Casper with a jumbo doormat of a Fluke (24.5") caught using a 6 oz ball weight with yellow mullet.

Derek Angel with a nice Bluefish caught using a clouser Fly Fishing minnow on the dropping tide at Silver Sands State Photo by Nick Walsh. Rules Park, Milford.

Please check out other great photo submissions Nate Lewis, a Hartford Whaler fan, with his 23" Atlantic salmon caught in used throughout this Angler’s Guide and on our the Naugatuck River. web page at www.ct.gov/deep/fishing

What better way to share the excitement of your catch than to have every angler carrying it around. We are now accepting high quality photos (please submit digital images to: [email protected]) of anglers with their catches from Connecticut waters for the 2018 CT Angler's Guide. w FREE FAMILY FISHING LESSONS!

Where Connecticut Learns to Fish! Since 1986, the CARE program has been training and partnering with volunteers in order to conduct FREE family fishing courses around the state! Let CARE introduce you and your family to the wonderful world of fishing and connect you to CT’s amazing natural resources. For more information about CARE, becoming an instructor, and our class schedule visit www.ct.gov/deep/care. CARE Connecticut Annual CARE Special Fishing Events Family Fishing & Family Ice Fishing Classes Aquatic • January: Winter Ice Fishing Derby • Held at a location near you Resources • February: Winterfest with No Child Left Inside© • Classroom instruction (2 hours) • May: Family Fishing Day • Fishing trip to a local water Education • August: Saltwater Fishing Event • www.ct.gov/deep/care (schedule) • Equipment is provided for use Summer Camp Fishing Programs 860.663.1656 • Half-day classes for campers Forster Pond School Partnership www.ct.gov/deep/care • Partner with summer camps • Teachers are trained on CARE curriculum • Morning & afternoon classes • Students are taught in their own classroom • Up to 30 campers age 8–15 • Field trip to our fishing education center

Share your passion for fishing. Join our team. Become a CARE volunteer fishing Instructor! CARE new instructor training courses are offered each February and June. Call us at 860-663-1656 to apply. Applicants must pass a State Police background check.

Thank You Instructors! The CARE Program would like to thank all volunteer Instructors – especially RICHARD EMMONS, MARIANNE KOZIKOWSKI, and TIM IRWIN who have been teaching fishing classes for 15 years! Together, these environmental stewards have combined to volunteer over 2,000 hours while Care Instructor Care Instructor Care Instructor teaching over 13,500 new anglers about the sport of fishing. Marianne Kozikowski Tim Irwin Thank you CARE Instructors! Richard Emmons THE SIMPLE ACT OF FISHING, PRESERVES FISHING. Every time you purchase a ﬁ shing license or register your boat, a portion of the proceeds go toward preserving our nation’s coastlines, lakes, rivers and streams. Protecting our memories on the water for generations to come.

Learn more at TakeMeFishing.org/Conservation

46831_TMF_PSA_Pg_Ad.indd 1 2/4/11 9:53 AM DON’T BE A BONEHEAD, OR A JOHNNY FISHSEED!!!

onnecticut’s fisheries have been Disruption of our fisheries is not limited • Check, Drain, and Dry before moving Cestablished and are monitored by to the Illegal stocking of known problem to a new waterbody. Boaters, the law professional biologists who carefully species like Asian carp, snakehead, and (CGS 15-180; CGS 22a-381d) requires evaluate and consider pros, cons and others, but can potentially include popu- the inspection and removal and proper risks prior to the introduction of any fish lar gamefish like Brown Trout, Rainbow disposal of vegetation and potential to the waters of the state. These fisheries Trout, Walleye, Northern Pike, Bowfin, invasive species prior to transporting are a multi-million dollar resource that and Calico Bass. When moved to new the vessel. You can be fined $95 per we all enjoy, and our sport fisheries are waters, all have the potential to alter violation. some of the finest in North America. existing fisheries and aquatic systems. Three fish that have already proven to Fish communities are often in a deli- Moving live fish to new waterbodies is be disruptive to Connecticut’s aquatic cate balance, easily disrupted by seem- both a bad idea and illegal (Connecticut systems are: ingly insignificant and harmless actions. General Statute 26-55)! You can be fined • White Perch: Can be very prolific, cre- $85 per violation (each fish). The dan- ating large populations of very small ger is once a new fish species becomes fish (stunted) which, decrease the over- NEGATIVE IMPACT established; removal of the undesirable all food supply for other fish species. or disruptive fish species from a water- • Alewife (land-locked): Feed on micro- Moving live fish from one water to another body is labor intensive, costly, and usu- scopic zooplankton (animal plankton) or introducing a new species may have a ally ineffective. and reduce the growth and survival of negative impact on a new waterbody by: YOU CAN HELP: the young of many fish species. • Changing the amount and type of • Rock Bass: where they have become food available • Only release fish back into the same waterbody where they were caught. numerous, they have resulted in • Causing reductions in popular recre- • Apply for a permit from the Inland Fish- reduced numbers of more desirable ational species eries Division (www.ct.gov/deep/fishing). fish species such as largemouth and • Reducing native fish species • Inform CT DEEP if you are aware smallmouth bass. • Changes in water quality and clarity of others illegally introducing fish • Transferring unintended harmful (860-424-FISH or 860-424-3333). aquatic plants and animals (in the • Unless obtained on site, dispose of all water used to keep the fish alive unused live bait into an appropriate during transport). trash container.

8 2017 Connecticut Angler’s Guide Marine Regulations

THE CHANGING FACE OF MARINE FISHERIES REGULATIONS: The goal of regulating marine fisheries is to prevent over- fishing and maintain over time, abundant, self-sustaining fisheries, based on the best scientific information while remaining fair and equitable to recreational and commercial fishermen. As marine fishes more often than not cross state boundaries, stewardship of the resource is maintained by multi-state commissions and regional fishery management councils. In our case, fish are managed in state waters by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission and in federal waters by the New England Fishery Management Council. Each individual state contributes to the process by submitting data, providing technical and advisory support, and compiling feedback from the public. Ultimately, states are responsible to implement a collective management decision made through a larger commission or council. To achieve this goal, an intensive process has to support a plan to address an identified issue management, please visit the Atlantic States been standardized to ensure that all stakeholders for a particular species throughout its range. Marine Fisheries Commission’s web page at http:// have input on the interpretation of the best avail- The graphic above summarizes key steps in www.asmfc.org/fisheries-science/fisheries-science-101. able scientific data about a species. The process the process for the development or change in Because of the process, marine regulations are is multi-tiered and involves input from many the regulation for a species through the Atlantic often finalized after the start of the calendar year people along the way. The final product is the States Marine Fisheries Commission. (which is why the Connecticut Angler’s Guide is implementation of a regulation at the state level For more information about marine fisheries not ready for distribution on January 1).

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RECREATIONAL FISHING LICENSES COMMERCIAL LICENSES Thank you for your support of fisheries programs and our fisheries. All A commercial license is required to take, possess or land (regardless where (100%) of the money generated from your purchase of a license goes taken) fish, lobsters, blue crabs, whelk, squid, sea scallops, horseshoe to support Connecticut’s fish and wildlife. Your support is critical to crabs and bait species intended for sale from both the inland and marine help sustain our passion. districts. Contact the DEEP Marine Fisheries Program at 860-434-6043 An Inland fishing license is required for anyone 16 years of age or or write to the Marine Fisheries Program at [email protected] older fishing in the Inland District (see page 54 for demarcation between or P.O. Box 719, Old Lyme, CT 06371 for further information on com- Inland and Marine Districts). A marine recreational fishing license is mercial fishingwww.ct.gov/deep/CommercialFishing . required for anyone age 16 of age or older fishing from shore or from a boat in the marine district. Most licenses are issued on a calendar year basis and expire on December 31st. CT RESIDENT CT RESIDENT NON-RESIDENT Licenses are available online at www.ct.gov/deep/fishing. Licenses are LICENSE TYPE AGE 18–64 AGE 16 OR 17 16 OR OLDER FEE FEE FEE also available at participating town halls, tackle retailers and DEEP field offices. For a complete list of vendors, visit the DEEP website or call DEEP SPORT FISHING LICENSES (FEE IS US DOLLARS) Licensing and Revenue (860-424-3105). Inland waters only $28 $14 $55 Active Armed Forces Members Any active, full-time member of the armed forces may be issued fishing Marine waters only $10 $5 $15 and/or small game firearms licenses for the resident fee. Proof of member- ship during the calendar year must be carried while using the license. All waters $32 $16 $63 These licenses are available only at town clerk and select DEEP offices. 1 day - Marine waters only $5 $3 n/a Other Recreational Marine Licenses 3 consecutive days - Special “Personal Use” licenses are required for: a) persons taking n/a n/a $22 lobsters for their own use by up to 10 pots or SCUBA, and B) persons Inland waters only taking menhaden with a single gill net not more than 60 feet in length, 3 consecutive days - for personal use from marine waters only. n/a n/a $8 • Personal Use Lobster License: $60.00 Marine waters only (purchase of pot tags also required if using pots) COMBINATION LICENSES (FEE IS US DOLLARS) • Personal Use Gillnet License for Menhaden: $100 Inland Waters and Marine “Personal Use” licenses are issued on a calendar year basis, are $38 $19 $110 non-transferable, and are only issued by DEEP Licensing and Revenue at Firearms hunting 79 Elm St., Hartford, CT 06106-5127. See www.ct.gov/deep/fishinglicense Marine Waters and for additional information and a license application. $25 $13 $94 Firearms hunting

All Waters and $40 $20 $120 FREE FISHING LICENSE DAYS Firearms hunting

June 18th & August 12th. All Waters and bow and arrow permit to hunt deer and small $65 $33 n/a Get a free one-day license to fish on these days. game

FREE LICENSES

GROUP FISHING LICENSES CT Resident age 65 and older n/a n/a n/a

FREE SPECIAL LICENSES Available to qualified 501(c)(3) organizations wishing to conduct group (AVAILABLE ONLY AT PARTICIPATING TOWN HALLS AND SELECTED DEEP OFFICES). fishing programs and events for qualified: • Veterans with a service-related or other disability. Blind Inland or Marine fishing 1 Free Free n/a • Persons receiving mental health or addiction services from the license (lifetime). Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) and Intellectual disability Inland or associated programs & facilities. Free Free n/a Marine fishing license (lifetime).1 • Individuals with autism or intellectual disabilities receiving services from the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) or a facility Free to qualified Physically handicapped (loss of licensed by DDS; or nonresidents one or more limbs, or perma- who reside in • Persons receiving care from the Department of Children and nent loss of the use of one or Free Free states which Families (DCF), DCF receiving homes, or certain DCF-licensed child more limbs), Inland or Marine allow CT resi- care facilities or programs. waters fishing, hunting, or dents the same combination licenses (lifetime).2 Qualified organizations can apply for a Group Fishing License ($125.00) to privilege. hold up to 50 events per year (both inland and marine water). Each event is limited to 50 people and must be supervised by organization staff or 1 Issuance of a free license to the blind or individuals with intellectual disabilities (as defined volunteers (who must have their fishing licenses). No fee can be charged to in Public Act 11-16) requires proof of disability in the form of a certificate provided by any participate and the events may not be used as a fundraiser. person licensed to practice medicine in this state. Contact DEEP Inland Fisheries for more information and application forms. 2 Any resident with the loss of a limb or the permanent loss of the use of a limb and a doctor’s certificate may be issued a free license. Qualified nonresidents who are residents of states which allow CT residents the same privileges are also eligible.

10 2017 Connecticut Angler’s Guide Permits

Submit your permit applications online — Special Regulations on Association Controlled Waters A convenient on-line system is now available Any association owning or controlling the fishing rights in a stream or pond for the submittal of fisheries related permits. may request a temporary change in fishing regulations at their water body. The ezFile system offers a safe, secure, and convenient process to submit your permit applications. After DEEP Private Waters Registration review, you will receive the appropriate documentation via email, no Can be acquired by individuals or a corporation that meet the eligibil- more paper to fax, scan or mail. ity criteria. There is a non-refundable $140.00 application fee. As each Questions about ezFile or need help? Call us at 860-424-FISH (3474). situation is unique, please call 860-424-3474 to discuss options. 1. Get started with ezFile: Marine Fish Tournament/Derby Registration 2. Download Google Chrome (recommended browser) Required to conduct a marine fishing tournament or derby in Connecti- 3. Selecting the ezFile icon on http://www.ct.gov/deep/fishing cut that is open to persons 16 years of age and older as described under 4. Select “create an account” section 26-159a-26 of the Regulations of Connecticut State Agencies. 5. Follow the instructions (should take about 5 minutes). There is no charge for the registration. FISHERIES RELATED PERMITS AND REGISTRATIONS SERVED BY EZFILE: Inland Fishing Tournament/Derby Permit IMPORTATION AND/OR Required to conduct a fishing tournament or derby on inland waters open LIBERATION PERMIT FOR to public fishing involving anglers 16 years or older. Organized events, like fishing tournaments, are usually limited to 50% of the parking TRIPLOID GRASS CARP capacity at a state-owned launch. Open water catch-and-release-only Authorizes the importation, possession and liberation of triploid tournaments can be granted an exemption from Bass Management grass carp into inspected/approved ponds. Possession of diploid Area special regulations (exemptions available for all Bass Management grass carp is prohibited. Triploid grass carp represent one method lakes from September 1 through June 30, exemptions granted only for of controlling nuisance aquatic vegetation. The Fisheries Division Gardner Lake and Mansfield Hollow Reservoir from July 1 to August 31). inspects all ponds to determine regulatory compliance, particularly Additional guidelines and restrictions may apply for open-water trout to verify that the fish can not escape from the waters in which they tournaments/derbies conducted on waters managed by the state for trout. were stocked, thereby preventing off-site damage to aquatic habitats. Liberation (Stock) of Live Fish Grass carp information packets and application forms can be obtained Required each time any live fish or live fish eggs are released into any by contacting the Fisheries Division at 860-424-3474. pond, lake, or stream in Connecticut (it is illegal to introduce any aquarium fish into any waters of Connecticut). Importation of Live Fish or Fish Eggs Required each time live fish or live fish eggs are brought into Connecti- NATIONAL SALTWATER cut from outside the State (No permit is required to import common ANGLER REGISTRY aquarium species). Note: Possession or importation of a number of species including Congress, through the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation piranha, walking catfish, black, sliver and bighead carp, gizzard shad, and Management Act, called on NOAA Fisheries to create a national and all species of snakehead (family Channidae) is prohibited. registry of saltwater anglers. Required by the Magnuson-Stevens Act, the Marine Recreational Angler Program (MRIP) is a partnership working to improve saltwater recreational fishing data collection and Permits are required for these activities: provide more informed fisheries conservation. • Stock fish or import fish into the state The angler registry will improve data collection by creating a universe • Conduct a fishing tournament or derby of saltwater anglers, essentially a phonebook of fishermen. This • Use grass carp to manage aquatic plants resource will help reduce bias and improve the efficiency of catch and effort surveys. Instead of asking a random sample of coastal U.S. residents if they’ve gone fishing (what is currently done), an angler registry through a phone or mail survey would allow survey- ors to call upon those who have already identified themselves as NOTICE TO SPORTSMEN saltwater fishermen. A judgement or a plea of guilty, forfeiture of a bond, or payment of Anglers please note: a fine for a fishing, hunting, or trapping violation may result in the New York, Rhode Island, Maine and Massachusetts also have marine suspension of your fishing, hunting, or trapping license. license requirements. Though Connecticut has reciprocity with these neighboring states, residents of Connecticut are required to have a CT Resident Marine Waters Sport Fishing License to fish in the BUY ONLINE Marine District. ENJOY THE CONVENIENCE Connecticut anglers holding valid marine waters fishing license are of purchasing fishing, hunting exempt from National Saltwater Angler Registry. and trapping licenses and permits For more information, please see www.countmyfish.noaa.gov or directly over the internet. www.nmfs.noaa.gov/sfa/management/recreational MOBILE FRIENDLY! www.ct.gov/deep/fishing www.ct.gov/deep/fishing 11 Trophy Fish Award Program

TROPHY FISH AWARD AFFIDAVIT NOTE: POTENTIAL STATE RECORD FISH MUST BE WEIGHED ON A CERTIFIED SCALE. Kind of Fish Where Caught Town (port) PHOTOGRAPH (PICTURE) MUST ACCOMPANY AFFIDAVIT. DATE CAUGHT / / CATCH & RELEASE?  Yes  No YOUTH OR ADULT?  Youth (under 16 years of age)  Adult HOW CAUGHT  Fly Fishing  Bait Casting  Bottom Fishing  Spin Fishing  Live Bait  Trolling  Ice Fishing  Day  Night Kind of Lure or Bait Used CAUGHT BY Angler (print & sign name) Conservation ID# Mailing Address Phone Number Email MEASURING & WEIGHING (Harvested fish may be weighed at any CT bait and tackle shop.) Catch & Release Length (inches) Harvested Fish (caught & kept) Weight (lbs, ozs) Length (inches) Weigh In Location Witness Date Phone Number Email I, (signature & address of witness) witnessed the measuring and weighing (Catch-and-Release fish must include an image of the fish next to a measuring device and need not be weighed) of the above-described fish, and verified the weight and measurements. The fish was weighed on a scale inspected by the CT Department of Consumer Protection. Certification # or Vendor Name or Inspectors Name AUTHORIZATION AND RELEASE FOR USE OF PHOTOGRAPH (IMAGES) Please provide a photo or digital image for fish identification purposes. Digital images can be emailed to [email protected] Note: Each individual pictured must sign a release in order for the DEEP to use the picture. Parent/Guardian must sign for minor children. I, , DO HEREBY AUTHORIZE THE Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection (“Department”) to use my photographic likeness in the Department’s Fisheries reports, publications and/or its Internet web site. I understand that such reports, publications and/or web site will be disseminated to the public and may be copied or otherwise reproduced. I hereby release the Department from any liability that may arise from using my photographic likeness in such reports, publications and/or web site. I also release the Department from any liability that may arise from dissemination of such reports, publications and/or web site or the use of the reports, publications and/or web site by the public. Signature(s) Date This form can be downloaded from www.ct.gov/deep/fishing FRESHWATER FISH mail to: DEEP Fisheries Division, 79 Elm Street, 6th floor, Hartford, CT 06106-5127 SALTWATER FISH mail to: DEEP Marine Fisheries Program, P.O. Box 719, Old Lyme, CT 06371 or Fax Number 1-860-434-6150 PLEASE EMAIL AFFIDAVIT AND DIGITAL IMAGES (pictures) to: [email protected] (marine images only) [email protected] (freshwater images only)

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES The Bureau of Natural Resources appreciates all the help it receives from CT Aquatic Resource Education Program (CARE) volunteers each year. Typically, volunteers are from organized groups, but For individuals: Volunteers are trained and certified to teach an intro- there are also some opportunities for individuals. Among the programs ductory course in fishing. Training/Certification is offered twice a year, in in which you may be able to participate: February and June. Certified instructors must participate in one CARE event Atlantic Salmon and Herring Restoration Programs per year. Participation may include teaching or assisting the teaching of a 6 hour class in your hometown or helping out at a special event. A desire For groups: Contact Steve Gephard or Bruce Williams (Fisheries Division) to pass on your angling knowledge and lots of enthusiasm for the sport at 860-434-6043 are all we require to join the program. See page 10 for more! Contact Tom Volunteer Angler Survey — Saltwater Anglers Bourret or Justin Wiggins of the Fisheries Division at 860-663-1656. For individuals: See page 57 for details. Contact David R. Molnar Thanks for your interest in the health (Marine Fisheries Program) at 860-434-6043 or [email protected]. of our fisheries resources!

12 2017 Connecticut Angler’s Guide TROPHY FISH AWARD MINIMUM WEIGHTS The Trophy Fish Award Program recognizes and Note: Minimum Lengths apply to the catch-and-release category only! The rewards angling skill. Successful anglers will receive a: minimum lengths listed below do not apply to the traditional weighed category.

Certificate of Merit CATEGORY SPECIES MINIMUM MINIMUM • Bronze pin for your first fish of merit. WEIGHT LENGTH • Silver pin for your fifth fish of merit. American Eel 3 lbs 35" • Gold pin for your tenth fish of merit or a new state record fish. American Shad 5 lbs 25" Atlantic Salmon1 15 lbs 31" GENERAL RULES: SALTWATER/FRESHWATER FISH Bluegill 12 oz 10" Bowfin 7 lbs 24" • Top Angler Awards are given to Marine and Inland anglers who Brook Trout 2 lbs 17" catch and keep (Harvest Fish), catch and release the largest fish of Brown Bullhead 2 lbs 15" each species categories. Angler of the Year is awarded to the angler Brown Trout 5 lbs 22" with the most species categories. Awards are provided at the annual Calico Bass (Black Crappie) 2 lbs 15" Trophy Fish Award Ceremony. Common Carp 20 lbs 34" • Youth Category is defined as anyone 15 years of age and under. Chain Pickerel 5 lbs 27" • Saltwater entries caught by boats leaving and returning to Connecticut Channel Catfish 4 lbs 22" ports. No overnight stays in another state prior to day(s) of fishing. Fallfish 1.5 lbs 14" • Entries must be filed on the Official Affidavit Form, page 12. Kokanee 1.75 lbs 16" • Fish must be caught by legal methods, played by only one person. Largemouth Bass 6 lbs 22" • Fish must be entered within 30 days of capture. Northern Pike 10 lbs 35" • All Trophy Fish Award Affidavits must be submitted by January 15, 2018 Pumpkinseed 8 oz 9" FRESHWATER Rainbow Trout 4 lbs 21" • Fish caught in hatchery ponds are not eligible. Redbreast Sunfish3 8 oz 9" • Fish must be caught (including catch and release) during Connecti- Rock Bass 12 oz 11" cut’s legal open season. Smallmouth Bass 4 lbs 21" • A clear photograph of the fish must accompany the Affidavit Form. Sunfish Hybrids4 12 oz 10" • Fish may be weighed at any local bait and tackle shop (see page 18). Tiger Trout 2 lbs 17" • Please note: all potential State Record Fish must be weighed on a Tench 4 lbs 18" certified scale and a printout of the scale weight must accompany Walleye 5 lbs 23" the affidavit or an image of the scales certification number, date White Catfish 4 lbs 20" inspected, vendor name and inspectors name. White Perch 2 lbs 15" • The size of a potential trophy fish or state record fish can not exceed White Sucker 3 lbs 15" 2 the maximum length for any given species (e.g. red drum). Yellow Bullhead 2 lbs 15" • For species not listed: trophy fish award subject to Fisheries staff Yellow Perch 1.5 lbs 15" Albacore 30 lbs 40" identification and review. American Eel 3 lbs 35" Atlantic Bonito 4 lbs 20" CATCH AND RELEASE CATEGORY RULES Atlantic Cod 20 lbs 40" • All of the General Rules apply except that the fish does not need to Atlantic Mackerel 4.25 lbs 14" be weighed. A witness must be present. Black Sea Bass 4.5 lbs 20" • A clear photo must accompany the affidavit. This photo must include Blackfish (Tautog) 8 lbs 22" the angler holding the fish and also include the fish next to a mea- Blue Marlin 100 lbs BLE (99") suring (yardstick, ruler, or tape measure) device to clearly show Blue Shark 175 lbs BLE (54") the length of the fish. Bluefin Tuna 400 lbs 60" • The accompanying photo must be taken at the location where the Bluefish 12 lbs 32" fish was caught and released. Cunner 1.5 lbs 12" • Fish can’t be taken from the site and then transported back. Dolphin Fish (Dorado) 20 lbs 36” • BLE = best length estimate for highly migratory species. Hickory Shad 1.75 lbs 18" • Minimum Length (Total Length) = Tip of snout to end of tail. Little Tunny (False Albacore) 5 lbs 24" Mako Shark 175 lbs BLE (54") • Marlin & swordfish—measure from lower jaw to fork in tail. Oyster Toadfish 1 lb 10" • Shark species—minimum length is fork length. Pollock 15 lbs 34" SALTWATER • Fish must be released alive! Scup (Porgy) 2.5 lbs 16" 10" Mantle Length; Squid — 18" Total Length Striped Bass 35 lbs 45" All fish are measured from tip of snout Striped Searobin 3 lbs 18" to end of tail (total length). Summer Flounder (Fluke) 6 lbs 25" Swordfish 100 lbs BLE (47") Thresher Shark 200 lbs BLE (54") Weakfish 5 lbs 24" White Marlin 80 lbs BLE (66") White Perch 1.5 lbs 14" Winter Flounder 2.5 lbs 17" Yellowfin Tuna 150 lbs 60" Blue Crab 8" 8" 1 Includes only hatchery-reared broodstock salmon released into the Broodstock Atlantic Salmon waters and supplemental lakes. Wild Atlantic salmon from the Total Length Connecticut River and Long Island Sound are illegal to possess and not covered under this Trophy Fish Award program. 2 A clear photo of the side of the fish required for identification. www.ct.gov/deep/fishing 13 Connecticut Bait & Tackle Shops WWW.CT.GOV/DEEP/BAITANDTACKLE

TOWN SHOP NAME ADDRESS PHONE TOWN SHOP NAME ADDRESS PHONE Ashford Ralph’s Bait Shop 14 Lakeview Drive 860-487-3544 North Canaan Cannan Valley Shop 11 Railroad St. 860-824-7778 Avon Orvis Avon 380 West Main St. 860-678-7900 North Stonington We-Tu Bait & Tackle 617 Lantern Hill Rd. 860-536-6551 Barkhamsted Uncles Aaron’s Tackle Shack 4 Robertsville Rd. 860-307-7156 Fisherman’s World Inc. 2 Fort Point St. 203-866-1075 Norwalk Bozrah Bob’s Bait 191 Fitchville Rd. 860-885-0292 Hiller Sports 4 New Canaan Ave. 203-857-3474 Branford Branford Bait & Tackle 51 Goodsell Point Rd. 203-315-1313 Norwich Thayer’s Marine & RV 14 Falls Ave. 860-887-8315 Jimmy O’s Bait & Tackle 3389 Fairfield Ave. 203-384-6359 Oakville Mike’s Gun’s & Tackle 141 Main St. 860-274-0371 Lou’s Boat Basin 365 Seaview Ave. 203-336-9809 Old Lyme Black Hall Outfitters 132 Shore Rd. 860-434-9680 Bridgeport Marine Sport Center 2400 Fairfield Avenue 203-335-8646 Ted’s Bait & Tackle 35 Ferry Place 860-388-4882 Old Saybrook Orbit Marine Sports Center Inc. 3273 Fairfield Ave. 203-333-3483 River’s End Tackle 440 Boston Post Rd. 860-388-2283 Brooklyn Brooklyn Trading Post & Academy 106 Tripp Hollow Rd. 860-774-SHOT Bucky’s Bait & Tackle 83 Palmer Neck Rd. 860-599-5972 Pawcatuck Byram Rudy’s Bait 'n' Tackle 242 South Water St. 203-531-3168 Tri-State Bait 88 Westbroad St. 860-495-5218 Clinton Early Bird Bait & Tackle 34 Riverside Drive 203-927-1052 Plainfield B & J’s Bait & Tackle Shop 29 Academy Lane 860-564-7742 Columbia Center Sports of Columbia 3 Orlando Drive 860-228-1666 The Hook and Arrow 135 West Main St. 860-479-5907 Plainville Cornwall Housatonic Meadows Fly Shop 13 Route 7 860-672-6064 Tag’s Tacklebox and Plainville Bait 94 Whiting Street 860-846-0943 Bridge Housatonic River Outfitters, Inc. 24 Kent Rd. 860-672-1010 Pine Meadow Up Country Sport Fishing 352 Main St. 860-379-1952 Cos Cob Sportsman’s Den of Greenwich 33 River Rd. 203-869-3234 Portland Zah’s Water Sports 370 Route 17 860-324-9894 Coventry Cheap Baits 3513 Main St. 860-461-2444 Preston Fish Connection 127 Route 12 860-885-1739 Cromwell Big Little Bait & Tackle 1 School St. 860-997-0891 Rowayton The Bait Shop Inc. 99 Rowayton Ave. 203-853-3811 Candlewood Bait & Tackle 36 Tamarack Ave. 203-743-2221 Salisbury O’Hara’s Landing Marina 254 Twin Lakes Rd. 860-824-7583 Danbury The Valley Angler 56 Padanaram Rd. 203-792-8324 Shelton TC Marine, Bait & Tackle 445 River Rd. 203-513-2786 Orvis Store 432 Boston Post Rd. 203-662-0844 1426 Meriden- Darien Southington Fishin Factory 860-621-8145 Compleat Angler 555 Post Rd. 203-655-9400 Waterbury Tpke. Pete’s Place 124 Jefferson St. 203-356-9383 Dayville Bob’s Place 132 Ballouville Rd. 860-774-2286 Stamford East Canaan Jim’s Bait & Tackle 391 Norfolk Rd. 860-824-5773 Fish Tales Bait & Tackle 379 Shippan Ave. 203-325-4775 Don’s Dock 228 North Water St. 860-535-0077 Eastford B & T Bait Shack 18 Sprague Hill Rd. 860-942-9638 Stonington East Haddam Lakeside Dan’s 18 Shore Rd. 203-623-5439 King Cove Marina & Kayak Center 926 Stonington Rd. (Rt. 1) 860-599-4730 1 475 East Hartford Stratford Bait & Tackle 1076 ⁄2 Stratford Ave. 203-377-8091 East Hartford Cabelas East Hartford 860-290-6200 Stratford Blvd. North The Surfcaster 360 Sniffens Lane 203-610-6965 East Haven Anglers Edge Pro Shop 439 Main St. 203-691-6513 Thomaston Sanzeri’s Bait & Tackle 288 South Main St. 860-283-8654 Ellington Lakeside Deli 99 Stafford Rd. 860-871-8588 Tolland Trapper's Den Taxidermy 152 Tolland Stage Rd. 860-872-1333 Yankee Bait & Tackle 88 Main St. 860-741-5994 Union JT’s Fly Shop 664 Buckley Hwy. 860-684-1575 Enfield Smola’s Flyfishing Guide & Service 483 Hazard Ave. 860-763-1856 Voluntown Mike’s Bait & Tackle 16 Church St. 860-376-4767 Granby South Benson Outfitters 555 Turney Road. 203-400-2838 Wallingford Uncle B’s Bait & Tackle 854 S. Colony Rd. (Rt. 5) 203-294-1180 Greenwich Byram’s Bait & Tackle 35 North Water St. 203-531-5100 Warren Housatonic River Outfitters 24 Kent Rd. 860-672-1010 Groton Ken’s Tackle Shop 213 Thames St. 860-445-6888 Hillyer’s Tackle Shop 374 Rope Ferry Rd. 860-443-7615 Waterford Kent Backcountry Outfitters 8 Old Barn Rd. 860-927-3377 Riverside Grocery 150 Shore Rd. 860-444-0681 Madison Captain Morgan’s Bait & Tackle Marine Center, Rt. 1 203-245-8665 Wauregan Anglers & Adventures LLC 57 Wauregan Road 860-230-3215 Manchester Farr’s Sporting Goods 2 Main St. 860-643-7111 Atlantic Outboard 475 Boston Post Rd. 860-399-6773 Marlborough Frank’s Live Bait 19 West Rd. 860-295-9659 Beach Nut Sports Center 314 Boston Post Rd. 860-399-6534 Westbrook Meriden Lunker City Fishing Specialties 847 Hanover Rd. 203-237-3474 Jack’s Shoreline Bait & Tackle 174 Boston Post Rd. 860-664-9424 Middletown Fishin Factory III 238 East Main St. 860-344-9139 Tidewater Bait & Tackle 362 Boston Post Rd. 860-399-2219 Milford Bobby J’s Bait & Tackle 354 New Haven Ave. 203-876-1495 West Haven Some-Things Fishy 17 Kimberly Avenue #19 203-933-2002 Moodus D & D Bait and Tackle 102 Clark Gates Rd. 860-334-3006 Windsor Locks Joe’s Bass, Bait & Tackle 12 Dickerman Ave. 860-623-7980 Mystic Shaffer’s Boat Livery 106 Mason Island Rd. 860-536-8713 Outdoor Artistry Taxidermy & Bait 351 North Main St. 860-480-5765 Winsted New Haven Dee’s Bait & Tackle 93 Clay St. 203-562-7025 Northwest Sporting Goods & Supply 178 Rowley St. 860-738-8999 AW Marina Bait & Tackle 178 Pequot Ave. 860-443-6076 Sportsmen’s Outpost 415 Wolcott Rd. (Rt. 69) 203-879-1139 New London Diane’s Bait Tackle & Charters 244 Pequot Ave. 860-857-2373 Wolcott 690 Wolcott Road Wolcott Bait & Tackle 203-707-6986 Standard Field & Stream 216 Montauk Ave. 214-886-3220 (Rt. 69) J & B Tackle Co. Inc. 23/25 Smith Ave. 860-739-7419 Woodbridge Baits Motel Fishing & Tackle 26 C Selden St. 203-553-9381 Niantic Mackey’s Bait & Tackle Shop 158 West Main St. 860-739-2677 Noank Wild Bill’s Action Sports & Tackle 93 Marsh Rd. 860-536-6648

If we missed your shop or you have changes to your information on this list, please contact David R. Molnar, [email protected], or call 860-434-6043.

REMINDER TO ANGLERS! FISHERIES ADVISORY Fishing in or Casting into Permitted Swim Areas is Prohibited State regulations prohibit fishing in or into a swim area that’s been permitted by DEEP. Additionally, vessels COUNCIL cannot be operated within a permitted swim area, and there’s a 100 foot “no-wake” zone around the perimeter. The Fisheries Advisory Council (FAC) Swim areas that have been permitted by DEEP will be marked by white buoys with orange markings, is a group of dedicated citizens from all and there should be a permit number posted on the buoys. They may or may not have small orange regions of the state working together barrier floats to further demarcate the area. for fish and fishing in Connecticut. Should questions arise concerning the validity of the swim area (no permit numbers or the area For more information about the FAC, appears to have been changed / enlarged or keeps moving), please contact DEEP’s Boating Division please call 860-424-3474. at 860-434-8638.

14 2017 Connecticut Angler’s Guide DISCARDED FISHING LINE AND OTHER TRASH

Anglers are reminded that any person who intentionally dis- cards fishing line or other litter in the waters of the state, on public property of the state or on private property not owned by such person is subject to a fine under section 22a-250 of the general statutes. Each year, DEEP’s Wildlife Dead osprey found hanging from its nest in Old Lyme, CT. Division receives numerous reports of birds and other ani- Discarded fishing line, which is often picked up by ospreys mals that have been injured or to place in their nests, was killed after getting tangled in wrapped around the bird’s neck. our trash. Discarded fishing line, hooks, lures and weights are often left behind by unthink-

ing anglers at fishing sites, and Photo courtesy of long-time DEEP Wildlife have caused serious injury, ill- Division volunteer Hank Golet, who took ness or death to wildlife. Please the image prior to removing the dead bird. dispose of these items and all other trash properly. For line recycling locations, go to: Donovan Cowser with his trophy summer flounder http://www.ct.gov/deep/lib/deep/wildlife/pdf_files/outreach/fishinglinerecycle.pdf from Ferry Landing State Park in Old Lyme.

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WHAT TO DO WHEN APPROACHED BY AN ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION POLICE OFFICER In the fall of 2016, our officers were very busy take that into account when they encounter vio- states, so if Connecticut suspends your privi- enforcing recreational fisheries laws and regula- lations. From July through December, of the 165 lege to hunt and fish, most other states in the tions in the marine district. The majority of these cases involving marine fisheries violations, our northeast and elsewhere in the country may cases were for violation of minimum length sizes officers issued 121 warnings. In the remaining recognize and enforce that suspension. and keeping over the daily bag limit of certain cases, violators were primarily issued infraction Please remember to wear a life jacket when species. Our officers realize that the recreational tickets that are payable by mail. Even though you are out on the water. It is mandatory to marine fisheries regulations often change annu- violators are noticed at the time a ticket is being wear a PFD by anyone in a manually propelled ally, especially creel or minimum sizes, and they issued, I wanted to remind our readers that for vessel from October 1 through May 31 and for wildlife violations, if the fine all children under 13 years old on a vessel that is paid or if they go to court is under way. There are many options now that Sgt. Steve Stanko and K9 Ruger and are found guilty, the are comfortable and do not interfere with your with seized Striped Bass. Agency may suspend your fishing enjoyment, so please put one on. It can privileges to hunt and fish. save your life! The suspension guidelines are published on our web- We encourage the citizens of our State to assist site. In 2013, Connecticut us with our mission of protecting the State’s entered the Interstate natural resources by taking an active role in Wildlife Violators Compact. reporting fishing and game violations to our This compact allows all 24 hour toll free number at 1-800-842-4357. member states to revoke Thank you and good luck! license privileges from other Colonel Kyle Overturf member states for offenses Director, State Environmental of a similar nature. Most Conservation Police states in the northeast, except Massachusetts and New Jersey are member

Kids Get Your Youth Fishing Passport! The perfect way for you to introduce your aspiring angler to the many benefits of fishing. TheFREE Youth Fishing Passport program is a perfect way to spend quality time together. Getting your passport is easy, sign up online using the sportsmen licensing system www.ct.gov/deep/sportsmenlicensing and then start fishing! Visit www.ct.gov/deep/yfp for details about: • 2 great fishing activities • Sponsors offering discounts or free items • DEEP's FREE “Learn to Fish” classes

For more information, contact: Mike Beauchene at 860-424-4185 or [email protected] Fish Consumption Advisory

ARE THE FISH I CATCH SAFE TO EAT? 877-458-FISH For More Information The summary of advisories issued in the past by the Connecticut Depart- Including the fish consumption fact sheet, a special fact sheet for preg- ment of Public Health and Department of Energy & Environmental nant women, foreign language summaries, and for updates visit the Protection is updated annually and included as a reminder to anglers. Department of Public Health (CTDPH) website at: www.ct.gov/dph/fish These advisories apply to recreationally-caught fish from Connecticut or call CTDPH. waters. Individuals in the high risk group should be particularly careful • Have health questions: call CTDPH at 860-509-7740 or toll-free at in their fish consumption. 877-458-FISH (3474). Proper cleaning and cooking methods include: removing the skin, • Have fishing questions: call CTDEEP at 860-424-FISH (3474). “lateral line” area, belly flaps and dark meat, and broiling or grilling. These methods can reduce PCB levels by 50%.

ADVISORY WATERBODY FISH SPECIES HIGH RISK GROUP a LOW RISK GROUP b CONTAMINANT

All Fresh Waterbodies Trout c, Sunfish No Limits on Consumption No Limits on Consumption — Statewide (See more restrictive advice for Freshwater Fish specific waterbodies listed below) All other fish One meal per month One meal per week Mercury

Dodge Pond, Wyassup Lake, Largemouth Bass, Do not eat One meal per month Mercury Lake McDonough, Silver Lake (Berlin) Smallmouth Bass, Pickerel

Trout, Catfish, Eels, Carp, Do not eat Do not eat PCBs Northern Pike Largemouth Bass, Do not eat One meal per 2 months PCBs Smallmouth Bass Housatonic River above Derby Dam (except as listed below for lakes on Bass, White Perch Do not eat One meal per 2 months PCBs Housatonic River) Bluegill, Bullheads, Fallfish One meal per month One meal per month PCBs Panfishd except for White Perch, Bluegill and One meal per month One meal per week PCBs Bullheads Trout, Catfish, Eels, Carp, Do not eat Do not eat PCBs Northern Pike Smallmouth Bass, Do not eat One meal per 2 months PCBs Lakes on Housatonic River: Largemouth Bass (Lillinonah, Zoar, Housatonic) White Perch, Fallfish, One meal per month One meal per month PCBs Bullheads Specific Panfishd except for White Freshwater Fish One meal per month One meal per week PCBs Perch and Bullheads Quinnipiac River All species One meal per month One meal per month PCBs (Gorge to Hanover Pond in Meriden) Carp Do not eat One meal per 2 months PCBs Connecticut River Catfish Do not eat One meal per month PCBs

Versailles, Papermill Ponds & connecting All species Do not eat Do not eat Mercury, PCBs section of Little River (Sprague)

Furnace Brook (Cornwall) Trout One meal per month One meal per month PCBs

Blackberry River downstream of Smallmouth Bass One meal per month One meal per month PCBs “Blast Furnace” (North Canaan)

Konkapot River (North Canaan) White Sucker Do not eat One meal per month Mercury

Brewster Pond (Stratford) Catfish & Bullheads Do not eat Do not eat Chlordane

Union Pond (Manchester) Carp, Catfish, Bass Do not eat Do not eat Chlordane

Striped Bass over 25" Do not eat One meal per month PCBs

Bluefish over 25" Do not eat One meal per month PCBs Long Island Sound and connected rivers Specific e Saltwater Bluefish 13–25" One meal per month One meal per month PCBs Species Weakfish One meal per month One meal per month PCBs Mill River (Fairfield) (excluding Southport Blue Crab Do not eat Do not eat Lead Harbor) a High Risk Group includes pregnant women, women planning pregnancy within one year, nursing women and children under age 6. b Low Risk Group includes everyone not in the High Risk Group. c Most trout are not part of the advisory and are safe to eat. However, the High Risk Group to eat no more than one large trout (over 15") per month and should not eat trout from the Housatonic River. d Panfish include Yellow Perch, White Perch, Calico Bass (Crappie), Rock Bass, bullhead, and sunfish. e Bluefish (including snapper blues) under 13" are not on the advisory because they have very low contamination. 17 Header Aquatic Help stop the spread! A number of aquatic invasive species are established in Connecticut and more are threatening Invasive to invade. The Angler’s Guide again focuses on the zebra mussel, as it continues to expand its Species distribution in Connecticut since 2010.

Zebra Mussels in Connecticut Their known distribution (as of January, 2013) and the susceptibility of additional Connecticut water bodies to colonization by zebra mussels. Note that since 2013 zebra mussels have widened their distribution in the Housatonic River between Massachusetts and Lake Lillinonah, with ≥≥ZEBRA MUSSEL “thousands” found at Bulls Bridge and some at the Rocky River power facility in New Milford. Zebra mussels are now found in a number of The Rocky River facility is the connection between Candlewood Lake and the Housatonic River. locations scattered throughout the Housa- tonic River and its impoundments. Until late 2010 when adult zebra mussels (Dreissena poly- morpha) were found in Lake Zoar and Lake Lil- linonah, zebra mussels had been found (1998) in CT only in East Twin Lake and West Twin Lake (Salisbury). Since 2010, adult mussels have also been found in Lake Housatonic and free- floating juveniles (veligers) have been sampled at several sites in the river in Connecticut from the Massachusetts line downstream to Lake Lillinonah. Surveys completed in late 2012 con- firm the continuing presence of zebra mussels adults and free-floating juveniles (veligers) in the Housatonic River and its three major impoundments in Connecticut. One possible source of these mussels is downstream migration from Laurel Lake in Lee/Lenox, Massachusetts. Its short outlet stream drains directly into the Housatonic River. In 2009, an abundant population of zebra mussels was documented in Laurel Lake. Adult mussels were also found that year in the Housatonic River in Massachusetts downstream of the confluence with Laurel Lake’s outlet stream. Since then additional populations have been found at sites in the river in Massachusetts, and more recently, and Connecticut. The non-native zebra mussel was first found in North America in Lake St. Clair (Michigan/ Ontario) in 1988. Since then they have spread throughout the Great Lakes, the Mississippi River system and most of New York State including Lake Champlain and the Hudson River, and then into a number of western and southwestern states. Zebra mussels have fairly specific water chemistry requirements and are limited to waters with moderate to high calcium concentrations and pH. In Connecticut, suitable habitat for zebra mussels is mostly limited to a number of water bodies in western portions of the state. Under highly favorable conditions, this invasive mussel can disrupt aquatic ecosystems and is notorious In 2011 and 2012, Biodrawversity LLC. conducted zebra mussel surveys in northwest Con- for clogging water intakes and fouling boat hulls necticut, including the upper Housatonic River, to determine the presence or absence of zebra and engine cooling water systems. mussels. Selected physical, chemical, and biological attributes of the surveyed water bodies Zebra mussels and other aquatic invasive spe- were also documented and combined with existing data to develop a risk assessment for those cies can be inadvertently spread by boats, gear water bodies. Additionally, a risk assessment was developed that included other water bodies and bait buckets. Easy “Clean, Drain & Dry” in the state for which relevant water chemistry data were available. Above is a map showing methods to help prevent their spread can be the susceptibility of these water bodies (plus some close by NY waters) to colonization by zebra found on the next page. mussels. All areas assessed as being at being at medium to high risk of colonization by zebra mussels are located in western Connecticut. (Figure adapted from Biodrawversity LLC. report).

18 2017 Connecticut Angler’s Guide YOU CAN HELP! ≥≥Remove all aquatic organisms, ≥ CLEAN, DRAIN, DRY. You can help prevent the spread of problem mud & debris! livewell motor & species by following these simple suggestions. propeller BEFORE LEAVING A BOAT LAUNCH anchor CLEAN—Inspect your boat, trailer and equipment. Remove and discard all aquatic plants and animals, mud and debris you may have picked up while on the water. DRAIN—Completely drain all water from the boat, including bilge water, livewells and engine cooling systems. AT HOME hitch hull axle trim tabs DRY—Dry anything that came in contact with the water (boats, trailers, trailering vehicle) for at least one week. or The full report prepared for DEEP by Biodrawversity LLC can be found WASH—Rinse boat, trailer and equipment with hot water (high online at www.ct.gov/deep/fishing. pressure if possible). A bleach solution can be used to clean Some of the Invasives livewells. Dispose of all rinse materials properly! Found in Connecticut REMEMBER Many boaters and anglers are familiar with freshwater invasive plants, Do not dump your bait bucket or release live bait! Avoid intro- in Connecticut these include: ducing unwanted plants and animals. Unless your bait was obtained on site, dispose of it in a suitable trash container. EURASIAN WATER MILFOIL was first found in Connecticut in 1979 and has been documented in a number of locations in Connecticut as Do not transport fish, other animals or plants between water well as the Connecticut River. bodies. Release caught fish, other animals and plants only into the waters from which they came. VARIABLE LEAF MILFOIL was first discovered in Connecticut in 1936 IT’S THE LAW! (CGS 15-180, CGS 22a-381d) and can now be found in a number of locations throughout Connecticut. Boaters must inspect their vessel for vegetation and listed invasive HYDRILLA was first discovered in 1989 and can now be found in a invertebrates (zebra mussel, quagga mussel, Chinese mitten crab, few locations scattered throughout the state. Very aggressive and can New Zealand mud snail, Asian clam, rusty crayfish) and properly outcompete native and invasive species. See page 24 for more informa- remove and dispose of any vegetation or invasives before trans- tion on hydrilla in Connecticut. porting the vessel. You can be fined $95 per violation. FANWORT was first observed in Connecticut in 1937 and is now widely The importation, transportation, sale, purchase, possession, distributed throughout the state. cultivation or distribution of a number of invasive plants including the following aquatic plants is prohibited: WATER CHESTNUT was first discovered in Connecticut in 1999 and can be found in a number of locations throughout the state including —— Curly leaved pondweed, Fanwort, Eurasian water-milfoil, scattered sites along the Connecticut River, several tributaries and Variable water milfoil, Water chestnut, Egeria, Hydrilla, Com- connected. Water chestnut appears to be expanding its distribution in mon reed, Purple loosestrife, Pond water-starwort, Parrot- Connecticut. Annual plant that spreads via sharp, spiny fruits. feather, Brittle water-nymph, American water lotus, Yellow floating heart, Giant salvinia, Yellow iris, Watercress, Onerow New arrivals to Connecticut include: yellowcress. Violators can be fined $50 per plant! (2011) DIDYMO is a freshwater alga that under suitable conditions can form extensive blooms. Prefers cold, low-nutrient streams. In Connecti- cut, didymo has been found in the upper West Branch Farmington River. WEBSITES OF INTEREST (2012) CHINESE MITTEN CRAB A juvenile Chinese mitten crab was These websites can provide a good start to learning more about Aquatic collected from the Mianus River in Greenwich. This is the first con- nuisance species. firmed report of this invasive in CT. This crab reproduces in saltwater but spends most of its life in freshwater. • National Invasive Species Council: www.invasivespecies.gov A Chinese mitten crab captured at • Invasive Plant Atlas of New England: Chesapeake Beach, MD in 2007 www.eddmaps.org/ipane (image courtesy of the Smithsonian • ANS Task Force: Environmental Research Center). http://www.anstaskforce.gov • Northeast Aquatic Nuisance Species Panel: http://www.northeastans.org More information on these and other invasive species in • Protect Your Waters: Connecticut can be found online at: www.protectyourwaters.net www.ct.gov/deep/invasivespecies. • Connecticut Sea Grant: www.seagrant.uconn.edu Please prevent new introductions • Connecticut Invasive Plant Working Group: of invasive plants and animals; www.cipwg.uconn.edu CLEAN, DRAIN, DRY your boat and gear. • USGS Nonindigenous Aquatic Species: http://nas.er.usgs.gov www.ct.gov/deep/fishing 19 INLAND FISHING

INVASIVE SPECIES ALERT INFORMACIÓN DISPONIBLE EN — COVENTRY LAKE & ESPAÑOL RELACIONADA CON CONNECTICUT RIVER LA PESCA EN CONNECTICUT In 2016, DEEP funded management efforts (including a series of sur- — WWW.CT.GOV/DEEP/CARE veys and a herbicide treatment) with the goal of eradication hydrilla Los folletos de la pesca en aguas dulces y aguas saladas fuerón tradu- in Coventry Lake. It is expected that this management (surveys, cidos al español para la distribución a la comunidad hispana residente possible herbicide treatments) will be ongoing for several more years. en Connecticut. El objetivo de los folletos de pesca en español es para Unfortunately, also in 2016, hydrilla was found in the Connecticut ayudar a fomentar, aumentar, y promover la participación hispana en River. First in a difficult to access portion of Keeney Cove in June, esta actividad. and then in September DEEP staff observed several patches of Somos afortunados en Connecticut por el gran abastecimiento de peces hydrilla mixed in among the aquatic plants growing in the mainstem . La población de Connecticut tiene la oportunidad a pescar a no más river at Glastonbury’s Riverfront Park and Boathouse. Based on the de 5 millas de su residencia. Las aguas dulces de Connecticut le ofrece observed current growth, it appears that hydrilla has been in the river pescar peces tales como la Trucha, la Lobina, el Lucio Norteamericano, for a couple of years and it is likely to be dispersed downstream of y el Panfish. Si su preferancia es pez de agua salada, las aguas de Hartford. As a result, eradication is likely not practical. Connecticut le ofrece pesca peces tales como la Lobina Rayada, Summer All resource users should take extra care to check and clean their Flounder, Anjona, y Porgy. ¡Vamonos a Pescar! boats (including canoes, kayaks and rowing sculls), trailers, and fishing equipment before leaving the boat launch, or leaving the lakeshore.

FISHWAYS AND FISHING BE A RESPONSIBLE ANGLER Fishing is prohibited in the area immediately downstream or upstream of a fishway, generally for a distance of 250 feet from the fishway. Note Protecting both the resource and your access to the resource requires that at some fishways, this distance may vary from 250 feet. more than simply knowing and following the fishing regulations! At locations where the distance from the fishway does differ from 250 Respect Private feet, the boundaries of the “no-fishing” area will be as posted by DEEP Property (look for signs and/or large rocks painted red marking the boundaries). • Do not cast onto docks or into Anglers with questions about the “no-fishing” zones around any of permitted swim areas (when the over 60 fishways in the state should contact DEEP’s Diadromous in doubt, cast elsewhere). Fisheries Restoration Program (Fisheries Division) at 860-434-6043. • Ask permission before fishing from shore, or wading on private property. DO YOUR PART FOR WETLAND Don’t Litter, Don’t Pollute CONSERVATION — BUY A • Keep your boat and motor properly maintained. • Retrieve all lures and gear. CONNECTICUT MIGRATORY • Don’t release live bait. BIRD CONSERVATION STAMP! • Leave your fishing area cleaner than you found it! The Connecticut Migratory Bird Conservation Be A Safe Boater Stamp Program provides the sole source of funding for many of the wetland projects that are • Obey boating regulations, and check your safety gear frequently! conducted in the state. These projects benefit Be A Good Neighbor the approximately 274 fish, birds, mammals, amphibians, and reptiles of the state that rely • Treat fellow anglers, other recreational users and property upon clean, healthy wetlands. All waterfowl hunters are required to owners with courtesy. purchase a Migratory Bird Conservation Stamp, but those interested • Always be willing to share both the resource and your knowledge. in wetland conservation also buy stamps. Stamps may be purchased for $17.00 wherever hunting and fishing licenses are sold and at And always use common sense and be courteous! www.ct.gov/deep/sportsmenlicensing.

20 2017 Connecticut Angler’s Guide Inland District Statewide Species Regulations

DETERMINING REGULATIONS listed for a waterbody, statewide regulations apply Lower River/Tidal Waters A summary of the Statewide Species Open Seasons, for seasons, methods, and/or limits. Designated rivers & streams with no closed sea- Legal Methods and Length & Daily Creel Limits is son. These include the entire Connecticut and listed in the table on page 21. The regulations on Unless otherwise indicated in the Lakes & Ponds Thames Rivers, and downstream portions of the many water bodies differ from the statewide and Rivers & Streams listings: Coginchaug, Farmington, Housatonic, Matta- regulations. • Lakes and ponds are open year-round. besset, Mystic, Naugatuck, Niantic, Quinnipiac, • Rivers & streams are open from 6:00 a.m. on Salmon and Yantic rivers. Check individual water- Use this two-step process to determine regulations the 2nd Saturday in April through the last day body listing for boundaries. on a specific waterbody: of February (Closed to all fishing from March For more information on Legal Methods & 1. Check the table on page 21 for the general state- 1st to 6:00 a.m. on the 2nd Saturday in April). Gear, Length Limits, Creel & Possession Lim- wide regulations. its and Species, refer to the definitions on pages 2. Refer to the specific waterbody in the alphabetical The open seasons listed in this table do not 26–27. listings of Lakes & Ponds (pages 32–41) or Rivers apply in areas closed to all fishing during a & Streams (pages 44–52) for special site-specific period of the year. Note: Regulations for several marine species found regulations. If no site-specific regulations are in the Inland District are subject to change.

MINIMUM DAILY SPECIES NOTES LEGAL METHODS AREA OPEN SEASON* LENGTH CREEL LIMIT Taking of anadromous alewife & blueback herring from all Connecticut waters is prohibited. Emergency closure is in effect. See page 28 for more information. Exception: Landlocked alewife only may be taken from specific lakes. See page 28 for list of lakes. Methods, seasons Daily creel limit is for both & creel limits for these lakes are as follows: Alewife/Blueback Herring species in aggregate. Lakes & Ponds Angling Open year-round* No minimum length 25 (see page 32) Lakes & Ponds Scoop Net April 1 – June 15 No minimum length 25 (see page 32) Spearing and bow and arrow use prohibited in streams or stream sections stocked with Angling, Icefishing, Bobbing, trout. Spearing prohibited in all All areas Open year-round* 9" 25 American Eel Bow and Arrow, Spearing lakes & ponds. The taking of elver eel, glass eel and silver eel is prohibited. Connecticut River Harvest of American (including shad allowed only in the Angling Open year-round No minimum length 6 American Shad tributaries open Connecticut River system. year-round) Atlantic Salmon Taking of Atlantic Salmon is prohibited. Exception: Atlantic Salmon Broodstock Fisheries (see page 28) Lakes & Ponds Open year-round* 12" 6 Largemouth Bass Daily creel limit is for both Angling, Icefishing Rivers & Streams Open year-round* No minimum length 6 & Smallmouth Bass species in aggregate. Connecticut River Open year-round 12" 6 Spearing and bow and arrow use prohibited in streams or Carp, Bowfin, Tench, Angling, Icefishing, Bobbing, stream sections stocked with All areas Open year-round* No minimum length No limit Bow and Arrow, Spearing Suckers & Lampreys trout. Spearing prohibited in all lakes & ponds. Lakes & Ponds Open year-round* 15" 6 Chain Pickerel — Angling, Icefishing Rivers & Streams Open year-round* No minimum length No limit Daily creel limit is in aggregate Angling, Icefishing, All areas Open year-round* No minimum length 6 Hickory Shad with American shad. Scoop Net

2nd Saturday in April – — Angling, Icefishing All areas No minimum length 5 Kokanee last day in February

Northern Pike — Angling, Icefishing All areas Open year-round* 26" 2 Panfish** Except White Perch, see below. Angling, Icefishing, Bobbing All areas Open year-round* No minimum length No limit Taking of smelt in rivers & Angling & Icefishing Lakes & Ponds Open year-round* No minimum length 50 Smelt streams is prohibited. Striped Bass — Angling All areas Open year-round* 28" 1 Sturgeon, Burbot Taking of sturgeon and burbot prohibited. Trout Lakes & Ponds, 2nd Saturday in April – No minimum length 5 Rivers & Streams last day in February (Brook, Brown, Lake, — Angling, Icefishing Lower Rivers/ Rainbow, Tiger & Open year-round* 15" 2 other hybrids) Tidal Waters Connecticut River (including Coves & Tributaries) Open year-round* 7" 30 Tidally influenced White Perch — Angling, Icefishing, Bobbing Rivers & Streams Lakes & Ponds All other Rivers & Open year-round* No minimum length No limit Streams Walleye — Angling, Icefishing All areas Open year-round* 18" 2 * Except in areas closed to all fishing during a period of the year. **Yellow Perch, White Perch, Calico Bass (Crappie), Rock Bass, bullheads, all species of catfish, and all species of sunfish. www.ct.gov/deep/fishing 21 Trout Maps

Trout fishing has a long and storied history in TROUT MANAGEMENT WATERS Connecticut. As one of the most popular fish, the majority of trout fishing is supported through production at one of our three state fish hatcheries. Each year over 100 lakes and ponds and 200 rivers and streams are stocked with trout. Due to their popularity, DEEP has implemented several strategies to provide high quality trout fishing to the greatest number of anglers. TROUT MANAGEMENT WATERS In an effort to improve trout fishing, several sections of rivers and streams and lakes and ponds have special regulations on season, creel limits, and size limits. These regulations vary and can be found in this guide. These waters are also stocked with more and/or larger trout. In most waters, trout are managed through statewide regulations (no minimum size limit, 5-fish possession limit). Trout management regulations are designed to improve as they optimize fishing quality under heavy fishing pressure. Trout management areas (rivers/ streams) are open to fishing year round and the season on trout management lakes is extended until March 31. WILD TROUT MANAGEMENT WILD TROUT MANAGEMENT Wild trout (self-sustaining populations) are important renewable resource that add quality and diversity to Connecticut’s trout stream fisheries. Wild trout are often more colorful, feisty, and flavorful than stocked trout and are conserved through special regulations identified by Wild Trout Management Class. Class 1 = Catch and release only, open year- round, use of a single-hook artificial lures or flies only. Class 2 = Two (2) trout per angler per day limit, trout must be 12” or larger to keep from opening day to last day of February. Class 3 = Five (5) fish per angler per day limit, trout must be 9” or larger to keep from opening day to last day of February.

22 2017 Connecticut Angler’s Guide TROUT PARKS TROUT PARKS Trout Parks are located in easily accessible areas to enhance trout fishing opportunities for young anglers and novice anglers as well as for those with mobility challenges. The fre- quent stockings, generally between Opening Day and Memorial Day, will greatly increase an angler’s chance of catching a fish, making it a more attractive "fishing hole", particularly to children and families. The daily creel limit in trout parks is two (2) fish per person per day. TROPHY TROUT Places where a majority of the fish are stocked at a larger size, 12 inches or larger. Creel limits are also reduced from five (5) fish per day to two (2) fish per day.

NEW FOR 2017 — ONLINE CONNECTICUT DEEP’S INTERACTIVE TROUT STOCKING MAP AT WWW.CT.GOV/DEEP/ The official bimonthly magazine of the Department of Energy & Environmental TROUTSTOCKINGMAP Protection’s Bureau of Natural Resources An interactive map with near real-time information on stocked waters For $8.00 a year, you can receive our award-winning magazine! (including locations and the number of days since the most recent stock- Fill out a subscription card today. ing event) and improved locational information about Connecticut’s trout stocked waters using the latest in mapping technology. Subscribe today to Connecticut Wildlife, the Department of Energy & Environmental Protection’s official bimonthly fish and wildlife publication.

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www.ct.gov/deep/fishing 23 Warmwater Fisheries

BASS MANAGEMENT WATERS BASS MANAGEMENT WATERS Bass fishing is very popular in Connecticut and Largemouth or Smallmouth can be found in almost every lake or pond. In most waters, bass are managed through statewide regulations (a standard 12-inch minimum length limit, 6-fish possession limit). However, in some “Bass Management Lakes” special length and creel limits designed to improve fishing by restricting harvest and allowing more bass to reach a memorable size have been put into place. Slot limits are designed to protect larger, more desirable fish from harvest, while allowing anglers to harvest smaller fish that are often overabundant. Harvesting surplus small bass reduces competition for food and allows the remaining bass to grow faster and larger.

DAILY CATEGORY PROTECTED CREEL SIZE LIMIT 6 Bass; Only 1 Trophy Bass 12–18 Inches fish 18 inches (slot limit) or over Trophy Bass Less than 1 Bass (minimum) 18 inches 6 Bass; Only Big Bass 12–16 Inches 2 bass 16 (slot limit) inches or over WALLEYE AND NORTHERN PIKE Big Bass Less than 2 Bass (minimum length) 16 inches Riverine Bass Less than 6 Bass (Stanley Tract Area) 12 inches Riverine Bass (Bulls Bridge Area Catch and Release only and Tenmile River)

WALLEYE AND NORTHERN PIKE Walleye and Northern Pike Fisheries offer a unique opportunity to catch a very large predatory fish. Stocked as juveniles to help control over-abundant forage fish, Walleye and Pike take a few years to grow to impressive size. Over the years, anglers have enjoyed catching quality size fish, especially through the ice.

24 2017 Connecticut Angler’s Guide

Inland Regulations & Definitions

The following provisions are taken from the inland district sport fishing DOWNRIGGER A device, supplemental to a fishing line, used to deploy, regulations, and do not apply to taking fish from licensed commercial via an electric or handpowered winch, reel or spool that projects over hatcheries, private waters legally registered with DEEP, or to commercial the side or stern of a boat and is used as a hoist, main line and terminal fishing in the inland district. Information on commercial fishing in the weight, one or more fishing lines to a desired depth in the water column. inland and marine districts is available on request. FISHHOOK or HOOK A curved, pointed device, with or without barb, used ANGLING Fishing with hook and line, which must be personally attended. to catch fish. Hooks may be single, double or treble and each point shall No more than three lines, with or without rods, may be used at one time, be considered as a single hook. except in the designated Trout Management Areas, Wild Trout Management FISHING OR SPORT FISHING Taking or attempting to take fish. In the Inland Areas, Trout Parks, Sea-run Trout Streams and Trophy Trout Streams where District, fishing is limited to angling, bow and arrow fishing, bobbing, the maximum number of lines that can be used is two, with or without rods. ice fishing, snagging or snatching, spearing, scoop netting, and taking or BAIT Any animal or vegetable, or their parts, living or dead, used with attempting to take fish by hand. a hook for the purpose of attracting and catching fish. Any fish legally FLOAT (BOBBER) Any buoyant object attached to a fishing line. No floats acquired, except largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, chain pickerel, north- may be used unless personally attended. ern pike, trout, salmon, carp and goldfish may be used as bait. FLY A single or double hook dressed with hair, feathers, tinsel, thread, BAIT SPECIES The following species of fish, amphibians, aquatic insects yarn or similar material to which no bait, spinner, spoon, plug or other and crustaceans may be taken by sport fishermen for personal use (a rec- device is added. reational fishing license is required), but may only be sold if taken under an inland commercial bait license (Go to www.ct.gov/deep/fishinglicense and FLY FISHING Angling with the use of a fly reel, fly rod, fly line, leader and use the “Open-Access License application” link). a fly or flies. Extra weight may be built into the fly in its construction, as • Bait species: Common shiner, golden shiner, fallfish, creek chub, spot- in a weighted nymph, and additional weight may be attached to the leader tail shiner, bridle shiner, blacknose dace, longnose dace, pearl dace, or line. The use of strike indicators is permitted. bluntnose minnow, fathead minnow, cutlips minnow, chub sucker, GAFF A spear or hook, with or without a handle, used for holding or lift- white sucker, killifish, mummichog, Atlantic & tidewater silverside, ing fish. The use of a gaff to land or assist in landing a fish is prohibited sand lance, frogs (except northern leopard frog), crayfish (except rusty in the inland district. crayfish), perch bugs, hellgrammites and mayfly nymphs. • The legal methods for taking the bait species listed above are as follows: HAND-HELD JIG A rod, jig stick or line held in the hand used for fishing —— Rivers & streams: Bait species may be taken at any time with seines through the ice. not over 15 ft. long and 4 ft. deep, bait traps not over 20 inches long ICE FISHING Not more than six tip-ups, floats (bobbers), similar devices, and 15 inches in diameter, and umbrella nets not over 4 ft. by 4 ft. or hand-held jigs or any combination thereof not exceeding six in the —— Lakes & ponds: Bait species may be taken at any time with bait aggregate may be used at one time. Not more than three baited hooks, traps not over 20 inches long and 15 inches in diameter and umbrella with or without attractors, or three ice flies, or three artificial lures, or any nets not over 4 ft. by 4 ft. Seines shall not be used in lakes and ponds combination thereof not exceeding three in the aggregate may be used except those designated by the DEEP as open to commercial taking with each tip-up, float (bobber), or similar device or hand-held jig. Devices of bait. Where posted, taking, use or possession of fish as bait is must be personally attended. The name and address of the user must be prohibited in lakes and ponds. legibly stamped on or attached to all devices. —— All inland waters: During the open season for fishing, the species listed above may also be taken by hand, angling and scoop net. INLAND DISTRICT Is the area inland of the demarcation lines as listed on page 54. BARBLESS HOOK A curved, pointed device, without a barb, used to catch fish. Barbless hooks may be single, double or treble, and each point must be LEADCORE LINE A fishing line constructed with a metal core. without a barb. For the purposes of this regulation, hooks manufactured MINIMUM LENGTH Measured from the tip of the snout to the end of the with a barb are considered barbless if the barb has been bent down to the tail. No person shall possess any fish less than the lengths specified and hook, broken off or otherwise made ineffective. any fish less than the minimum length, shall, without avoidable injury, BOBBING Fishing with a ball or mass of worms or other bait attached to a be immediately returned to the water from which taken. hookless line held in the hand or a line attached to a rod held in the hand. PANFISH Includes yellow perch, white perch, calico bass, rock bass, bull- BOW AND ARROW FISHING Common carp, bowfin, tench, white suckers, heads, all species of catfish, and all species of sunfish. American eels and sea lampreys may be taken with a bow and arrow. POSSESSION LIMIT The total number of fish of any species or species group These species may be taken by archery in streams and stream sections that may be possessed by one person either on the person, on the waters not stocked with trout, and in lakes and ponds, and only taken during the of the state, the shores of these waters, or in any type of vehicle and may open season for fishing in those waters. Use of crossbows is prohibited. A not exceed the creel limits for one day, as listed in this pamphlet. Fish fishing license is required. so possessed shall be intact to the extent that neither the heads nor tails CAST NET A net weighted at the edges which is cast out over bait to capture have been removed. Note that this does not restrict the number of legally it in shallow water. The use of cast nets is prohibited in inland waters. acquired fish that may be kept in storage at home. CHILDREN’S FISHING AREA Angling in such areas is restricted to children SCOOP NET A manually operated, flexible mesh net attached to a hoop under sixteen years of age when posted as such. which is attached to a handle. The hoop may not be over 36 inches across the widest point and the mesh bag may not be more than 36 inches in CLOSED SEASON That period of time during which all fishing is prohibited depth at its deepest point. The use of any such net constructed of metal in the area specified. mesh or stiff plastic mesh is prohibited. DAILY CREEL LIMIT The quantity or number of fish of a species or species SEINE NET A net weighted at the bottom, with top floats, that is used to group that can be taken by an individual angler during the period from encircle fish. 12:01 a.m. to midnight.

26 2017 Connecticut Angler’s Guide SET LINE A line with one or both ends secured to the shore, or to a fixed or SPEARING The use of any pointed instrument, with or without barbs, pro- buoyant object in the water which is used for fishing and is not personally pelled solely by hand. Common carp, bowfin, tench, American eels, white attended. Use of set lines in the inland district is prohibited. suckers and sea lampreys may be taken by spearing in streams or sections of streams not stocked with trout during the open seasons for fishing in such SLOT LENGTHS Length limits designated to reduce or increase the taking waters. Prohibited in lakes and ponds. Underwater spear fishing and the use of fish by anglers. of any type of spear gun is prohibited in all waters within the Inland District. • Protected slot lengths: Lengths between which fish may not be kept by anglers. STRIKE INDICATOR Means a brightly colored, highly visible tab, sleeve or • Open slot lengths: Lengths between which fish may be kept by anglers. bead or similar material used in fly fishing. Such devices may be attached to the line or leader when used in areas restricted to fly fishing only. SNAGGING or SNATCHING The taking of fish by foul hooking, that is hooking fish in any part of the body other than the mouth. Snagging is pro- TAKE or TAKING Killing, capturing or otherwise rendering into possession, hibited in all waters in the Inland District except that, in streams open any fish or bait species, or attempting to kill, capture or rendering into pos- to fishing throughout the year, menhaden, alewives and blueback (glut) session, or assisting in taking or attempting to take any fish or bait species. herring may be taken by these methods. Anglers are reminded that there TROUT Include brook (charr), brown, lake, and rainbow trout and their currently is an emergency ban on the taking of anadromous alewife and hybrids. blueback herring (see page 28).

DISABLED ACCESS These areas in the Inland District provide fishing access with primary use intended for persons with disabilities. Check the Coastal Launch and Coastal State Park Sections (pages 61–55) for areas in the Marine District.

• Angus Park Pond, Glastonbury: Off • Farmington River—West Branch, • Salmon River Fly Area, Colchester: 0.9 Manchester Road (Route 83) turn east Barkhamsted: Off dirt road south of miles north of Route 16 on River Road. on Fisher Road: Located on upper dike in Route 318. • Salmon River, East Hampton: South end Town Park. • Farmington River, Unionville: On of picnic area off Gulf Road just south of • Beachdale Pond, Voluntown: Route 149 Farmington Land Trust (www.farming- Route 16. next to boat access area. tonlandtrust.org) property upstream • Saugatuck Reservoir, Easton-Redding- • Beaver Brook Ponds, Windham: Off from Route 177 (between River Road and Weston: Parking area near dam. Railroad Avenue, southerly side of river). Back Road at dam/access area. • Scoville Reservoir, Wolcott: At town boat • Bigelow Pond, Union: At boat launch in • Gardner Lake, Salem-Montville-Bozrah: launch. On dam at Lake Road. Bigelow Hollow SP. • Southford Falls Pond, Oxford-Southbury: • Billings Lake, North Stonington: At dam • Higganum Reservoir, Haddam: Off In Southford Falls SP. Route 81 on northeast shore. adjacent to boat access area. • Squantz Pond, New Fairfield: Near • Black Pond, Meriden-Middlefield: • Highland Lake, Winchester: At state boat Squantz Pond SP boat launch: launch. Adjacent to boat ramp. • Stratton Brook Park Pond, Simsbury: In • Bladens Brook, Seymour: Access • Holbrook Pond, Hebron: On dam adja- Stratton Brook SP. cent to access area. only by permission of Seymour Land • Walkers Reservoir (East), Vernon: Turn Conservation Trust. • Hopeville Pond, Griswold: At end of State south near Route 31 and I-84 junction on • Connecticut River-Haddam Meadows Park campground. Reservoir Road. State Park, Haddam: Dock at the boat • Lake Saltonstall, Branford: At SCCRWA launch in Haddam Meadows State Park. access area off Hosley Avenue. • Connecticut River-Salmon River Cove, • Mansfield Training Center Pond, East Haddam: Dock at state boat launch. Mansfield: Located just east of the junction • Coventry Lake (Wangumbaug Lake), of Routes 44 & 32. Coventry: At state boat launch. • Mashapaug Lake, Union: Off the dock at • Day Pond, Colchester: Off Route 149 at boat launch in Bigelow Hollow SP. dam in Day Pond SP. • Mill River, Hamden: At Clark’s Pond Dam. • Eagleville Lake, Coventry-Mansfield: On • Pattaconk Lake (Russell Jennings dam off Route 275. Pond), Chester: Located between dam • Eight Mile River, East Haddam: Devil’s and beach in Pattaconk Recreation Area. Hopyard S P. • Salmon Brook (East Branch), Granby: East side of river just above Route 20.

Note that many trout parks and other areas identified in the guide as “family friendly” may be suitable for some individuals with mobility challenges that don’t need or want a formal structure such as those found at the sites listed above.

www.ct.gov/deep/fishing 27 Broodstock Atlantic Salmon & River Herring

BROODSTOCK ATLANTIC SALMON: Seasons, Creel Limits & Methods for the period from December 1, 2016–March 31, 2018 OPEN SEASON DAILY CREEL LIMIT LEGAL METHODS (all seasons) December 1, 2016 through March 31, 2017 One (1) salmon per day Fishing for Atlantic Salmon is limited to use of a April 1, 2017 to 6:00 a.m., April 8, 2017 Salmon fishing closed RIVERS single fly or artificial lure with a single free- 6:00 a.m., April 8, 2017 through August 31, 2017 One (1) salmon per day swinging hook. Additional weight may not be added to the line. September 1, 2017 through November 30, 2017 Catch and release only Snagging is strictly prohibited. December 1, 2017 through March 31, 2018 One (1) salmon per day Seasons and Methods in lakes stocked with broodstock Atlantic salmon are the same as for trout in that water body except that the Daily Creel Limit is LAKES One (1) salmon per day. See specific water body listing in the Lakes & Ponds section. The regulations for broodstock Atlantic Salmon are different between lakes and rivers and also vary by date. If you have any questions about these regulations please contact DEEP Fisheries staff at 860-424-FISH (3474) (Hartford), 860-295-9523 (Marlborough), or 860-485-0226 (Harwinton).

ATLANTIC SALMON BROODSTOCK FISHING Important Note While the Federal Government and other New England states have Adult Atlantic Salmon returning from saltwater to freshwater in the discontinued the restoration program, Connecticut has transitioned to Connecticut River system are no longer being captured, removed, and a “Legacy Program” and will be maintaining enough Atlantic Salmon held at a hatchery. There is a possibility that an angler could catch one to preserve genetic integrity of the Connecticut River strain. As a result of these large returning fish. These salmon are protected and it is illegal DEEP will continue stocking, in reduced numbers, fry and surplus to fish for them and any fish accidently captured must be released to the broodstock each year. To support the unique broodstock Atlantic Salmon water immediately. Some of these fish may have a yellow tag present just fisheries that have been established on the Naugatuck and Shetucket behind the dorsal fin. We would appreciate the reporting of any such rivers, as well as selected lakes and ponds stocked at various times (Beach accidental captures to Steve Gephard at 860-447-4316. Pond, Crystal Lake, Mashapaug Lake and Mount Tom Pond), DEEP will also produce about 1,000–1,200 2–3 year old fish (average weight of 2–5 ALEWIFE & BLUEBACK HERRING pounds) annually. These fish are being grown and stocked specifically Emergency Fishery Closure is in effect: for this recreational fishery and are stocked before they produce eggs. Taking of anadromous alewife and blueback herring is prohibited from all Connecticut waters including Long Island Sound. Fishing for broodstock Atlantic salmon in rivers is allowed only in the Alewife and blueback herring (collectively termed “river herring”) following areas: runs have been declining. While the reasons for the decline are not • Naugatuck River: From the confluence of the East and West Branches fully understood, the DEEP believes it is mostly due to predation by (Torrington) downstream to the Housatonic River. increasingly abundant striped bass. Healthy river herring populations • Housatonic River: Entire river downstream of the Derby Dam. are needed to provide food for many species. • Shetucket River: Downstream from the Scotland Dam (Windham) To restore herring runs, the DEEP is taking a number of actions to the Water Street Bridge (Norwich). including removing dams, building fishways, reintroducing pre-spawn adults into streams that had previously supported runs, and eliminating Salmon are Stocked Into Three Designated Broodstock Areas: harvest. An immediate recovery is not expected. However, this closure • Naugatuck River: may reduce the threat of further declines and enable river herring —— From Route 118, Litchfield-Harwinton, downstream to the Thom- populations to recover more quickly in favorable years. aston Dam (Upper section). This emergency closure will be in place through at least March 2018 —— From Prospect Street, Naugatuck, downstream to Pines Bridge and will likely be extended. Check the DEEP website (www.ct.gov/deep) Road, Beacon Falls (Lower section). or contact DEEP Inland Fisheries (860-424-3474) or Marine Fisheries • Shetucket River: From the Scotland Dam, Scotland, downstream to (860-434-6043) for more information. the Occum Dam, Norwich. Landlocked Alewife Designated Broodstock Area Fishing Restriction Landlocked alewife populations are established in several Connecticut From October 1 to March 31, angling for all species in the designated lakes and ponds. Landlocked alewife may be taken by angling or scoop salmon broodstock areas on the Naugatuck and Shetucket Rivers is net only from the following lakes: restricted to fishing methods that are legal for Atlantic salmon (a single • Amos Lake fly or a lure with a single free-swinging hook only). Additional weight • Ball Pond may not be added to the line. Anglers are reminded that the season is • Beach Pond Alewife closed from March 1st to the 2nd Saturday in April for all species other • Candlewood Lake than broodstock Atlantic salmon except in the upper Naugatuck River • Crystal Lake (Ellington) Broodstock Area. This area is within the Naugatuck River TMA, which • Highland Lake is open year-round for trout (catch-and-release only). • Mount Tom Pond • Quassapaug Lake © Joseph Tomelleri • Quonnipaug Lake Atlantic Salmon • Squantz Pond Blueback • Uncas Lake Herring • Waramaug Lake

28 2017 Connecticut Angler’s Guide CONNECTICUT’S STATE FISH HATCHERIES Growing Your Fish for 90 Years

BURLINGTON STATE FISH HATCHERY ADDRESS FISH 34 Belden Rd RAISED Burlington, CT 06013 Survivor Strain — brown trout HOURS Kokanee salmon fry 8:00 am to 3:30 pm Brook, Brown, Rainbow trout TOURS Self-guided or by reservation PHONE 860-673-2340

QUINEBAUG VALLEY STATE TROUT HATCHERY ADDRESS FISH 141 Trout Hatchery Rd RAISED Central Village, CT 06332 Brook, Brown, Rainbow trout HOURS 8:00 am to 3:30 pm Tiger trout (hybrid) TOURS Broodstock trout Self-guided PHONE 860-564-7542

KENSINGTON STATE FISH HATCHERY ADDRESS FISH 120 Old Hatchery Rd RAISED Kensington, CT 06037 Cortland strain — brown trout PHONE Atlantic salmon fry 860-829-8518 Atlantic salmon broodstock Trout and salmon eggs to support the Trout-in-the-Classroom Program and the Salmon-in-Schools Program.

>> Over 600,000 adult trout and 300,000 fry & fingerlings are produced for distribution in Connecticut’s three state fish hatcheries each year.

www.ct.gov/deep/fishing 29 Neighborhood Fishing Opportunities

Channel Catfish:

Channel Catfish Stocking Adult Fish Only

Yearling Fish Only

Yearling and Adult Fish

• Stocked as either yearlings (6"– 8") or adults (14" or more) • The purchase of channel catfish is provided through federal Sportfish Restoration program funding • Excellent to eat try blackened, Cajun, deep fried, or broiled) • Reach large size (CT record = 29 lbs. 6 oz.) • Are easy to catch year round • No size limit or daily limit (as of 2014)

Community Fishing Waters Program:

DEEP and local communities working together to promote natural resources and outdoor recreation opportunities within urban neighborhoods. As part of the community fishing waters program DEEP stocks trout (spring), channel catfish (late spring/early summer), or both, into waters on or close to public transportation routes. Stocking these waters within close proximity to tens of thousands brings a high quality fishing experience to many CT residents. Be sure to cast a line into one of our Community Fishing Waters today!

Scan the code for more information about the Community Fishing Waters Program:

30 2017 Connecticut Angler’s Guide Record Freshwater Fish

WEIGHT COMMON LOCATION CAUGHT ANGLER YEAR NAME lbs. oz. CAUGHT American Eel 10 3 Shetucket River, Norwich Charles J. Lobacz 1993 American Shad 9 4 Connecticut River, Windsor Edward Cypus 1981 7-Inch Bluegill 2 4 Private Pond, Madison Daniel Gesner 1996 Tapered Brook Trout 9 3 Blackwells Brook, Brooklyn David Andes 1998 FLEX Fillet Brown Bullhead 4 15 Prospect Pond, Southington Robert Richey 1990 High carbon steel with Brown Trout 19 0 West Hill Pond, Barkhamsted/New Hartford James M. Lucas II 2014 Brown Trout full tang construction 10 8 Saugatuck River, Westport Ronald J. Merly 2006 (Sea-run) Calico Bass 4 0 Pataganset Lake, East Lyme James M. Boos 1974 Razor sharp serrated blade Chain Pickerel 8 9 West Twin Lake, Salisbury Alden L. Foss 2005 with non-stick coating Channel Catfish 29 6 Mashapaug Lake, Union Appleton Barrows 2004 Big red no-slip-grip Common Carp 43 12 Connecticut River, Middletown Michael Hudak 2012 handle with safety Fallfish 2 4 Farmington River, Simsbury Chad Tessman 2012 guards and trigger grip Kokanee 2 14 East Twin Lake, Salisbury Tom Pasko 2011 Lake Trout 29 13 Wononscopomuc Lake, Salisbury Dr. Thompson 1918 “one cut and Largemouth Bass 12 14 Mashapaug Lake, Union Frank Domurat 1961 you’re Through™” Northern Pike 29 0 Lake Lillinonah, Brookfield Joseph Nett 1980 Pumpkinseed 1 3 Lake Marie, Windham Robyn Rogers 1973 SEE THE FULL LINE OF FISHING AND HUNTING Rainbow Trout 14 10 Mansfield Hollow Reservoir, Mansfield Michael V. Ludlow 1998 KNIVES AT WWW.BUBBABLADE.COM Colebrook Reservoir, Colebrook Ernie Gonsalves 1989 OR ORDER BY PHONE AT 1-844-486-7265 Rock Bass (tie) 1 3 Shenipsit Lake, Tolland James Bonan 1995 Smallmouth Bass 7 12 Shenipsit Lake, Tolland Joseph Mankauskas, Jr. 1980 Tiger Trout 7 14 Quassapaug Lake Jerry Barth 2011 Walleye 15 4 Beach Pond, Voluntown Vincent Deledda 2015 White Catfish 12 12 Connecticut River, Middletown John L. Shatas 1999 White Perch 2 15 Candlewood Lake, New Fairfield Don Loftus, Jr. 1996 Yellow Perch 2 13 Black Pond, Woodstock Miller B. Bassett 1973

LOOKING TO GET THE LEAD OUT? Lead is a metal which, in sufficient quantities, can negatively affect the nervous and reproductive systems of animals and humans. Most fishing jigs and sinkers have historically been made with lead. Wildlife such as eagles, loons, and other waterfowl can be poisoned by lead they’ve consumed. Hooked fish can ingest or retain attached lead fishing tackle such as hooks and jigs, and become a Bait • Tackle • Hunting • Archery potential pathway of lead exposure for predatory birds consuming fish containing such lead fishing gear. In addition, lost or discarded lead fishing weights and other lead fishing tackle of smaller Open 7 days a week sizes can be ingested by wildlife, particularly dabbling and Conveniently located off Route 8 diving water birds such as swans, ducks, geese and loons. There are alternatives to lead, made from non-poisonous 288 S Main Street, Thomaston, CT materials such as tin, bismuth, steel, tungsten and glass www.sanzeris.com that are available at established sporting goods retailers and on the internet. These will be more expensive than 860-283-8654 lead, but will be more environmentally benign, and as demand continues to grow, prices are expected to drop. Consider asking for non-lead alternatives when purchasing new tackle or replacing old. Image courtesy of CT DEEP Wildlife — Paul Fusco Websites for more information on lead sinkers include: • Minnesota Pollution Control Agency: www.pca.state.mn.us/sinkers Making Hunting & Fishing Dreams Come True • US EPA: http://water.epa.gov/scitech/swguidance/fishshellfish/animals.cfm for YoungsTers, 21 & unDer, with LiFe-THreaTening iLLnesses • NY DEC: http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/7908.html Toll Free: 866-345-4455 www.HuntofaLifetime.org Lakes & Ponds

Statewide regulations for seasons, legal methods, and limits (page 21) apply unless a site-specific regulation is listed for a water body. The following lakes and ponds are available for public fishing through the courtesy of the owners or state ownership. Determining fishing regulations is a simple two-step process: Key to Fish Species Abbreviations 1. Check the regulation table (page 21) for general statewide Species, American eel...... AE rainbow smelt...... RA Legal Methods, and Limits regulations. brown bullhead...... BB smallmouth bass...... SMB 2. Look up the waterbody in the alphabetical list of lake and ponds to common carp...... CA sunfish...... S find any special regulations that apply. If no site-specific regulations calico bass...... CB trout...... T are listed for a waterbody, statewide regulations apply. chain pickerel...... CP walleye...... WA Lake and Pond Legend channel catfish...... CC white catfish...... WC kokanee salmon...... K white perch...... WP L Public boat launching area largemouth bass...... LMB yellow perch...... YP C Cartop boat launching area northern pike...... NP H Facilities for disabled G State campground BASS S Shore fishing access TROUT KOKANEE Special Management Lakes C Family friendly fishing location NORTHERN PIKE are color-coded for major State picnic area WALLEYE P gamefish species Italics Access/stocking information CATFISH COMMUNITY FISHING (T SMB) Most common species (those in bold type should provide the WATERS best fishing) — see key to fish species abbreviations at right

ALLEN BROOK POND, Wallingford, ANDERSON POND (Blue Lake), AVERY POND, Preston (36 acres) pike fishing. (see Wharton Pond) North Stonington (57 acres) • All Other Species: Open year round, L statewide regulations apply. L • Species: (CP LMB YP BB S) • Other: Motors prohibited 11 p.m. to • Species: (LMB CP CB S BB YP) • Other: 8 mph speed limit. 5 a.m. Use of internal combustion ALEXANDER LAKE, Killingly (215 acres) motors prohibited on the Bantam River • Note: No public access. between Bantam Lake and the inlet to Little Pond. • Species: (LMB SMB CP S BB WP YP) ANGUS PARK POND (Eastbury Pond), BABCOCK POND, Colchester (119 acres) • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday Glastonbury (9.4 acres) April–last day February. SC • Other: The possession and use of any HS • Species: (LMB YP S CP BB) BARBER POND, Bloomfield (9.4 acres) live alewives, blueback (glut or river) • Species: (T CP LMB S BB YP) • Other: 8 mph speed limit. herring, gizzard, hickory or threadfin • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday • Species: (S) shad as bait is prohibited. Motor size April–October 31. • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday limit—12 cu in (Approx. 10 hp). • Other: Boats and canoes prohibited. April–last day February. BACKWATER POND, Thompson • Other: Boats and canoes prohibited except between May 16 and October S 31. Use of all motors prohibited. AMOS LAKE, Preston (113 acres) ASHLAND POND, Griswold (89 acres) • Season: Open year-round. L • Species: (LMB CP YP S) TROUT MANAGEMENT LAKE / BASHAN LAKE, East Haddam (273 acres) BASS MANAGEMENT LAKE BALDWINS POND, Meriden (5.4 acres) L • Species: (T CP LMB BB AE YP S) ASPINOOK POND, Lisbon/Griswold/ S • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday BASS MANAGEMENT LAKE Canterbury (301 acres) • Species: (T) April–March 31. • Species: (T LMB SMB CP CB YP S) Informal boat access off Butts Bridge • Largemouth & smallmouth bass: • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday Road, no facilities. Commercial launch 12" to 18" protected slot limit. Daily April–last day February. (fee charged) at private campground off creel limit—6 bass, only 1 may be 18" • Largemouth & smallmouth bass: Ross Hill Road. BALL POND, New Fairfield (83 acres) or greater. 12" to 16" protected slot limit. Daily • Species: (LMB WP YP S CA CB) • Trout: From March 1–March 31, Daily L creel limit—6 bass, only 2 may be 16" • Other: Butts Bridge is the demarcation creel limit—1, 16" minimum length. • Species: (T LMB BB S YP) or greater. line between the pond and the Quine- • Other: 8 mph speed limit. See 2017 • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday • Other: 35 mph speed limit days, 6 mph baug River. Boater’s Guide for summer exemption. April–last day February. limit ½ hour after sunset to 8 a.m. • Other: Vessels with motors attached prohibited. BATTERSON PARK POND, Farmington (140 acres) BANTAM LAKE, Morris-Litchfield (947 acres) SL NORTHERN PIKE LAKE WALLEYE LAKE / CATFISH LAKE • Species: (NP SMB LMB WP CB YP Channel catfish first stocked in 2013. The boating laws and regulations provided in this guide are brief S BB) • Species: (CB YP WP S LMB WA) summaries of selected state boating safety statutes and regulations, • Northern Pike: • Season: Open year-round. and local ordinances. For complete boating regulations and additional »»May 1–Nov. 30: Daily creel limit—2, • Other: Use of internal combustion information, please refer to the 2017 Connecticut Boater’s Guide which 26" minimum length. engines prohibited. »»Dec. 1–last day Feb.: Daily creel can be obtained from the DEEP Boating Division (860-434-8638). limit—1, 36" minimum length. »»March 1–April 30: Closed to northern

32 2017 Connecticut Angler’s Guide Lakes and Ponds open year-round (no closed season) unless otherwise stated.

BAUMMER POND, Naugatuck (2.7 acres) BESECK LAKE, Middlefield (116 acres) BLACK POND, Meriden-Middlefield (76 acres) BREAKNECK POND, S L HSL Union-Massachusetts (92 acres) • Species: (T BB S) • Species: (LMB YP CB S) BASS MANAGEMENT LAKE / CATFISH LAKE S • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday • Other: 8 mph speed limit. See 2017 Channel catfish first stocked in 2007. Walk-in access (approximately 1.2 miles April–last day February. Boater’s Guide for summer exemption. • Species: (T LMB CP BB CB S CC) from north end of Bigelow Pond). • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday • Note: Connecticut or Massachusetts April–last day February. license legal on entire pond. • Largemouth & smallmouth bass: 12" to • Species: (S YP CB CP LMB) BEACH POND, BESSE PARK POND, Torrington (4.5 acres) 16" protected slot limit. Daily creel limit— • Other: Use of internal combustion Voluntown – Rhode Island (372 acres) S 6 bass, only 2 may be 16" or greater. engines prohibited. Motor vehicle • Other: Use of internal combustion access prohibited. HSL • Species: (S) engines prohibited. WALLEYE LAKE • Season: Open year-round. • Species: (T LMB SMB CP S YP WA) • Note: Connecticut or Rhode Island BROAD BROOK MILLPOND, East Windsor fishing license legal on entire pond. BLACK POND, Woodstock (74 acres) (19 acres) Rhode Island regulations apply for bass BICENTENNIAL POND (Mansfield Town Pond), and pickerel. Mansfield (6 acres) SL S • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday S • Species: (T LMB SMB CP YP BB S CB) • Species: (T LMB YP S) April–last day February. • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday • Species: (T S LMB BB) • Largemouth & smallmouth bass: April–last day February. April–last day February. • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday Daily creel limit—5 bass, 12" minimum • Other: Motors limited to 5 hp. • Other: Motors prohibited. April–October 31. length. • Chain Pickerel: Daily creel limit—5, 14" minimum length. BLACK ROCK LAKE (Branch Brook), BULL POND, Harwinton (20 acres) • Broodstock Atlantic salmon have BIGELOW POND, Union (25 acres) been stocked several times into Watertown (21 acres) Informal cartop access. this lake, first in 2007 and most PHSLC SC • Species: (BB LMB BC) recently in December, 2015. Regu- • Species: (T YP LMB S) • Other: Motors prohibited. • Species: (T) lations for salmon are the same as • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday • Season: Open 2nd Saturday April–last for trout except: Daily creel limit— April–last day February. day February. 1 Atlantic salmon. • Other: Use of internal combustion • All Other Species: CT Statewide regu- engines prohibited. BUNNELLS POND (Beardsley Park Pond), lations apply. Bridgeport (33 acres) • Other: No more than six tip-ups may BLACK ROCK POND, Watertown (9.5 acres) PS be used when ice-fishing. BILLINGS LAKE, North Stonington (97 acres) PGSC COMMUNITY FISHING WATERS / CATFISH LAKE In Black Rock State Park. HSL Channel catfish first stocked in 2007. TROUT PARK BASS MANAGEMENT LAKE • Species: (S CC T) BEACHDALE POND, Voluntown (46 acres) • Species: (T LMB) • Species: (T LMB YP CP S CB BB) • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday HL • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday April–November 30. April–last day February. • Species: (LMB T YP BB) April to last day February. • Other: Ice fishing prohibited. • Trout: Daily creel limit—2. • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday • Largemouth & smallmouth bass: • Other: All vessels prohibited. April–last day February. 12" to 16" protected slot limit. Daily • Other: 8 mph speed limit. creel limit—6 bass, only 2 may be 16" or greater. BURR POND, Torrington (85 acres) BLUE LAKE (see Anderson Pond) PGSLC BEACHLAND POND, West Hartford (1.1 acres) CATFISH LAKE • Species: (S) BIRGE POND, Bristol (15.8 acres) Channel catfish first stocked in 2013. • Season: Open year-round. SC BOLTON LAKES (Lower, Middle, Upper), • Species: (BB LMB S) • Other: 8 mph speed limit. COMMUNITY FISHING WATERS Bolton-Coventry-Vernon (346 acres) • Season: Open year-round. Trout and Channel Catfish first stocked LCS in 2014. BEAVER BROOK PONDS, BASS MANAGEMENT LAKE / CATFISH LAKE • Species: (T, CC, S) (Bibbins Ponds), Windham (20 acres) Channel catfish first stocked into Lower • Trout: Season open 2nd Saturday in Bolton Lake in 2007. BUTTERNUT POND, East Windsor (1.4 acres) HSC April-last day February. • Species: (T) • All Other Species: Season open year • Species: (YP BB CP LMB SMB S CC) • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday round. • Largemouth & smallmouth bass: 12" to 16" protected slot limit. Daily creel limit— April–last day February. BUTTERNUT PARK POND, Middletown 6 bass, only 2 may be 16" or greater. • Other: Boats and canoes prohibited (2.9 acres). (see Rowan's Pond) except from May 16 to October 31. • Other: Motors limited to 6 hp. Motors prohibited. BISHOP SWAMP (Jurovaty Pond), Andover (53 acres)

Informal cartop launch. BOLTON NOTCH POND, Bolton (17 acres) CANDLEWOOD LAKE, Danbury-New Fairfield- • Species: (LMB CB S BB) Sherman-New Milford-Brookfield (5064 acres) BEAVER PARK LAGOON, • Other: Use of internal combustion SC New Haven (8.5 acres) engines prohibited. • Species: (LMB S YP) L S TROUT MANAGEMENT LAKE • Species: (T LMB SMB YP WC WP COMMUNITY FISHING WATERS CB BB S) Trout and Channel Catfish first stocked BRANFORD SUPPLY PONDS, • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday in 2014. Branford (26 acres) April–March 31. • Species: (CC T AE LMB CA S BB) • Trout: From March 1–March 31; Daily • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday S creel limit—1, 16" minimum length. April–October 31. • Species: (T LMB S CP) • Other: 45 mph daytime speed limit, 25 • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday mph from ½ hour after sunset to ½ hour April–last day February. before sunrise. www.ct.gov/deep/fishing 33 Lakes & Ponds

Statewide regulations for seasons, legal methods, and limits (page 21) apply unless a site-specific regulation is listed for a water body.

CEDAR LAKE, Chester (69 acres) COLEBROOK RIVER LAKE, • Other: Not more than two hooks may CRYSTAL LAKE, Middletown (32 acres) Colebrook-Massachusetts (826 acres) be used during periods of open water SL fishing and not more than five hooks SL WALLEYE LAKE L may be used when ice fishing. Any • Species: (LMB YP BB S) Walleye first stocked in 2012. BASS MANAGEMENT LAKE sinker or weight made from lead that • Other: Use of internal combustion • Species: (T YP LMB CP BB S) • Note: Connecticut or Massachusetts weighs less than 1 ounce, and any lead engines prohibited. • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday fishing license legal on entire pond from jig (meaning any lead-weighted hook) April–last day February. demarcation posters downstream to that weighs less than 1 ounce, is prohib- • Other: 6 mph speed limit. the dam. ited for use in all inland waters of the DAY POND, Colchester (7.4 acres) • Species: (T RA LMB SMB WC) Commonwealth. The term lead sinker • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday shall not include any other sinkers, C April–last day February. PHS weights, fishing lures or fishing tackle TROUT PARK CENTER SPRINGS PARK POND, • Largemouth & smallmouth bass: including, but not limited to, artificial • Species: (T S WC) Manchester (11.8 acres) 12" to 16" protected slot limit; Daily lures, hooks, weighted flies, and lead- • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday creel limit—6 bass, only 2 may be 16" S core or other weighted fishing lines. April–last day February. or greater. COMMUNITY FISHING WATERS • Trout: Daily creel limit—2. • Other: 20 mph speed limit. The posses- Trout and Channel Catfish first stocked • Other: All vessels prohibited. sion and use of any live alewives, in 2015. blueback (glut or river) herring, gizzard, COVENTRY LAKE (Wangumbaug Lake), • Species: (CC, T, S) hickory or threadfin shad as bait is Coventry (373 acres) • Trout: Season open 2nd Saturday in prohibited. April-last day February. L DODGE POND, East Lyme (34 acres) • All Other Species: Season open year BASS MANAGEMENT LAKE / WALLEYE LAKE round. L • Species: (T YP LMB SMB WA S CB) • Species: (T LMB CB YP) COLONY POND (Abe Stone Park Pond), • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday Ansonia (3.6 acres) April–last day February. April–last day February. • Largemouth & smallmouth bass: CHATFIELD HOLLOW POND • Other: Use of all motors prohibited. S C 12" to 16" protected slot limit. Daily (see Schreeder Pond) COMMUNITY FISHING WATERS creel limit—6 bass, only 2 may be 16" Trout first stocked in 2015. or greater. • Species: (T, LMB, S) • Other: The possession and use of any DOG POND, Goshen (66 acres) • Trout: Season open 2nd Saturday in live alewives, blueback (glut or river) LAKE CHAMBERLAIN, Bethany (107 acres) April-last day February. herring, gizzard, hickory or threadfin L BASS MANAGEMENT LAKE • All Other Species: Season open year shad as bait is prohibited. 6 mph speed • Species: (LMB CP YP CB BB S) • Species: (LMB CP S) round. limit from sunset to 1 hour after sunrise • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday all days, and on Sundays noon to 4:00 April–November 30. p.m. from May 15 to September 15, and DOOLEY POND, Middletown (19 acres) • Largemouth & smallmouth bass: from noon to 2:00 p.m. on July 4. 40 COMPENSATING RESERVOIR 12" to 16" protected slot limit; Daily mph limit all other times. creel limit—6 bass, only 2 may be 16" (see Lake McDonough) SL • Species: (LMB YP S) or greater. • Other: 8 mph speed limit. • Note: Shore fishing only. Fishing by permit from South Central Connecticut CRESCENT LAKE, Southington (51.2 acres) Regional Water Authority 203-562-4020. CONGAMOND LAKES (South Pond, Middle Pond, and North Pond), L EAGLEVILLE LAKE, Coventry-Mansfield Suffield-Massachusetts (465 acres) • Species: (LMB S YP) (77 acres) • Other: Use of internal combustion CHRISTENSEN’S POND, Granby (1.5 acres) L engines prohibited. • Note: Connecticut or Massachusetts HSC Brigham Road Bridge (Plains Road) is the S fishing license is legal on all three lakes. demarcation line between the lake and • Species: (T S) • Species: (T LMB BB YP CP AE S) the Willimantic River. • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday Massachusetts regulations apply as CRYSTAL LAKE, Ellington-Stafford (183 acres) • Species: (LMB SMB CP S YP BB) April–last day February. follows: • Other: 8 mph speed limit. • Season: open year-round. SL • Trout: Daily creel limit—3 TROUT MANAGEMENT LAKE • Bass: Daily creel limit—5, 12" minimum • Species: (T YP CP SMB LMB S) CITY HALL POND, Milford • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday length. EASTBURY POND (see Angus Park Pond) • Species: (S) • Chain pickerel: Daily creel limit—5, 15" April–March 31. • Season: Open year-round. minimum length. • Trout: »»From 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday April– last day February, 12" to 16" protected EAST TWIN LAKE (Washining Lake), slot limit. Daily creel limit—5, only 1 Salisbury (569 acres) CLARKS POND (Mill River), Hamden may be 16" or greater. S »»From March 1–March 31; Daily creel C limit—1, 16" minimum length. Commercial launching ramp, fee • Species: (T) • Broodstock Atlantic salmon have charged. Boat livery. • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday been stocked multiple times into April–last day February. this lake, first in 2007 and most TROUT MANAGEMENT LAKE / KOKANEE LAKE • Other: Boats and canoes prohibited. recently in October, 2016. Regula- • Species: (T LMB CP YP S BB CB K) tions for salmon are the same as • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday for trout except: Daily creel limit—1 April–March 31. Atlantic salmon. • Trout: Daily creel limit—5, except • Other: 6 mph speed limit from sunset from March 1–March 31, 16" minimum to 9 a.m., and on Sundays from noon length, Daily creel limit—1. to 3:00 p.m. 45 mph speed limit at all • Trout & Kokanee combined: Daily other times. creel limit—8 for both species in Remember, it’s illegal to fish in or cast aggregate, of which no more than 5 into a DEEP permitted swim area. may be trout and no more than 5 may be kokanee salmon. (RSCA §15-121-B12(c))

34 2017 Connecticut Angler’s Guide Lakes and Ponds open year-round (no closed season) unless otherwise stated.

• Other: 35 mph daytime speed limit, 6 mph from ½ hour after sunset to ½ hour after sunrise. Also 6 mph within 200 CANDLEWOOD LAKE DEPTH MAP feet of vessel or dock. The possession and use of any live alewives, blueback (glut or river) herring, gizzard, hickory or First produced in 2006, Connecticut DEEP’s Candlewood threadfin shad as bait is prohibited. The Lake depth map has become an angler favorite. use of radios by fishermen is prohibited from 11:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. • Produced using state-of-the-art GPS technology. • Field work and compilation ran from 1999 to 2005, and the final product is a color chart which measures 23 by 36 inches. EDGEWOOD PARK POND, New Haven (3 acres) • The best and most current information on Candlewood Lake depths available. • Season: Open year-round. • Maps are fully laminated, so the weather won’t damage it. Available from the online DEEP Store $10.95 FACTORY POND (Norwalk River), • Order by phone: 860-424-3555 Redding-Wilton (12 acres) • Shop online: www.ct.gov/deep/store • Species: (T) • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday April–last day February.

FRESHWATER POND (Freshwater Brook), GREAT HILL POND, Portland (76 acres) HALLVILLE POND (Indiantown Brook), Enfield (8 acres) Informal cartop/carry-in access only (30 Preston (10 acres) FACTORY POND (Town Grove Pond), yards). Informal cartop access. Salisbury (2 acres) S • Species: (LMB CP YP CB S BB WC) • Species: (T) COMMUNITY FISHING WATERS • Other: Motors limited to 6 hp or less. • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday S Catfish first stocked in 2012. 12 mph speed limit. April–last day February. • Children’s Pond: Fishing restricted to • Species: (T, CC) children under age 16. • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday April–last day February. April–November 30. GREAT HOLLOW POND, Monroe (15 acres) HAMILTON RESERVOIR, Union-Massachusetts PSC (412 acres) GARDNER LAKE, Salem-Montville-Bozrah Within Wolfe Park. FARMILL (ISINGLASS) RESERVOIR, L (529 acres) TROUT PARK • Species: (T LMB SMB YP CB S BB) Shelton (4 acres) HSL • Species: (T) • Note: Connecticut or Massachusetts • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday fishing license legal on entire pond. BASS MANAGEMENT LAKE / WALLEYE LAKE April–December 31. April–November 30. Massachusetts regulations apply as • Species: (T SMB LMB YP CP CB S • Species: (LMB S) • Trout: Daily creel limit—2 follows: WA BB WC) • Note: Permit required to fish- • Season: Open year-round. • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday contact Aquarion Water company at • Trout: Daily creel limit—3 April–last day February. 203-452-3511. • Large & smallmouth bass: Daily creel • Largemouth & smallmouth bass: GREEN FALLS RESERVOIR (Green Falls Pond), limit—5 total, 12" minimum length. Daily creel limit—2, 16" minimum length. Voluntown (48 acres) • Chain pickerel: Daily creel limit—5, 15" • Other: 6 mph speed limit from sunset minimum length. FERNRIDGE PARK POND, West Hartford to 8:00 a.m. PGSCC • Northern pike: Daily creel limit—1, 28" (0.7 acres) • Species: (T LMB BB S) minimum length. • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday • Species: (S) • Other: Not more than two hooks may April–October 31. • Season: Open year-round. be used during periods of open water GAY CITY POND, Hebron (5.1 acres) • Other: Use of internal combustion fishing and not more than five hooks engines prohibited. PSC may be used when ice fishing. Any • Species: (T CP BB YP) sinker or weight made from lead that FISHER MEADOWS POND (Spring Lake), • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday weighs less than 1 ounce, and any lead Avon (41 acres) April–last day February. GRIGGS POND, Woodstock (38 acres) jig (meaning any lead-weighted hook) S C • Other: All vessels prohibited. that weighs less than 1 ounce, is prohib- Within Fisher Meadows Park. S ited for use in all inland waters of the • Species: (LMB CA S) Walk in access from Route 198 (200 Commonwealth. The term lead sinker yards). shall not include any other sinkers, • Other: Ice fishing prohibited by town GLASGO POND, Griswold (168 acres) ordinance. • Species: (LMB YP S BB) weights, fishing lures or fishing tackle SL • Other: Use of internal combustion including, but not limited to, artificial engines prohibited. lures, hooks, weighted flies, and lead- • Species: (LMB YP BB CB S) core or other weighted fishing lines. FITCHVILLE POND, Bozrah (59 acres)

• Species: (T LMB CP S) HALLS POND, Eastford-Ashford (82 acres) GORTON POND, East Lyme (52 acres) • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday HAMPTON RESERVOIR, Hampton-Eastford April–last day February. SL SC (88 acres) BASS MANAGEMENT LAKE • Species: (LMB CB YP BB S) • Species: (LMB S YP CB CP) C • Other: 8 mph speed limit. • Largemouth & smallmouth bass: • Species: (LMB YP CP S BB) FOUNTAIN LAKE RESERVOIR, 12" to 16" protected slot limit. Daily • Other: Use of internal combustion Ansonia-Seymour (6 acres) creel limit—6 bass, only 2 may be 16" engines prohibited. S GOULD MANOR POND, Fairfield (2 acres) or greater. • Other: 8 mph speed limit. • Species: (T LMB S) • Children’s Pond: Fishing restricted to • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday children under age 16. April–last day February. • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday April–November 30. www.ct.gov/deep/fishing 35 Lakes & Ponds

Statewide regulations for seasons, legal methods, and limits (page 21) apply unless a site-specific regulation is listed for a water body.

HANCOCK BROOK LAKE, Plymouth (20 acres) • Other: All vessels prohibited. HOPE LAKE (see Nells Rock Reservoir) • Other: Use of internal combustion Operation of vessels with motors, except engines prohibited. S for electric motors, is prohibited. Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset (but no later than 8:00 pm). Walk-in access only after HOPEVILLE POND, Griswold (137 acres) Labor Day weekend (September 4, 2017) HURLBURT POND, Putnam (3 acres) until the weekend before Memorial Day HIGGANUM RESERVOIR, Haddam (31 acres) PGSL weekend (May 20, 2017). CATFISH LAKE S • Species: (T) S Channel catfish first stocked in 2012. • Season: Open year-round. • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday Public right-of-way, passable for cars. Launch open from Opening Day to early April–last day February. • Species: (T S) October. • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday • Species: (LMB NP CP S WP YP) HYDE POND, Ledyard (5.4 acres) April–last day February. • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday • Other: 8 mph speed limit. April–last day February. S HANOVER POND, Meriden (70 acres) • Other: 8 mph speed limit. • Species: (T) Town operated boat launch. • Species: (LMB S) HIGHLAND LAKE, Winchester (445 acres) • Other: Steerage speed only. HL HOPEWELL POND/LAKE HOPEWELL INDIAN LAKE (Indian Pond), Sharon- (see Huntington Pond) TROUT MANAGEMENT LAKE / New York (196 acres) BASS MANAGEMENT LAKE • Note: Connecticut or New York fishing HANOVER RESERVOIR, Canterbury-Sprague • Species: (T LMB YP SMB CB S) license legal on entire pond. New York (21 acres) • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday regulations apply for large & small- HORSE POND, Salem (13 acres) Walk-in access (approximately 600 yards April–March 31. mouth bass. from Little River Road in Canterbury). • Largemouth & smallmouth bass: HSC • Species: (LMB YP) • Species: (T LMB S) Daily creel limit—2, 16" minimum length. • Species: (T S BB CP LMB) • Largemouth & smallmouth bass: • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday • Trout: • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday Season—Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday April–last day February. »»From 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday April– April–last day February. April–November 30. last day February, 12" to 16" protected • Trout: Statewide daily creel limit (5) • All Other Species: Season—Open slot limit. Daily creel limit—5, only 1 now applies. 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday April–March 31. may be 16" or greater. • Other: Not more than five tip-ups and HATCH POND, Kent (72 acres) • Other: Use of internal combustion »»From March 1–March 31; Daily creel engines prohibited. two hand-held jigs allowed for ice L limit—1, 16" minimum length. fishing. • Species: (YP BB CP LMB CB S) • Other: 6 mph speed limit from ½ hour • Other: 8 mph speed limit. after sunset to ½ hour before sunrise (and from 5 p.m. on Sundays from LAKE HOUSATONIC, Shelton-Derby- Memorial Day weekend through Labor Monroe-Oxford-Seymour (328 acres) ISINGLASS RESERVOIR Day). 45 mph speed limit on weekends (see Farmill Reservoir) LAKE HAYWARD (Shaw Lake), and holidays. PL East Haddam (174 acres) From the Stevenson Dam to the Derby Dam. Boat launch at Indian Well State L Park, opens for daytime (8:00 a.m. to KAATZ POND, Trumbull (2 acres) BASS MANAGEMENT LAKE HODGE POND, Voluntown (10 acres) sunset) use on April 1st (no other ameni- • Children’s Pond: Fishing restricted to • Species: (T LMB YP CP S CB BB AE) Public right-of-way, carry-in access. ties until mid-May). Park officially closes children under age 16. • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday • Species: (LMB CP YP S BB) September 30th. Note: boating/fishing • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday April–last day February. access may continue past this date. April–November 30. • Largemouth & smallmouth bass: 12" Contact Park Manager (203-735-4311) to 16" protected slot limit. Daily creel limit for information concerning status of fall —6 bass, only 2 may be 16" or greater. HOGBACK RESERVOIR boating and fishing access. • Other: Use of internal combustion (see West Branch Reservoir) KEACH POND BASS MANAGEMENT LAKE engines prohibited. (see Peck Pond) • Species: (SMB LMB WC WP YP AE S CA) HOLBROOK POND, Hebron (83 acres) • Largemouth & smallmouth bass: HELEN KELLER SCHOOL POND, Easton Daily creel limit—2, 16" minimum length. KENEY PARK POND, Hartford (3 acres) HSL • Other: Minimum steerage speed within S Handicapped access at dam. 25 ft. of shore or dock. 45 mph speed S • Children’s Pond: Fishing restricted to • Species: (LMB YP CB S) limit daytime, 25 mph from ½ hour after COMMUNITY FISHING WATERS / children under age 16. • Other: 8 mph speed limit. sunset to ½ hour before sunrise. CATFISH LAKE • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday Channel catfish first stocked in 2007. April–November 30. • Species: (T S CC) • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday HOWELLS POND, Hartland (14 acres) HOP BROOK LAKE, Middlebury (26 acres) April–last day February. HEWITT FLYFISHING POND (Gallup Pond), PSC PHSL North Stonington (2 acres) Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset (but no later Public right-of-way, passable for cars. than 8:00 pm). Walk-in access only after • Species: (T) LAKE KENOSIA, Danbury (60 acres) S Labor Day weekend (September 4, 2017) • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday • Species: (T LMB YP S BB) until the weekend before Memorial Day April–last day February. L • Methods: Fly fishing only. weekend (May 20, 2017). • Other: Use of internal combustion BASS MANAGEMENT LAKE / CATFISH LAKE • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday • Species: (T) Note: Trout stocking engines prohibited. Channel catfish first stocked in 2012. April–October 31. discontinued due to limited spring recre- • Species: (LMB S BB YP) • Other: All vessels prohibited. ational access. • Largemouth & smallmouth bass: • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday 12" to 16" protected slot limit. Daily HUNTINGTON POND (Starret Pond, April–last day February. creel limit—6 bass, only 2 may be 16" Lake Hopewell, Huntington Park • Other: Vessels with motors, except or greater. HEWITT POND (Lower Hewitt Pond), Pond), Redding (15 acres) electric, prohibited. No ice fishing. • Other: Operating a boat propelled North Stonington (2 acres) S by an internal combustion engine • Species: (T S BB) • Species: (T LMB S) prohibited. • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday April–last day February. April–last day February.

36 2017 Connecticut Angler’s Guide Lakes and Ponds open year-round (no closed season) unless otherwise stated.

KILLINGLY POND, Killingly-Rhode Island »»Dec. 1–last day Feb.: Daily creel limit—1, MAMANASCO LAKE, Ridgefield (89 acres) LAKE McDONOUGH (Compensating Reservoir), (122 acres) 36" minimum length. L New Hartford-Barkhamsted (391 acres) • Note: Connecticut or Rhode Island »»March 1–April 30: Closed to northern BASS MANAGEMENT LAKE SL fishing license legal on entire pond. pike fishing. • Species: (LMB S YP BB CB) • Species: (T LMB SMB YP S) • Species: (LMB SMB S YP CP) • All Other Species: Open year round, • Largemouth & smallmouth bass: • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday • Largemouth & smallmouth bass: statewide regulations apply. 12" to 16" protected slot limit. Daily April–November 30. Daily creel limit—5 bass, 12" minimum creel limit—6 bass, only 2 may be 16" • Note: 10 mph motorboat speed limit. length. or greater. Boat launch owned and operated • Chain Pickerel: Daily creel limit—5, LITTLE POND (Schoolhouse Pond), • Other: Use of internal combustion by MDC ($6.00 parking fee, $6.00 14" minimum length. Thompson (65 acres) engines prohibited. launching fee). Launch area open from • All Other Species: CT Statewide regu- 2nd Saturday April through Labor Day. lations apply. L Boat launch hours: 10:00 a.m.–sunset • Other: No more than six tip-ups may • Species: (T LMB YP CP CB S) weekdays, 8:00 a.m.–sunset week- be used when ice-fishing. Motors • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday MANITOOK LAKE, Granby (57 acres) ends, except 6:00 a.m.–sunset on limited to 12 cu in (approx. 10 hp). April–last day February. • Species: (LMB S) Opening Day. Boats must be off lake • Note: Ice fishing permitted on week- by 7:30 p.m. Reservoir shore fishing ends only. access from sunrise to 9:00 p.m. (except LAKE OF ISLES, North Stonington (89 acres) LONG POND, Ledyard-North • Other: 5 mph speed limit in restricted from 6:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m. on Opening Stonington (109 acres) areas. Use of motors in excess of 7-½ Day). Visit MDC at www.themdc.com L hp prohibited on Saturdays. or call (860-379-3036, 860-379-0916) • Species: (LMB CP YP CB S BB) SL for updated fees, hours and other • Other: 8 mph speed limit. • Species: (T CP LMB CB YP S) information. • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday MANSFIELD HOLLOW RESERVOIR April–last day February. (Naubesatuck Lake), Mansfield- • Other: 5 mph speed limit. LAKEVILLE LAKE (see Wononskopomuc Lake) Chaplin-Windham (460 acres) McGOVERN POND, West Hartford (1 acre) C • Species: (S, LMB) SL • Season: Open year-round. LOWER FULTON PARK POND, BASS MANAGEMENT LAKE / LAKEWOOD LAKE (Great Brook Reservoir), Waterbury (2.8 acres) NORTHERN PIKE LAKE Waterbury (73 acres) • Species: (CP LMB NP T YP S CB) PS • Season: Open year-round. McGRATH PARK POND S • Species: (S) • Largemouth & smallmouth bass: 12" to (Prospect Park Pond), Prospect. (1 acre) COMMUNITY FISHING WATERS / • Season: Open year-round. 16" protected slot limit. Daily creel limit—6 CATFISH LAKE bass, only 2 may be 16" or greater. S Channel catfish first stocked in 2008. • Other: 8 mph speed limit. Swimming • Species: (T) • Species: (LMB S CC) prohibited. • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday LOWER STORRS PUMPING POND, April–October 31. Mansfield (2 acre)

LANTERN HILL POND, S MANSFIELD TOWN POND Ledyard-North Stonington (23 acres) • Species: (T) (see Bicentennial Pond) MESSERSCHMIDT POND, • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday Deep River-Westbrook (73 acres) L April–last day February. • Species: (T LMB CP CB YP S) SC • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday MANSFIELD TRAINING SCHOOL PONDS, • Species: (LMB CP S BB YP AE) April–last day February. Mansfield (1.1 & 2.3 acres) • Other: Use of internal combustion MAD RIVER FLOOD CONTROL IMPOUNDMENT, engines prohibited. Winchester (7.9 acres) S • Species: (T S BB) LEONARD POND, Kent (20 acres) S • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday MILL POND, Newington (2.7 acres) • Species: (T) April–last day February. C • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday • Children’s Pond: Fishing restricted to • Species: (YP CB CP BB LMB) April–last day February. children under age 16. • Other: All vessels prohibited. • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday MASHAPAUG LAKE, Union (287 acres) April–November 30. LAKE LILLINONAH, Brookfield-Bridgewater- PHSL Newtown-Southbury-New Milford (1547 acres) MALTBY LAKES (1,2,3), BASS MANAGEMENT LAKE / WALLEYE LAKE L Orange-West Haven (19, 23 & 25 acres) • Species: (T LMB SMB CP YP S WA) MILL WOODS PARK POND, • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday Wethersfield (7.3 acres) From Bleachery Dam to the Shepaug Dam. S April–last day February. • Species: (LMB SMB WP CB WC NP • Season: Open year-round. BASS MANAGEMENT LAKE / CATFISH LAKE • Largemouth & smallmouth bass: S CA YP) Channel catfish first stocked into 12" to 16" protected slot limit. Daily • Other: 45 mph speed limit daytime, 25 Maltby Lakes 2 & 3 in 2007. creel limit—6 bass, only 2 may be 16" mph from ½ hour after sunset to ½ hour • Species: (T LMB S YP CC) or greater. MILLERS POND, Durham (33 acres) before sunrise. • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday • Broodstock Atlantic salmon have April–November 30. been stocked several times into S • Largemouth & smallmouth bass: this lake, first in 2008 and most Carry in boat access (300 yards). LILLY POND, Thompson (7.4 acres) 12" to 16" protected slot limit. Daily recently in October, 2009. Regula- • Species: (LMB YP T S) creel limit—6 bass, only 2 may be 16" tions for salmon are the same as • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday • Season: Open year-round. or greater. for trout except: Daily creel limit—1 April–last day February. • Note: Shore fishing only. Fishing by Atlantic salmon. • Other: Use of internal combustion permit from South Central Connecticut • Other: 10 mph speed limit. engines prohibited. LITTLE POND (Little Bantam), Regional Water Authority 203-562-4020. Litchfield (15 acres) • Species: (NP LMB YP S BB) • Northern Pike: »»May 1–Nov. 30: Daily creel limit—2, 26" minimum length. www.ct.gov/deep/fishing 37 Lakes & Ponds

Statewide regulations for seasons, legal methods, and limits (page 21) apply unless a site-specific regulation is listed for a water body.

MIRROR LAKE (Hubbard Park Pond), MOHEGAN PARK POND (Spaulding Pond), MOREY POND, Union-Ashford (45 acres) NORTH STREET POND, Milford Meriden (7.4 acres) Norwich (14 acres) SL • Season: Open year-round. S C S C • Species: (BB CP LMB YP S) COMMUNITY FISHING WATERS BASS MANAGEMENT LAKE / TROUT PARK / • Other: 8 mph speed limit. Trout and Channel Catfish first stocked COMMUNITY FISHING WATERS / NORTHFIELD BROOK LAKE, in 2014. CATFISH LAKE Litchfield (8 acres) • Species: (T, CC) Channel catfish first stocked in 2007. • Season: Open year-round. • Species: (T S BB LMB CC) MOUNT TOM POND, S • Trout: Season open 2nd Saturday in • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday Morris-Litchfield-Washington (56 acres) Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. Walk-in access April-last day February. April–November 30. PSC only after Columbus Day until the 2nd • All Other Species: Season open year • Largemouth & smallmouth bass: Saturday in April. WALLEYE LAKE round. Daily creel limit—2, 16" minimum length. • Species: (T) Walleye first stocked in 2012. • Other: Ice fishing prohibited by town • Trout: Daily creel limit—2. • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday • Species: (T S LMB WA CB CP YP) ordinance. April–last day February. • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday April–last day February. MONO POND, Columbia (113 acres) • Broodstock Atlantic salmon have MITCHELL POND, East Haddam (4 acres) been stocked multiple times into this NORTHFIELD CUTLERY COMPANY POND, SL lake, first in 2009 and most recently Litchfield S • Species: (LMB YP CP S) in October, 2016. Regulations for Public right-of-way, passable for cars. • Species: (LMB S) • Other: 8 mph speed limit. salmon are the same as for trout • Species: (LMB S) • Other: Boats and canoes prohibited. except: Daily creel limit—1 Atlantic salmon. • Other: Use of internal combustion MOODUS RESERVOIR (Upper, Lower), engines prohibited. NORWICH POND, Lyme (30 acres) MOHAWK POND, Cornwall-Goshen (16 acres) East Haddam (486 acres) L SL SL • Species: (T LMB S CP) • Species: (T LMB) BASS MANAGEMENT LAKE MUDDY POND, • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday • Species: (LMB CP CB S YP) Woodstock-Massachusetts (38 acres) April–last day February. April–last day February. • Largemouth & smallmouth bass: • Note: No public access. Connecticut • Other: Operation of motorboats • Other: Use of all motors prohibited. 12" to 18" protected slot limit. Daily or Massachusetts fishing license legal prohibited. creel limit—6 bass, only 1 may be 18" on entire pond. Connecticut regula- or greater. tions apply. • Other: 35 mph speed limit days, 6 mph MOHEGAN LAKE, Fairfield (15 acres) • Species: (LMB CP YP S BB) limit ½ hour after sunset to 8 a.m. PACHAUG POND, Griswold (841 acres) S • Other: 5 hp limit. • Species: (T) HSL NORTHERN PIKE LAKE • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday MOOSUP POND, Plainfield (96 acres) • Species: (LMB CP NP WP CB YP S BB) April–October 31. MUDGE POND (Silver Lake), • Species: (T S LMB YP BB) Sharon (207 acres) • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday April–last day February. L BASS MANAGEMENT LAKE PAGE PARK LAGOON, Bristol (1.5 acres) • Species: (LMB CP YP S BB) • Largemouth & smallmouth bass: S • Season: Open year-round. 12" to 18" protected slot limit. Daily creel limit—6 bass, only 1 may be 18" or greater. • Other: Motors limited to 7-½ hp. Speed PAINE POND, Ashford (2 acres) limit 6 mph. Use of motors prohibited from ½ hour after sunset to sunrise and S anytime within 200 feet of town beach. • Species: (T) Available from the • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday online DEEP Store April–last day February. NAUBESATUCK LAKE A FISHERIES NOW AVAILABLE (see Mansfield Hollow Reservoir) 1st Edition is back in stock. PAPERMILL POND (see Southford Falls Pond), GUIDE to LAKES Oxford-Southbury (2.4 acres)

and PONDS OF NELLS ROCK RESERVOIR (Hope Lake), CONNECTICUT Shelton (10.3 acres) S PARK POND, Winchester (74.9 acres) This Guide includes maps of more than Species: (T) L 120 lakes, ponds, and selected Connecticut River sites; full-color Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday • Species: (LMB S YP BB CP CB) photos, and informative sections on lake ecology, fisheries manage- April–last day February. • Other: 8 mph speed limit. ment and fish life histories. Also featured are color illustrations of Connecticut fish by world-renowned artist Joseph Tomelleri. NORTH FARMS RESERVOIR, PASTURE POND, Plainfield DEEP Store Wallingford (64 acres) S 860-424-3555 SL At Quinebaug Valley State Hatchery www.ct.gov/deep Softcover • Species: (LMB BB S CP CB) • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday • Other: 8 mph speed limit. April-September 30. Price does not include 6.35% CT sales tax and $24.95 mail/phone order shipping/handling charges.

38 2017 Connecticut Angler’s Guide Lakes and Ponds open year-round (no closed season) unless otherwise stated.

PATTACONK LAKE (Russell Jennings Pond), PICKETT’S POND (Osborndale State Park), • Other: 6 mph speed limit, except 25 ROSELAND LAKE, Woodstock (96 acres) Chester (56 acres) Derby (9 acres) mph from Tuesday after Labor Day to 3rd Saturday in April. Use of motors SL PHSCC PSC prohibited 11 p.m.–6 a.m. Access courtesy of Roseland Park. Open Carry-in boat access only (75 yards). COMMUNITY FISHING WATERS sunrise to sunset (closed thanksgiving Channel Catfish first stocked in 2012. and Christmas), unimproved boat launch, CATFISH LAKE • Species: (T, CC) fishing dock. Visit www.roselandlake.org Channel catfish first stocked in 2007. • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday QUILLINAN RESERVOIR, Ansonia for additional information on the park. • Species: (T LMB YP S CC CB) April–last day February. (12.2 acres) • Species: (LMB CA CP YP CB S T BB) • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday April–last day February. No facilities, walk in access only. April–last day February. • Other: 8 mph speed limit. Use of • Species: (LMB S YP) internal combustion engines prohibited PIERREPONT POND (Lake Naraneka), during July and August. Ridgefield (38 acres) QUINEBAUG LAKE (Wauregan Reservoir), ROSS POND, Killingly (31 acres) SC Killingly (88 acres) • Species: (LMB S) SC PATTAGANSETT LAKE, East Lyme • Other: Use of internal combustion SL • Species: (LMB CP S) (128 acres) engines prohibited. BASS MANAGEMENT LAKE / CATFISH LAKE • Other: Use of internal combustion L Channel catfish first stocked in 2012. engines prohibited. BASS MANAGEMENT LAKE • Species: (T LMB CP S CB YP) • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday • Species: (LMB CB S CP YP AE) PINE ACRES LAKE, Hampton (190 acres) April–last day February. • Largemouth & smallmouth bass: ROWAN'S POND • Largemouth & smallmouth bass: 12" to 18" protected slot limit. Daily PSL (Butternut Park Pond), Middletown (2.9 acres) creel limit—6 bass, only 1 may be 18" • Species: (LMB S YP BB) Daily creel limit—2, 16" minimum or greater. • Other: Use of internal combustion length. S • Other: 8 mph speed limit. See 2017 engines prohibited. • Other: Use of internal combustion COMMUNITY FISHING WATERS Boater’s Guide for summer exemption. engines prohibited. Trout and channel catfish first stocked in 2014. • Species: (T, CC, LMB, S) PINE LAKE (Shelton Reservoir #2), QUONNIPAUG LAKE, Guilford (99 acres) • Season: Open year-round. PECK POND (Keach Pond), Shelton (7.3 acres) • Trout: Season open 2nd Saturday in Thompson-Putnam-Rhode Island (14 acres) • Species: (LMB S) SL April-last day February. S • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday Note: Icefishing prohibited. • All Other Species: Season open year April–December 31. round. • Note: Connecticut or Rhode Island TROUT MANAGEMENT LAKE fishing license legal on entire pond. • Species: (T LMB BB SMB CP S YP Rhode Island regulations apply as AE CC) follows: LAKE POCOTOPAUG, East Hampton • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday SAINT MARTHA’S POND, Enfield • Species: (T LMB SMB CP YP S BB CB) (502 acres) April–March 31. • Season: 2nd Saturday April–last day S • Note: No public access. • Trout: From March 1–March 31, Daily February. • Species: (T S BB) • Species: (LMB SMB CP WA WP YP S) creel limit—1, 16" minimum length. • Largemouth & smallmouth bass: • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday • Walleye: Daily creel limit—2, 20" • Other: Motors limited to 6 hp. Opera- Daily creel limit—5 bass, 12" minimum April–last day February. minimum length. tion of motorboats prohibited from 9:00 length. p.m. to 6:00 a.m. • Chain Pickerel: Daily creel limit—5, 14" minimum length. SALMON BROOK POND, Glastonbury • Trout: No minimum length. Daily POWERS LAKE, East Lyme (144 acres) creel limit—5 from 2nd Saturday in RAINBOW RESERVOIR, Windsor (240 acres) S April to November 30th. Daily creel L • Species: (T S YP) limit—2 from December 1st to last day • Species: (LMB CP S YP CB) L • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday February. • Other: 8 mph speed limit. • Species: (LMB SMB S CP YP WP CB BB) April–last day February. • Other: 35 mph speed limit.

PERRY POND, Thompson-Massachusetts QUADDICK RESERVOIR, Thompson SALTERS POND, Manchester (3 acres) (4 acres) (408 acres) RED CEDAR LAKE, Lebanon (127 acres) • Note: Connecticut or Massachusetts PSLC S fishing license legal on entire pond. • Species: (S LMB CP) Launch open 8 a.m. until sunset from S Connecticut regulations apply. April 9th through December 1st. No maintained/developed launch facili- • Species: (LMB CP YP S BB) ties, informal cartop access only. NORTHERN PIKE LAKE • Species: (LMB YP S CB CP) • Species: (LMB NP CP CB YP BB S) LAKE SALTONSTALL, Branford-East Haven (422 acres) PICKEREL LAKE, Colchester-East Haddam (82 acres) ROGERS LAKE, Lyme-Old Lyme (260 acres) S LAKE QUASSAPAUG, Woodbury-Middlebury BASS MANAGEMENT LAKE / WALLEYE LAKE L (297 acres) L • Species: (T LMB S WA CB YP WP) BASS MANAGEMENT LAKE • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday • Note: No public access, icefishing TROUT MANAGEMENT LAKE • Species: (LMB CB S CP) April–November 30. prohibited. • Species: (T LMB CP CB YP BB S) • Largemouth & smallmouth bass: • Largemouth & smallmouth bass: • Species: (T SMB S CB BB LMB YP • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday 12" to 16" protected slot limit. Daily Daily creel limit—1 bass, 18" minimum CP) April–March 31. creel limit—6 bass, only 2 may be 16" length. • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday • Trout: From March 1–March 31, Daily or greater. • Other: Use of live bait prohibited. April–last day February. creel limit—1, 16" minimum length. • Other: 8 mph speed limit. See 2017 • Note: Fishing by permit from South • Trout: Daily creel limit—1, 18" minimum • Other: Motors limited to 135 hp. 6 Boater’s Guide for summer exemption. Central Connecticut Regional Water length. mph speed limit sunset to 10:00 a.m. Authority 203-401-2654. Boat rentals • Largemouth & smallmouth bass: See 2017 Boater’s Guide for additional available (no other vessels allowed). Daily creel limit—1 total, 18" minimum restrictions. length.

www.ct.gov/deep/fishing 39 Lakes & Ponds

Statewide regulations for seasons, legal methods, and limits (page 21) apply unless a site-specific regulation is listed for a water body.

SAUGATUCK RESERVOIR, SHENIPSIT LAKE, Ellington-Tolland-Vernon SQUANTZ POND, New Fairfield, Sherman STROH PARK POND, Windsor (1.4 acres) Easton-Redding-Weston (827 acres) (532 acres) (270 acres) • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday HS S PHSL April–November 30. WALLEYE LAKE • Species: (LMB CB SMB WP YP T CP) TROUT MANAGEMENT LAKE / WALLEYE LAKE • Species: (T LMB SMB S WA) • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday • Species: (CA WA T LMB SMB YP S WP) • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday April–October 31. • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday TAFTVILLE RESERVOIR, Norwich (25 acres) April–December 31. • Note: Use of boats restricted to those April–March 31. • Note: Permit required to fish— stored on site. Contact the Shenipsit • Trout: From March 1–March 31, 16" S contact Aquarion Water Company at Lake Boat Storage Facility (860- minimum length, Daily creel limit—1. Access through Raymond Ouellet Park. 203-452-3511. Fishing permitted from 875-1850) for additional information • Other: Motors on boats launched at BASS MANAGEMENT LAKE west shore only. concerning fishing access and to check Squantz Pond State Park launch ramp • Species: (LMB T S) • Other: The possession and use of any boat storage space availability. limited to 25 hp. 45 mph daytime speed • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday live alewives, blueback (glut or river) • Other: The possession and use of any limit, 25 mph from ½ hour after sunset April–last day February. herring, gizzard, hickory or threadfin live alewives, blueback (glut or river) to ½ hour before sunrise. Fishing from • Largemouth & smallmouth bass: shad as bait is prohibited. Boating, herring, gizzard, hickory or threadfin shore prohibited behind fence along Daily creel limit—2, 16" minimum length. wading and flotation devices prohibited. shad as bait is prohibited. shore in State Park from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

TAFTVILLE POND, Lisbon (117 acres) SAVIN LAKE, Lebanon (49 acres) SILVER LAKE (Peat Works Pond), Berlin-Meriden (146 acres) STANLEY QUARTER POND, New Britain L S (6.4 acres) Small town boat launch (ramp open April Carry-in boat access (30 yards). L 1 to November 30). • Species: (LMB YP WP S BB CP) CATFISH LAKE S • Species: (LMB, SMB CB S YP CA) • Other: Use of internal combustion Channel catfish first stocked in 2007. COMMUNITY FISHING WATERS engines prohibited. • Species: (CB LMB S BB CP CC) Trout and channel catfish first stocked • Other: 8 mph speed limit. See 2017 in 2014. Boater’s Guide for summer exemption. • Species: (S, T, CC, LMB) TANKERHOOSEN LAKES, Vernon (10 acres) • Season: Open year-round. • Species: (T LMB CP S YP BB) SAWMILL PARK POND, Ledyard • Trout: Season open 2nd Saturday in • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday April-last day February. April–last day February. S SIMSBURY TOWN PARK PONDS, Simsbury • All Other Species: Season open year • Species: (T) • Species: (S) round. • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday April–last day February. April–June 15. TETREAULT POND, Killingly (39 acres) STARRET POND (see Huntington Pond) • Species: (CP S YP) • Other: 8 mph speed limit. SCHREEDER POND (Chatfield Hollow Pond), SOCHRIN POND, Seymour Killingworth (4 acres) • Children’s Pond: Fishing restricted to STATE LINE POND, Stafford (75 acres) PSC children under age 16. TOLLGATE POND, Greenwich (7 acres) In Chatfield Hollow State Park. Walk-in • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday S • Species: (LMB S BB) access only during off-season. April–November 30. Next to Route 32. • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday TROUT PARK • Species: (YP S BB CP) April–October 31. • Species: (T S) • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday SOMERSVILLE MILL POND (Scantic River), April–last day February. Somers (41 acres) LAKE STIBBS (Southbury Training School Pond), TWIN BROOKS PARK POND, • Trout: Daily creel limit—2. Southbury (5 acres) Trumbull (4 acres) • Other: All vessels prohibited. S Unimproved town launch. S • Species: (T) • Species: (T LMB S CP CB YP BB) • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday • Species: (T) • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday April–last day February. • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday SCOVILLE RESERVOIR, Wolcott (121 acres) April–last day February. • Note: Ice fishing prohibited by town April–last day February. HSL • Other: 6 mph speed limit. ordinance. CATFISH LAKE Channel catfish first stocked in 2013. STILLWATER POND, Torrington (94 acres) TYLER POND, Goshen (187 acres) • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday SOUTHFORD FALLS POND (Papermill Pond), of April–last day February. Oxford-Southbury (2.4 acres) SL L • Species: (T LMB S YP CP CB) PHSC CATFISH LAKE • Species: (T YP LMB CB CP BB S) • Other: Operation of vessels prohibited In Southford Falls State Park. Channel catfish first stocked in 2012. • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday from sunset to sunrise. Use or posses- • Species: (T LMB YP S) April–last day February. sion of internal combustion engines TROUT PARK • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday prohibited. • Species: (T S) April–last day February. • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday • Other: Use of internal combustion April–last day February. engines prohibited. UNCAS LAKE (Hog Pond), Lyme (69 acres) • Trout: Daily creel limit—2. SEYMOUR RESERVOIRS (1, 2, 3 & 4), PSL Oxford (4.4, 35, 11.5 & 37.4 acres) • Species: (T LMB AE CP YP S) No facilities, walk-in access only. STRATTON BROOK PARK POND, • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday SOUTH SPECTACLE POND, Kent (85 acres) • Species: (LMB S YP) Simsbury (2.3 acres) April–last day February. Public right-of-way, not passable for cars. • Other: Operation of motorboats • Species: (LMB YP S) PSC prohibited. TROUT PARK SHAW LAKE (see Lake Hayward) • Species: (T) • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday SPAULDING POND (see Mohegan Park Pond) April–last day February. • Trout: Daily creel limit—2 SHELTON RESERVOIR #2 (see Pine Lake)

40 2017 Connecticut Angler’s Guide Lakes and Ponds open year-round (no closed season) unless otherwise stated.

UPPER FULTON PARK POND, WAUREGAN RESERVOIR WEST TWIN LAKE (Washinee Lake), WONONSKOPOMUC LAKE (Lakeville Lake), Waterbury (2.1 acres) (see Quinebaug Lake) Salisbury (290 acres) Salisbury (348 acres) • Species: (CP LMB S CB YP) L S • Other: 35 mph daytime speed limit, 6 COMMUNITY FISHING WATERS BASS MANAGEMENT LAKE mph from ½ hour after sunset to ½ hour • Species: (T) • Species: (T LMB CP YP S BB) WEST BRANCH (Hogback) RESERVOIR, after sunrise. Also 6 mph within 200 • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday Hartland-Colebrook (201 acres) feet of vessel or dock. The possession April–last day February. April–October 31. and use of any live alewives, blueback • Largemouth & smallmouth bass: C (glut or river) herring, gizzard, hickory • Species: (T YP S SMB RA) 12" to 16" protected slot limit. Daily or threadfin shad as bait is prohibited. • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday creel limit—6 bass, only 2 may be 16" VALLEY FALLS POND, Vernon (4.1 acres) April–last day February. or greater. S C • Other: The possession and use of any • Other: The possession and use of any live alewives, blueback (glut or river) WHARTON POND (Allen Brook live alewives, blueback (glut or river) TROUT PARK herring, gizzard, hickory or threadfin Pond), Wallingford (5 acres) herring, gizzard, hickory or threadfin • Species: (T S) shad as bait is prohibited. shad as bait is prohibited. Motors • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday PSC restricted to 12 cu in. Town operated April–last day February. In Wharton Brook State Park. boat launch-fee charged. Launch open • Trout: Daily creel limit—2 daily 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. from 2nd Saturday TROUT PARK WEST HILL POND, New Hartford-Barkhamsted in April to Labor Day. From Labor Day • Species: (T) (261 acres) through October 31st launch open from 7 • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday a.m. to 8 p.m. weekdays, and from 7 a.m. WALKERS RESERVOIR (East), Vernon April–last day February. L to 12 noon on weekends. Boat livery. (5.1 acres) TROUT MANAGEMENT LAKE / KOKANEE LAKE • Trout: Daily creel limit—2. • Species: (T K SMB YP S LMB RA) • Other: All vessels prohibited. HS • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday • Species: (T YP S BB) April–March 31. WOOD CREEK POND, Norfolk (148 acres) • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday • Trout: from March 1–March 31, 16" April–October 31. WHITNEY FLOOD CONTROL POND (Patten Brook), minimum length, Daily creel limit—1. L • Other: All vessels prohibited. Stafford (2 acres) • Trout & Kokanee combined: Daily • Species: (LMB BB YP CP) creel limit—8 for both species in aggre- S gate, of which no more than 5 may • Species: (S BB CP) WANGUMBAUG LAKE be trout and no more than 5 may be WYASSUP LAKE, North Stonington (99 acres) (see Coventry Lake), Coventry kokanee salmon. • Other: The possession and use of any L live alewives, blueback (glut or river) WILLIAMS POND (Lake Williams), BASS MANAGEMENT LAKE herring, gizzard, hickory or threadfin Lebanon (272 acres) • Species: (CP YP T LMB BB AE) shad as bait is prohibited. 15 mph LAKE WARAMAUG, Kent-Warren-Washington • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday speed limit except 6 mph between S (656 acres) April–last day February. sunset and sunrise. From Memorial Informal cartop access from dam on • Largemouth & smallmouth bass: Day through September 15th motors Route 207. PGC Daily creel limit—2, 16" minimum Carry-in boat access in Lake Waramaug limited to 8 hp. • Species: (LMB CP YP S BB CB) length. State Park (approximately 100 foot carry to • Other: 8 mph speed limit. See 2017 water). Boating access is also available to Boater’s Guide for summer exemption. the general public at the town boat launch WINCHESTER LAKE, Winchester (246 acres) (annual launch permit fee and daily inspec- WEST PEQUONNOCK RESERVOIR, tion fee) in Washington. Required inspection Monroe (1.4 acres) L of boat and trailer for invasive plants. Boats • Species: (LMB S) NORTHERN PIKE LAKE ZEINER POND (Lake Winfield), and trailers failing inspection will not be • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday • Species: (LMB CP YP S NP CB BB) Plymouth (16 acres) allowed to use launch. Days and hours April–December 31. • Other: 8 mph speed limit. of operation vary seasonally, contact the • Note: Permit required to fish— S Washington Park and Recreation Depart- contact Aquarion Water Company at No longer stocked with trout. ment (860-868-1519) for more information. 203-452-3511. • Season: Open year-round. • Species: (LMB SMB CP YP BB S) LAKE WINFIELD (see Zeiner Pond), Plymouth

WEST SIDE POND, Goshen (42 acres) ZEMKO POND, Salem (8 acres) WARDS MILLPOND (Branford River), LAKE WINNEMAUG, Watertown (113 acres) Walk-in access from Round Hill Road Branford (7.3 acres) L (300 yards). BASS MANAGEMENT LAKE • Species: (LMB S CB WP BB YP) • Species: (LMB S) S • Species: (T LMB YP S BB) • Other: 7 mph speed limit. Vessels with • Species: (T) • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday internal combustion engines attached • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday April–last day February. are prohibited. April–last day February. • Largemouth & smallmouth bass: LAKE ZOAR, Monroe-Oxford- 12" to 16" protected slot limit. Daily Newtown-Southbury (909 acres) creel limit—6 bass, only 2 may be 16" LAKE WINTERGREEN, Hamden (44 acres) or greater. G L WARNER POND (Kazan’s Pond), SCC WALLEYE LAKE Newtown. (11.7 acres) Walleye first stocked in 2011. COMMUNITY FISHING WATERS / No facilities, walk in access only. From the Shepaug Dam to the Steven- CATFISH LAKE • Species: (LMB S YP) WEST THOMPSON LAKE, son Dam. Channel catfish first stocked in 2007. Thompson (239 acres) • Species: (SMB WP LMB CB WC S West Rock Ridge State Park — Public YP WA) C right-of-way not passable to cars. GSL • Other: 45 mph speed limit daytime, 25 WALLEYE LAKE • Species: (S LMB YP T CC) WASHINGTON PARK POND, Windsor mph from ½ hour after sunset to ½ hour Walleye first stocked in 2012. • Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday • Season: Open year-round. before sunrise. • Species: (LMB SMB CP CB WP S YP CA) April–last day February. • Other: Speed limit 5 mph. • Other: Use of internal combustion engines prohibited.

www.ct.gov/deep/fishing 41 A Guide to Catchable Freshwater Fish in Connecticut

Not sure about your catch? Subtle differences between fish include the shape of the body-long vs. round, whiskers, shape of the mouth, and if there is a small fleshy lobe-like fin on the back near the tail. Determine which of these traits match your fish, then look to the photos and specific details to make a positive identification. If you would like a professional opinion, email a clear photo of the entire fish [email protected] .

Trout Bass, Perch & Walleye

Adult 14"

6" Juvenile 11" 16" Brook Trout have a dark body with light spots and a Brown Trout have a light body with dark spots. The Largemouth Bass have a dark stripe along the side worm-like pattern on back, head, and sides. The lower lower fins are typically brown, tan, or nearly colorless of the body. The end of the jaw typically reaches past fins are typically red-orange with a white leading edge. and may have a white leading edge. Wild Brown Trout the eye. Stocked Brook Trout are typically less colorful than may have bright red and orange spots and an orange wild Brook Trout. adipose fin. The tail is more rounded than forked. Brown Trout and Atlantic Salmon look very similar.

16" Smallmouth Bass may have vertical stripes on the side of the body. The end of the jaw typically reaches to the center of the eye. 8" 14"

Tiger Trout (hybrid) have worm-like markings covering Rainbow Trout have a light body with dark spots the entire body. They usually do not have spots. Tiger on the head and the tail. There is usually a pink band Trout are a sterile cross between a male Brook Trout along each side. and a female Brown Trout.

32"

Striped Bass have a light body, somewhat silver in Salmon color with a series of horizontal black bands along the side. Male Kokanee Salmon are silver without spots until spawning season when they undergo significant changes in shape and color, turning red. Males often develop a large hooked jaw (kype). Kokanee Salmon 16" die after they spawn.

12" White Perch have a silver body and lack any spots or bands.

Adult, brown form Juvenile

6" 14" 30" Yellow Perch have a yellow body with dark vertical bands and orange lower fins. Atlantic Salmon have a light body with dark spots. The adipose fin is brown or dark brown. The lower fins are brown with no color on the leading edge. There may Adult, silver form be spots on the head and tail. Wild Atlantic Salmon recently entering freshwater typically are silver, turning brown after being in freshwater for a while. Small Atlantic Salmon will have a deeply-forked tail. Atlantic 18" Salmon are stocked as fry into many tributaries of 30" the Connecticut River. All Atlantic Salmon must be Walleye generally have a greenish or brownish back © Joseph Tomelleri immediately released, unless it is from one of the areas fading to a white belly. They may have irregular dark the Inland Fisheries Division stocks with surplus adult green blotches on the body. They have very large and Atlantic Salmon (see page 28). sharp teeth.

42 2017 Connecticut Angler’s Guide The number indicated near each fish represents the length of the individual fish shown in the photo. It is not a minimum size regulation or average fish length.

Sunfish & Bass Bullhead & Catfish

8" 8" 6" Yellow Bullhead have a rounded tail and the chin Brown Bullhead have a rounded tail and the chin whiskers are light colored. Both the belly and chin whiskers are dark colored. Both the belly and chin are Pumpkinseeds have turquoise markings on the face are usually yellow. light colored and usually white. and have a red dot on the gill cover.

18" 16" Channel Catfish have a forked tail (pointed tips), very White Catfish have a forked tail (rounded tips), very 8" long whiskers on the side of the mouth, and dark chin long whiskers on the side of the mouth, and light chin whiskers. Compared to the white catfish, the channel whiskers. Compared to the channel catfish the white Bluegills do not have turquoise markings on the face catfish has a narrow head. catfish has a broad head. The eyes may have a light and do not have a red spot on the gill cover. blue band around the iris.

Pike & Pickerel Carp & Sucker

6" 36" 16" Redbreast sunfish have some turquoise markings on the face. The gill cover has a long oval dark “ear”. Northern Pike have a dark colored body with light White Sucker has a streamlined body with a round The belly is usually a bright orange-red. spots. The entire cheek and only ½ of the gill cover is mouth. The body is usually dark brown on top and covered in scales. The mouth has large and sharp teeth. bronze color on the side.

26" 30" 10" Chain Pickerel have a yellow colored body with a Common Carp can be a very large fish (up to 40 Rock Bass have a very large red-colored eye. The dark “chain-like” pattern. Both the cheek and gill cover pounds) and have large scales. Carp have a small pattern on the side of the body resembles camou- are completely covered with scales. Typically there is whisker on each side of the mouth. flage print. a dark vertical band below the eye. The mouth has large and sharp teeth.

This guide intended to provide some general descriptive information and a photo typical of each species featured. These represent fish that are most often caught in freshwaters of CT. The approximate size of the pictured fish is listed. For more detailed information please refer to the “A Pictorial Guide to Freshwater Fishes of Connecticut” by Robert P. 14" Jacobs and Eileen B. O’Donnell. Available at the DEEP store www.ct.gov/DEEP/Store. Calico Bass (crappie) have a distinct curved profile For questions about fish or fishing in Connecticut, please contact the Inland Fisheries from the head to the dorsal fin. The body is silvery or Division at 860-424-Fish or email: [email protected] or visit our web page at . brass colored with dark spots, and very thin when www.ct.gov/deep/fishing viewed looking from head on. All photographs by Robert P. Jacobs, CT DEEP IFD www.ct.gov/deep/fishing 43 Rivers & Streams

Statewide regulations for seasons, legal methods, and limits (page 21) apply unless a site-specific regulation is listed for a water body. Rivers & streams open season is from 6:00 am on the 2nd Saturday in April to the last day of February unless otherwise stated. The following rivers and streams or sections thereof are available for public fishing through the courtesy of the landowner, or where indicated by posters, through cooperative agreement, lease, or state ownership. Determining fishing regulations is a simple two-step process: Public Access to Fishing Waters 1. Check the regulation table (page 21) for general statewide Species, Public access to fishing waters is restricted to rights-of-way designated by Legal Methods, and Limits regulations. poster or by permission of landowner. On state-leased streams, fishermen 2. Look up the waterbody in the alphabetical list of lake and ponds to must wade or stay near the stream bank as indicated by signs. find any special regulations that apply. If no site-specific regulations are listed for a waterbody, statewide regulations apply. Rivers and Streams Legend Special Management Areas For Trout (alternative regulations such as L Public boat launching area extended seasons, minimum lengths & reduced creel limits): Facilities for disabled • Trout Management Areas (TMA): High quality fisheries offering H year-round opportunities. G State campground • Trout Parks: Easy to fish, frequently stocked areas. C Family friendly fishing location • Trophy Trout Streams: Stocked with a higher proportion of larger fish. State picnic area • Sea-run Trout Streams: Areas where DEEP is working to establish P populations of anadromous brown trout. Italics Access/stocking location information • Wild Trout Management Areas (WTMA): There are three classes (T BN) Indicates degree of stocking and/or presence of of WTMAs: wild trout: —— Class 1: Catch and release only, open year-round, use of a single- T Light/moderately stocked hook artificial lures or flies only. Heavily stocked —— Class 2: Two (2) trout per angler per day limit, trout must be 12” T or larger to keep from opening day to last day of February. BK Wild brook trout —— Class 3: Five (5) fish per angler per day limit, trout must be 9” or BN Wild brown trout larger to keep from opening day to last day of February. Other fish species are listed for several rivers, see Key to Fish Species Abbreviations in Lakes and Ponds section (page 32). Lower River/Tidal Waters Designated rivers & streams with no closed season including the entire Connecticut and Thames rivers, and downstream portions of the BASS Special Management Areas are Coginchaug, Farmington, Housatonic, Mattabesset, Mystic, Naugatuck, TROUT color-coded for major gamefish Niantic, Quinnipiac, Salmon, and Yantic rivers. BROODSTOCK SALMON species

ALLYNS BROOK, Durham (T) BANTAM RIVER (West Branch), Litchfield (T) BANTAM RIVER (outlet from Bantam Lake), BEAVER BROOK, Windham-Scotland (BK BN) Intermittent sections from Route 17 Intermittent sections from the Goshen- Litchfield (T) MERRICK BROOK WILD TROUT MANAGEMENT downstream to the Coginchaug River. Litchfield town line at Brooks Road Downstream of Bantam Lake from Ban- AREA (Class 1) through Route 63 to the confluence with tam to West Morris Road in West Morris. In Talbot Wildlife Management Area from the Bantam River Inlet near Route 202. • Methods: Fly fishing only where indi- Route 14 to Merrick Brook: cated by posters. • Season: Open year-round. ANGUILLA BROOK, Stonington (T) • Methods: Barbless single-hook artifi- Intermittent sections from Route 184 cial lures and flies only. downstream to Route 1. BANTAM RIVER (inlet to Bantam Lake), • Trout: Catch and Release Only. Litchfield (T) BARTLETT BROOK, Lebanon (T) Intermittent sections from Route 202 to Intermittent sections from Brewster Pond approximately one half mile upstream of downstream to Yantic River. ASPETUCK RIVER, Easton-Weston (T) confluence with Bantam Lake. BELCHER BROOK, Berlin (T) Intermittent sections from Route 58 along Intermittent sections from Four Rod Road Route 136 to the Saugatuck River. to Lower Lane. BEACON HILL BROOK, Bethany-Naugatuck-Beacon Falls (T BK BN) From Route 63 crossing in Bethany to confluence with Naugatuck River. BIBLE ROCK BROOK, Haddam-Middletown (T) WHAT ARE “THERMAL REFUGES”? WILD TROUT MANAGEMENT AREA (Class 3) P From Route 63 crossing in Naugatuck Intermittent sections along Route 154. During the hot summer months, heat stressed fish in major rivers, par- downstream to confluence with Nau- gatuck River: ticularly trout, often seek cool water refuge by congregating at the mouths • Trout: 9" minimum length. of tributary streams where cooler water is entering. A number of these BIGELOW BROOK, Eastford-Union (T) cool water refuges on the Housatonic River, Naugatuck River, and Salmon Intermittent sections from Mashapaug Lake to Natchaug River. River have been identified and under current regulations are closed to all BEAVER BROOK, Barkhamsted (T BK) fishing from June 15 through September 15, inclusive. These closures Intermittent sections from along Park are intended to protect fish from any additional stress during periods of Road (1/2 mile north of Day Road) to very warm water temperatures. In 2016 due to high water temperatures Route 318. BIRDSEYE BROOK, Cornwall (T) and low river flows, DEEP issued emergency declarations temporarily Within the Mohawk Ski Area. closing eight locations on the West Branch and mainstem Farmington Rivers and extending the closure at one location on the Housatonic River. BEAVER BROOK (includes Fire Ponds), The closed areas are delineated by signs posted by DEEP. Franklin-Sprague (T BN) Intermittent sections along Route 207 to the Shetucket River.

44 2017 Connecticut Angler’s Guide Statewide regulations for seasons, legal methods, and limits (page 21) apply unless a site-specific regulation is listed for a water body. Rivers & streams open season is from 6:00 am on the 2nd Saturday in April to the last day of February unless otherwise stated.

BLACKBERRY RIVER, Norfolk-Canaan (T BN) BUNNELL BROOK (Burlington Brook), COGINCHAUG RIVER, PEQUABUCK RIVER TROUT MANAGEMENT From ½ mile west of Route 272 along Burlington (T) Durham-Middlefield-Middletown (T) AREA Route 44 and Lower River Road to con- From Covey Road, then along Route 4 to Intermittent sections from Route 17 in In Bristol from Artisan Street downstream fluence with Housatonic River. confluence with Farmington River: Durham through Wadsworth Falls State to confluence with Pequabuck River. • Trout: 9" minimum length downstream Park. • Season: Open year-round. WILD TROUT MANAGEMENT AREA (Class 3) of Covey Road. • Trout: Catch and Release Only. From Whiting River to confluence with LOWER RIVER/TIDAL WATERS—no closed Housatonic River. season • Trout: 9" minimum length. Downstream from Route 3 bridge to con- BUTTERNUT BROOK, Litchfield (T) fluence with Mattabesset River. COPPS BROOK, Stonington (BK) • Trout: Daily creel limit—2, 15" minimum Upstream of Route 202 to confluence Access from Route 184. length. BLACKLEDGE RIVER, with the Bantam River. Bolton-Hebron-Marlborough (T) Intermittent state-owned sections from CORY BROOK, Canterbury (T) CONNECTICUT RIVER, Enfield to Old Lyme Gay City State Park to the Salmon River. BUTTONBALL BROOK, Chaplin (T) Intermittent sections from Gooseneck • Trout: 9" minimum length — Down- Intermittent sections from Route 6 down- PG HL Hill Road downstream to Aspinook Pond. stream of Route 94, Glastonbury, to stream to the Natchaug River. LOWER RIVER/TIDAL WATERS—no closed the Salmon River. season Includes entire river in Connecticut CRYSTAL LAKE BROOK, Stafford (T) • Species: (AE CA CB LMB NP SMB S BYRAM RIVER, Greenwich (T) Intermittent sections along Route 30. BLACKWELL BROOK, Brooklyn-Canterbury (T) WA WC WP YP) Includes East Branch. From Merritt Park- • Large & smallmouth bass: 12" Intermittent sections from Woodward way to Glenville Road (Glen Ridge Road). minimum length. Road to the Quinebaug River. • Trout: Daily creel limit—2, 15" minimum DEEP BROOK, Newtown (BK BN) length. • Northern pike: 24" minimum length. WILD TROUT MANAGEMENT AREA (Class 1) CANDLEWOOD HILL BROOK, Haddam (T) From Wasserman Way to confluence with BLADENS RIVER, Woodbridge-Seymour (T BK) • Alewives/Blueback Herring: Special Intermittent sections along Candlewood closures may be in effect (see page 28). Pootatuck River: From ¼ mile below Bethmour Road along Hill Road. • Season: Open year-round. Route 67 to ¼ mile below Chatfield Street, • Methods: Barbless single-hook artifi- includes tributary (Hopp Brook) along cial lures and flies only. Miller Road. COPPERMINE BROOK, • Trout: Catch and Release Only. CARR BROOK (Cox Brook), Portland (T) Burlington-Bristol (T BK BN) • Note: Wild Trout Management Area Intermittent sections from South Road Intermittent sections from South Main includes a portion of the Pootatuck River upstream and downstream of the BRANCH BROOK, Watertown (T) downstream to Penfield Hill Road. Street to Stevens Street. confluence as posted by DEEP. PG TROUT PARK Within Black Rock State Park: CARSE BROOK, Sharon (T) • Trout: Daily creel limit—2. Smith Hill Road to Housatonic River.

BRANFORD RIVER, Branford-North Branford (T) CEDAR SWAMP BROOK, Stafford (T BK) Intermittent sections from Route 22 to Nipmuck State Forest from Crooked Road I-95. downstream to Roaring Brook.

BROAD BROOK, Ellington (T BK BN) CEDAR SWAMP BROOK, Sterling (BK) Intermittent sections along Muddy Brook Intermittent sections from Portertown Road, and from Broad Brook Mill Pond Road to the Moosup River. to Scantic River.

CHATFIELD HOLLOW BROOK, BROAD BROOK, Preston (T) Killingworth (T) Intermittent sections from Swantown P C Road to Old Jewett City Road. TROUT PARK In Chatfield Hollow State Park: • Trout: Daily creel limit—2. BUCK BROOK, Portland (T) In Meshomasic State Forest. CHERRY BROOK, Canton (T BN BK) From Routes 179 and 309, along Route BUCKHORN BROOK, Enfield (T) 179 through Canton Center. • Trout: 9" minimum length downstream Intermittent sections from Town Farm of Route 179. Road downstream to the Scantic River.

CHOATE BROOK, Preston (T) BUNGEE BROOK, Eastford-Woodstock (T) Intermittent sections from Route 165 to Intermittent sections from Route 171 the Quinebaug River. downstream to the Still River.

www.ct.gov/deep/fishing 45 Rivers & Streams

DEEP RIVER, Deep River (T) EIGHTMILE RIVER (East Branch), of the confluence with the Still River FIVEMILE RIVER, Intermittent sections from Hoopole Salem-East Haddam-Lyme (T) (Barkhamsted). Thompson-Putnam-Killingly (T) Hill Road downstream to Pratt Read Intermittent sections along Darling Road • Season: Open year-round. P Reservoir. and Salem Road. • Trout: Intermittent sections from New Road to • Trout: 9" Minimum length — Down- »»Catch and Release Only from the Quinebaug River. stream of Witch Meadow Road, Salem September 1 to 6:00 a.m. 2nd to the Eightmile River. Saturday in April. DELPHI BROOK, Stafford (BK BN) »»Daily creel limit—2, 12" minimum length from 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday Intermittent sections along Route 19. FLAT BROOK, East Hampton (T BK) in April to August 31. EIGHTMILE RIVER, Southington (BN) Intermittent sections along Route 16 From the old footbridge abutments downstream to the Salmon River. WILD TROUT MANAGEMENT AREA (Class 1) (Barkhamsted) downstream to the Route DENISON BROOK, Voluntown (BK) Entire river in Southington: 219 bridge (New Hartford). This area In Pachaug State Forest, south of Route • Season: Open year-round. includes all of the former West Branch 138. • Methods: Barbless single-hook artifi- Farmington River Trout Management FRENCH RIVER, Thompson (T) cial lures and flies only. Area: Intermittent sections from North Grosve- • Trout: Catch and Release Only. • Season: Open year-round. nordale Pond to Blain Road. • Methods: Barbless hooks only DICKENSON CREEK, Marlborough (T) • Trout: Catch and Release Only. Salmon River State Forest. EKONK BROOK, Plainfield (T) From the Route 219 bridge (New Hart- • Trout: 9" minimum length-Downstream FRESHWATER BROOK, Enfield (T) of Route 66 to the Salmon River. Intermittent sections from Route 14A ford) downstream to the route 177 Bridge Intermittent sections from Route 220 downstream to the Moosup River. (Unionville): • Season: Open year-round. downstream to the Connecticut River. • Trout: EAST ASPETUCK RIVER, »»Catch and Release Only from New Milford-New Preston (T BN) EXETER BROOK, Lebanon (BK) September 1 to 6:00 a.m. 2nd FURNACE BROOK, Cornwall Bridge (BN) Intermittent sections accessible from In Bartlett Brook Wildlife Management Saturday in April. Routes 45 and 202 to Wells Road. Area. »»Daily creel limit—2, 12" minimum P length from 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday From the bridge on Route 4 upstream WILD TROUT MANAGEMENT AREA (Class 3) in April to August 31. approximately 1½ miles, as posted. From Lake Waramaug to confluence with LOWER FARMINGTON RIVER Housatonic River. FALLS RIVER, Essex-Westbrook (T) HEATHER REAVES WILD TROUT • Trout: 9" minimum length. Farmington to Windsor; From Route 177 MANAGEMENT AREA (Class 2) Intermittent sections along Witchhazel bridge in Unionville Center downstream Upstream from Housatonic River as Road downstream to Mares Hill Road. to Rainbow Reservoir. posted. • Trout: Daily creel limit—5, 9" Minimum • Trout: Daily creel limit—2, 12" minimum EAST RIVER, Guilford (T) length. length. Intermittent sections from Guilford Lakes FARM RIVER, Branford-East LOWER RIVER/TIDAL WATERS—no closed downstream to Route 1. Haven-North Branford (T BN) season Intermittent sections from Northford to Windsor; From mouth of tailrace canal FURNACE BROOK, Stafford (T) I-95. below Rainbow Dam to confluence with Intermittent sections from Staffordville EAST SWAMP BROOK, Bethel (T) Connecticut River. WILD TROUT MANAGEMENT AREA (Class 3) • Trout: Daily creel limit—2, 15" minimum Lake along Route 19 and Furnace Brook Intermittent sections from Meckaur From Mill Road (downstream of Pages length. Road to Glenville Pond. Municipal Park through Plumtrees Road Millpond) in North Branford to I-95 bridge • Note: All fishing prohibited in tail- to Route 302 (includes unnamed flow- (East Haven): race canal and from mouth of tailrace through pond in Meckauer /Bennet • Trout: 9" minimum length. upstream to Rainbow Dam. Memorial Park). GARDNER BROOK, Bozrah (T) SEA RUN TROUT STREAM Intermittent sections from Gardner Lake Downstream of I-95 bridge: to Fitchville Pond. • Season: Open year-round. FAWN BROOK, Hebron-Marlborough (T) EIGHT MILE BROOK, Middlebury-Oxford (T) • Trout: Daily creel limit—2, 15" minimum length. Intermittent sections from Route 85 to P Route 66 (Salmon River State Forest). GIFFORD BROOK, Columbia (T) FARMILL RIVER, Monroe-Shelton-Stratford (T) Intermittent sections from Judd Hill, • Trout: 9" minimum length downstream At Route 87. through Larkin Trail State Park and South- Intermittent sections from Moose Hill of Slocum Road. ford Falls State Park to Route 188, then Road (Monroe) to Route 110 just above to Barry Road. Housatonic River. TROUT PARK FAWN BROOK (West Branch), GILLETTE BROOK, Somers (BK) Within Southford Falls State Park: Marlborough-Hebron (T) Intermittent sections from Battle Street • Trout: Daily creel limit—2. FARMINGTON RIVER (West Branch and Intermittent sections from Martin Road downstream to the Scantic River. Mainstem), Hartland-Barkhamsted-New to Route 66. Hartford-Canton-Burlington-Farmington-Avon- • Trout: 9" minimum length downstream Simsbury-Bloomfield-East Granby-Windsor (T) EIGHTMILE RIVER, East Haddam-Lyme (T) of Slocum Road. GREAT BROOK, Chester (T) C GPHC Intermittent sections along Wig Hill Road. PGH Intermittent sections from Goodwin Devils Hopyard State Park and intermit- Dam to RT 4 (Farmington Center). Then FENTON RIVER, Mansfield-Willington (T BN) tent sections below the park to Hamburg from Tariffville Memorial Park (Simsbury) Cove. Intermittent sections from Moose through the Tariffville Gorge (Bloomfield). GREAT MEADOW BROOK, Voluntown (T) • Trout: 9" Minimum length — From Meadow Road to Mansfield Hollow Then from mouth of tailrace canal below Access in Pachaug State Forest. Foxtown Road to the dam at Mt. Archer Reservoir. Rainbow Dam to confluence with Con- Road. necticut River. WILD TROUT MANAGEMENT AREA (Class 3) SEA RUN TROUT STREAM FARMINGTON RIVER TROUT Entire stream in Mansfield and Willington: GREEN FALLS RIVER, Downstream of dam at Mt. Archer Road: MANAGEMENT AREA • Trout: 9" Minimum length. • Season: Open year-round. North Stonington-Voluntown (T) From Goodwin dam (Hartland) down- • Trout: Daily creel limit—2, 15" Minimum Intermittent sections from Green Falls stream to the old footbridge abutments length. Dam to Rhode Island. approximately 1.4 miles downstream

46 2017 Connecticut Angler’s Guide Statewide regulations for seasons, legal methods, and limits (page 21) apply unless a site-specific regulation is listed for a water body. Rivers & streams open season is from 6:00 am on the 2nd Saturday in April to the last day of February unless otherwise stated.

GULF STREAM, Somers (T BK) HOP RIVER (includes Johnsons Pond), BULL’S BRIDGE TROUT MANAGEMENT AREA / Brook, Gates and Hallville Ponds, and BASS MANAGEMENT AREA Poquetanuck Brook. Intermittent sections from Gulf Road Bolton-Coventry (T) From Bull’s Bridge Impoundment Dam (Kent) Marsh downstream to the Scantic River. Intermittent sections along Route 6 to the to Gaylordsville Bridge (Route 7) in New Mil- Willimantic River. ford, includes Ten Mile River from NY border to confluence with Housatonic River: JEREMY RIVER, Hebron-Colchester (T) HALEYS BROOK, Groton (BK) • Season: Open year-round except in Intermittent Sections from Route 66 to areas within 100 feet of tributaries that the Blackledge River. Intermittent sections along Route 184. HORSE BROOK, Plainfield (T) are closed to all fishing from June 15 to • Trout: 9" minimum length — Down- Intermittent sections from Pickett Road September 15, as posted. stream of Grayville Road to the Salmon downstream to Packerville Road. • Trout: Catch and Release Only. River. HALL MEADOW BROOK, • Large & Smallmouth bass: Catch Goshen-Torrington (T BK) and Release Only. HOUSATONIC RIVER (includes all Along Route 272 from Hall Meadow Cem- LOWER RIVER/TIDAL WATERS— JOE CLARK BROOK, Ledyard (BK) etery to the Hall Meadow Brook Reservoir impoundments from Bleachery Dam to no closed season Intermittent sections from Church Hill Dam (John Minetto State Park). the Massachusetts line), Salisbury- Derby, Orange, Shelton, Milford, Stratford Road downstream to Poquetanuck Cove. Canaan-Sharon-Cornwall-Kent-Sherman- Downstream from dam on Lake Housatonic New Milford (T SMB NP CA) (Derby). Walk-in access at Derby Dam off For Housatonic River Flows at Falls Vil- Route 34 (Derby) and Canal Street (Shelton). HAMMONASSET RIVER, lage: 1-888-417-4837. • Trout: Daily creel limit—2, 15" minimum JORDAN BROOK, Waterford (BK) Clinton-Killingworth-Madison (T) • Thermal refuges: Areas within one length. Intermittent sections along entire length. Intermittent sections from Route 80 to hundred feet of signs indicating such Route 1. closure posted by DEEP at or near the mouths of Kent Falls Brook and Mace- TROUT MANAGEMENT AREA donia Brook are closed to all fishing HOWELLS POND BROOK, Hartland (T) From Lake Hammonasset Dam to Chest- JUDD BROOK, Colchester-Hebron from June 15 to September 15. From Howell’s Pond in Tunxis State For- nut Hill Road: • Trout: 9" minimum length downstream est to Mill Street, approximately 1½ miles • Season: Open year-round. HOUSATONIC RIVER TROUT MANAGEMENT AREA of Old Colchester Road to Jeremy River. above West Branch Reservoir. • Trout: C »»Catch and Release Only from PG From bridge crossing at Routes 112 and September 1 to 6:00 a.m. 2nd 7 (Salisbury/Canaan) to bridge at Routes KENT FALLS BROOK, Kent (T BK BN) Saturday in April. HUNTS BROOK, Montville-Waterford (T) 4 and 7 (Cornwall/Sharon): »»Daily creel limit—2, 9" minimum length • Season: Open year-round except in Intermittent sections from Miller’s Pond C from 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday in April P areas within 100 feet of signs indi- to Smith Cove. Below base of falls. to August 31. cating such closure posted by DEEP TROUT PARK SEA RUN TROUT STREAM at or near the mouths of tributaries that Within Kent Falls State Park: • From Chestnut Hill Road to the are closed to all fishing from June 15 to INDIAN HOLE BROOK, Shelton (T) • Trout: Daily creel limit—2 breached dam located 300 feet September 15. upstream of River Road: • Trout: Catch and Release Only. P »»Season: Open from 6:00 a.m. 2nd • Methods: Fly fishing only in the 3 mile From falls in Indian Well State Park down- Saturday in April-last day February. section upstream from Route 4 bridge, stream to railroad bridge: KETTLETOWN BROOK, Southbury (T BK BN) »»Trout: Daily creel limit—2, 9" Minimum as posted. Through Kettletown State Park to Lake length. BASS MANAGEMENT AREA Zoar. • Downstream of the breached dam (STANLEY TRACT AREA) located 300 feet upstream of River INDIAN RIVER, Killingworth-Clinton (T) Road: C Intermittent sections from Stevens Road »»Season: Open year-round. From Dawn Hill Road (Sharon) to Skiff Moun- downstream to Upper Millpond. KITT BROOK, Canterbury (T) »»Trout: Daily creel limit—2, 15" Minimum tain Road in Kent (approximately 6 miles): Intermittent sections from Route 14 to the length. • Area managed for smallmouth, Quinebaug River. statewide regulations apply. INDIANTOWN BROOK, Ledyard-Preston (T) HAWLEYS BROOK, Easton-Weston (BK) Intermittent sections from Route 2 to Poquetanuck Cove. Includes Shewville WILD TROUT MANAGEMENT AREA (Class 1) Within the Trout Brook Valley Property (publicly owned): • Season: Open year-round. • Methods: Barbless single-hook artifi- GOOD FISHING DEPENDS ON CLEAN WATER cial lures and flies only. • Trout: Catch and Release Only. Many of our rivers, lakes, and coastal areas are experiencing algae blooms that cover our favorite fishing spots with green slime and cause fish kills and “dead zones” where no aquatic life can survive. The cause is usually nitrogen and phosphorus pollution that comes from farm and lawn HOCKANUM RIVER, Vernon-Ellington- fertilizers, septic systems, animal waste, and sewage treatment plants. Everyone can do their part Manchester-East Hartford (T) for clean water by reducing fertilizer use, preserving plants along shorelines, and picking up pet Intermittent sections from Rockville to waste. Supporting water quality protection supports great fishing! the Connecticut River. TROUT MANAGEMENT AREA Learn more at: www.epa.gov/nutrientpollution From I-84 in Vernon downstream to crossing under I-84 at Laurel Marsh on the Manchester/East Hartford line: • Season: Open year-round. • Trout: Catch and Release Only. HOW’S MY WATERWAY (accessible at www.epa.gov/mywaterway) helps users quickly find information on the condition of their local waters using a smart phone, tablet, or HOP BROOK, Middlebury-Waterbury (T) desktop computer. This tool provides results within seconds using EPA’s water quality assess- From Route 64 to Hop Brook Flood Con- ment data. Check out the condition of your local waterbody today! trol Impoundment.

www.ct.gov/deep/fishing 47 Rivers & Streams

LAKE WARAMAUG BROOK, Warren (T) • Trout: 9" minimum length. MASHAMOQUET BROOK, Pomfret (T) to August 31. At Town Hill Road, then along Route 45 PGC from Curtiss Road downstream to North Intermittent sections from Taft Pond Shore Road. LONG MEADOW POND BROOK, through Mashamoquet State Park to MIDDLE RIVER, Stafford (T) Middlebury-Naugatuck (T) Quinebaug River. Intermittent sections from Edson Brook Intermittent sections from Long Meadow to Willimantic River. LATHROP BROOK, Plainfield (T) Pond through Guntown Road, along Rubber Avenue to ½ mile above the Intermittent sections from Dow Road MATTABESSET RIVER, Naugatuck River. downstream to Mill Brook. Berlin-Middletown (NP CA LMB T) MILL BROOK, Cornwall (T BK BN) Intermittent sections in Berlin from Brook From the Housatonic River upstream Street to Lower Lane. along Route 128 for approximately 1 mile. LONG SWAMP BROOK, Middlebury (T) LATIMER BROOK, LOWER RIVER/TIDAL WATERS—no closed East Lyme-Waterford (T BK BN) Within Bristol Park, along Route 64 season: through Steinmann Park to Route 188. Intermittent sections along Route 161 Downstream from Route 372 bridge to MILL RIVER, Easton-Fairfield (T BN BK) from Silver Falls to Niantic River. confluence with Connecticut River. • Trout: Daily creel limit—2, 15" minimum Intermittent sections from confluence SEA RUN TROUT STREAM length. with Canoe Brook, as posted by DEEP, to Downstream of I-95 bridge: LOWDEN BROOK, Voluntown (BK) Mohegan Lake, then from base of Samp • Season: Open year-round. In Pachaug State Forest. Mortar Reservoir dam to Sturges Road • Trout: Daily creel limit—2, 15" Minimum in Fairfield. length. MEADOW BROOK, Colchester WILD TROUT MANAGEMENT AREA (Class 1) MACEDONIA BROOK, Kent (T BK BN) • Trout: 9" minimum length downstream From confluence of Canoe Brook, as of Route 16. posted by DEEP, to downstream of third LAUREL BROOK, Middletown (T) PGC bridge (South Park Avenue) below Easton Reservoir as posted: From Anderson Road (Laurel Brook Road) WILD TROUT MANAGEMENT AREA (Class 3) • Season: Open year-round. through Wadsworth Falls State Park. Within Macedonia Brook State Park: MENUNKETESUCK RIVER, Killingworth (T) • Methods: Barbless single-hook artifi- • Trout: 9" minimum length. Intermittent sections from Reservoir Road cial lures and flies only. WILD TROUT MANAGEMENT AREA (Class 1) to Pleasant Valley Road. • Trout: Catch and Release Only. LEADMINE BROOK, Harwinton-Thomaston (T) From confluence with Bog Hollow Brook TROUT MANAGEMENT AREA to Route 341: Intermittent sections from Route 4 in From Merritt Parkway bridge downstream • Season: Open year-round. Harwinton through Roraback Wildlife MERRICK BROOK, Scotland (BK BN) to Mohegan Park Pond. • Methods: Barbless single-hook artifi- Management Area to confluence with • Season: Open year-round. cial lures and flies only. Naugatuck River (Thomaston Flood MERRICK BROOK WILD TROUT • Trout: • Trout: Catch and Release Only. Control Area). MANAGEMENT AREA (Class 1) »»Catch and Release Only from Within Talbot Wildlife Management Area September 1 to 6:00 a.m. 2nd (WMA), and also extending upstream of Saturday in April. the WMA as posted. »»Daily creel limit—2, 9" minimum length LITTLE RIVER, Canterbury-Hampton (T) MAD RIVER, Norfolk-Winchester (T) • Season: Open year-round. from 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday in April From Rugg Brook Road through Mad Intermittent sections from Route 97 to • Methods: Barbless single-hook artifi- to August 31. Paper Mill Pond. River Flood Control Impoundment to cial lures and flies only. Route 263 crossing. • Trout: Catch and Release Only. • Trout: 9" minimum length downstream • Note: Wild Trout Management Area of Grantville Road. includes Beaver Brook within the Talbot MILL RIVER (includes Axle Shop, Clark’s LITTLE RIVER, Putnam (T) WMA. and Woodruff’s Ponds), Hamden (T) Intermittent sections from Roseland Lake downstream to the Quinebaug River. HPC MARSHEPAUG RIVER, Litchfield (T) Intermittent sections from River Road From Shearshop Road downstream MIANUS RIVER, Greenwich-Stamford (T) through Sleeping Giant State Park to through Milton to the East Branch of the Intermittent sections accessible ¼ mile Skiff Street. Boats and canoes prohib- LITTLE RIVER, Oxford-Seymour (T BK BN) Shepaug River. upstream of June Road to Palmer’s Hill ited, including Axle Shop, Clarks, and Intermittent sections along Route 67 from Road (just above Mianus Pond). Woodruffs Ponds. 1 mile above Hogback Road to Hoadley’s SEA RUN TROUT STREAM TROUT MANAGEMENT AREA Pond (Seymour). MARY BROWN BROOK, Putnam (BK) • Entire river upstream of Mianus Within Sleeping Giant State Park: • Season: Open year-round. WILD TROUT MANAGEMENT AREA (Class 3) Intermittent sections from East Putnam Pond Dam (just above Boston Post • Trout: From Towner Lane downstream to Park Road downstream to the Five Mile River. Road): Road: »»Trout: Daily creel limit—2, 9" Minimum »»Catch and Release Only from length. September 1 to 6:00 a.m. 2nd • Downstream of Mianus Pond Dam: Saturday in April. »»Trout: Daily creel limit—2, 15" »»Daily creel limit—2, 9" minimum length Minimum length. from 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday in April Catch and Release improves fishing to August 31. for future generations. EXCEPT IN: TROUT MANAGEMENT AREA From Merrybrook Road upstream MINE BROOK, Portland (BK) approximately 1 mile to dam as indicated by signs: Along Gadpouch Road in Meshomasic • Season: Open year-round. State Forest. • Trout: »»Catch and Release Only from September 1 to 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday MOOSUP RIVER, Plainfield-Sterling (T) in April. Single hook flies and artificial lures only from September 1 to Intermittent sections from the Rhode 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday in April. Island line to the Quinebaug River. »»Daily creel limit—2, 9" minimum length TROUT MANAGEMENT AREA from 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday in April From Route 14 bridge to confluence with

48 2017 Connecticut Angler’s Guide Statewide regulations for seasons, legal methods, and limits (page 21) apply unless a site-specific regulation is listed for a water body. Rivers & streams open season is from 6:00 am on the 2nd Saturday in April to the last day of February unless otherwise stated.

Quinebaug River: • Trout: Daily creel limit—2, 15" minimum BROODSTOCK SALMON AREAS NEGRO HILL BROOK, Burlington (BK BN) • Season: Open year-round. length. (SEE PAGE 28 FOR DETAILS) SESSION WOODS WILD TROUT MANAGEMENT From Route 118 (Litchfield/Harwinton) to • Methods: Fly fishing only in lower half AREA (Class 3) of section, as posted. the Thomaston Dam & from Prospect Street Upstream of Route 69 (through Sessions • Trout: Catch and Release Only. (Naugatuck) downstream to Pines Bridge NATCHAUG RIVER, Woods Wildlife Management Area): Road (Route 42 bridge, Beacon Falls): • Trout: 9" minimum length. Eastford-Chaplin-Mansfield-Windham (T) • Methods (all species): From October P C 1 through March 31, single fly or lure MORGAN BROOK, Barkhamsted (T BN) with a single free-swinging hook only. Intermittent sections along Route 198 to Intermittent sections accessible from Additional weight may not be added to NEPAUG RIVER, New Hartford (T BK BN) Shetucket River. East West Hill Road to the West Branch- the line. Anglers are reminded that the Intermittent sections from Niles Road Farmington River. TROPHY TROUT STREAM season is closed from March 1 to 6:00 to the Route 202 bridge immediately Entire River in Eastford-Chaplin-Mansfield a.m. on the 2nd Saturday in April for WILD TROUT MANAGEMENT AREA (Class 3) upstream from Nepaug Reservoir. -Windham: all species except broodstock Atlantic Entire stream: • Trout: Daily creel limit—2. salmon (see Trout Management Area • Trout: 9" minimum length. below for year-round catch-and- TROUT PARK release fishing for trout). NIANTIC RIVER, East Lyme-Waterford Within Natchaug State Forest (Eastford): • Trout: Daily creel limit—2. NAUGATUCK RIVER TROUT MANAGEMENT AREA LOWER RIVER/TIDAL WATERS—no closed MORRISSEY BROOK Litchfield-Harwinton-Thomaston; From season (NAROMIYOCKNOWHUSUNKATANKSHUNK Route 118 (Litchfield/Harwinton) to the Downstream of confluence with Latimer BROOK), New Milford-Sherman (T BK BN) Thomaston Dam: Brook. Intermittent sections from Route 39 to NAUGATUCK RIVER (East Branch), • Season: Open year-round except in • Trout: Daily creel limit—2, 15" minimum Cedar Hill Road, New Milford. Torrington (T BK BN) areas within 100 feet of signs indi- length. WILD TROUT MANAGEMENT AREA (Class 3) cating such closure posted by DEEP From Newfield Road downstream to at or near the mouths of tributaries that the confluence with the West Branch are closed to all fishing from June 15 to NONEWAUG RIVER, Woodbury (T BK BN) MOUNT HOPE RIVER, Ashford-Mansfield (T) Naugatuck: September 15. Intermittent sections from Route 44 to • Trout: 9" minimum length. • Methods (all species): From October 1 Intermittent sections from Old Town Farm Mansfield Hollow Reservoir. through March 31, single fly or lure with Road to Route 47. a single free-swinging hook only. Addi- tional weight may not be added to the NAUGATUCK RIVER (Mainstem), Torrington- line. NORTHFIELD BROOK, Litchfield- MOUNT MISERY BROOK, Voluntown (T) Litchfield-Harwinton-Thomaston- • Trout: Catch and Release Only. Thomaston (T) Intermittent sections from Hell Hollow Watertown-Waterbury-Naugatuck- LOWER RIVER/TIDAL WATERS—no closed season Road to the Pachaug River. Beacon Falls-Seymour-Derby (T) From Northfield Cutlery Pond to North- From Kinneytown Dam (Seymour) to con- From the confluence of the East and West field Flood Control Dam. fluence with Housatonic River (Derby). Branches in Torrington to the Thomaston • Trout: Daily creel limit—2, 15" minimum Flood Control Dam. Intermittent sections length. MUDDY RIVER, North Haven-Wallingford (T) from Thomaston to Waterbury. Platts Mill NORWALK RIVER (includes Factory Intermittent sections from Northford Road and Route 8 overpass area in Water- and Millers Ponds), Ridgefield- Road below McKenzie Reservoir (Wall- bury, through the Naugatuck State Forest Redding-Wilton-Norwalk (T BN) ingford), along Tyler Mill Road, Route 150, to the Route 42 bridge (Pines Bridge NAUGATUCK RIVER (West Branch), to Spring Street, North Haven. Road) in Beacon Falls. Torrington (T) Intermittent sections from Haviland Road (Ridgefield) to Riverside Avenue TROPHY TROUT STREAM Intermittent sections from Stillwater Pond (Norwalk). From the confluence of the East and West to Route 4. MYRON KINNEY BROOK, Voluntown (T BK) Branches to Route 118 (Harwinton-Litch- WILD TROUT MANAGEMENT AREA (Class 3) field) & from the Thomaston Dam to the Entire stream in Wilton and Ridgefield Within Pachaug State Forest to Glasgo Kinneytown Dam (Seymour): upstream of Wolf Pit Road: Pond. • Trout: Daily creel limit—2 NECK RIVER, Madison (T) • Trout: 9" minimum length. • Thermal refuges: Areas within 100 Intermittent sections from Bradley Cor- feet of signs indicating such closure ners Road downstream to I-95. Groton-Stonington posted by DEEP at or near the mouths MYSTIC RIVER, OIL MILL BROOK, Waterford- of tributaries are closed to all fishing LOWER RIVER/TIDAL WATERS—no closed East Lyme (BK BN) from June 15 to September 15. season SEA RUN TROUT STREAM Downstream of confluence of Haleys Downstream of I-95 bridge: Brook and Whitford Brook.

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www.ct.gov/deep/fishing 49 Rivers & Streams

• Trout: Daily creel limit—2, 15" minimum PINE BROOK, East Hampton-Haddam (T) QUINNIPIAC RIVER, Southington- SAFSTROM BROOK, East Hampton (T) length. Intermittent sections from Route 16 to Cheshire-Meriden-Wallingford (T BN) Intermittent sections along Wopowog Salmon River. From ¼ mile below Cheshire Road, Road in Salmon River State Forest. • Trout: 9" Minimum length downstream Cheshire to Route 150, Wallingford. • Trout: 9" Minimum length downstream of Sexton Road. of Tartia Road. OXOBOXO BROOK, Montville (T) WILD TROUT MANAGEMENT AREA (Class 1) Intermittent sections from Oxoboxo Lake Entire river in Southington, and in downstream to Route 32. Cheshire upstream from Cheshire Street. PODUNK RIVER, South Windsor (T) • Season: Open year-round. SALMON BROOK, Glastonbury (BK BN) • Methods: Barbless single-hook artifi- Intermittent sections from Ellington Road Intermittent sections from headwaters to cial lures and flies only. to Route 5. Keeney Cove. PACHAUG RIVER, Griswold-Voluntown (T) • Trout: Catch and Release Only. WILD TROUT MANAGEMENT AREA (Class 2) Intermittent sections from Beach Pond LOWER RIVER/TIDAL WATERS—no closed Entire brook in Glastonbury downstream to the Quinebaug River. The demarca- season of Addison Pond: tion line between the Pachaug River and POMPERAUG RIVER, Southbury-Woodbury (T) North Haven-New Haven; Downstream • Trout: Daily creel limit—2, 12" minimum Beachdale Pond is the west side of the Intermittent sections from the junction of from Route 5 bridge in North Haven to length. bridge on Route 49. the Nonewaug and Weekeepeemee Riv- junction with New Haven Harbor. ers near Route 47 in Woodbury to ¼ mile • Trout: Daily creel limit—2, 15" Minimum below Route 172 in Southbury. length. PARMALEE BROOK, Durham (T) TROPHY TROUT STREAM SALMON BROOK (East Branch) and SALMON BROOK (Mainstem), Intermittent sections from Route 17 Entire river in Woodbury and Southbury Granby-East Granby (T BK BN) downstream to the Coginchaug River. (from near Route 47 to the confluence RACE BROOK, Woodbridge-Orange (T) with Lake Zoar): From Route 114 (Woodbridge) to Lambert H • Trout: Daily creel limit—2. Road (Orange). From East Street below the gorge in PATTACONK BROOK, Chester (T) North Granby, along Route 189, crossing Routes 202 and 20, and through Gran- Intermittent sections along Route 148. POND BROOK, Newtown (T) brook Town Park to the Farmington River. RAYMOND BROOK, Hebron (T) • Trout: 9" minimum length-entire river Intermittent sections from Routes 6 and Intermittent sections from Route 207 to from Massachusetts border down- 25 to Hanover Road just above Lake Jeremy River. stream to the Farmington River. PEASE BROOK, Lebanon-Franklin (T BN BK) Lillinonah. • Trout: 9" Minimum length downstream WILD TROUT MANAGEMENT AREA (Class 3) WILD TROUT MANAGEMENT AREA (Class 3) of Old Colchester Road. In Pease Brook Wildlife Management From Route 20 (Granby) to confluence Area: with Farmington River (East Granby). PONSET BROOK, Haddam (T) • Trout: 9" minimum length. • Trout: 9" minimum length. Intermittent sections from Route 9 down- RESERVOIR BROOK, Portland (T) stream to Higganum Reservoir. Intermittent sections from Portland Res- PENDLETON HILL BROOK, ervoir to Connecticut River. SALMON BROOK (West Branch), North Stonington (T) Hartland-Granby (T BK BN) POOTATUCK RIVER, Newtown (T BK BN) Intermittent sections along Route 49 From the Granby-Hartland line, along downstream to the Green Falls River. Intermittent sections from Route 25 to RIPPOWAM RIVER, Stamford (T) Route 20 through Simsbury Road. Then Turkey Hill Road, and from Sandy Hook Salmon Brook Municipal Park and Route Intermittent sections from ¼ mile through Rocky Glenn State Park to Wal- 10, below McCleans Game Refuge. upstream of Route 137 to Cold Spring nut Tree Hill Road, just above Lake Zoar. • Trout: 9" minimum length downstream Road near downtown Stamford. PEQUABUCK RIVER, of Route 179 (Hartland) to confluence DEEP BROOK WILD TROUT Plymouth-Bristol-Plainville (T BN) with East Branch. MANAGEMENT AREA (Class 1) Through Rockwell Municipal Park in Bris- Approximately 1 mile (as posted) of tol downstream to Route 177 in Plainville. Pootatuck River, ½ mile upstream and ROARING BROOK, Glastonbury (T BK BN) • Trout: 9" Minimum length downstream ½ mile downstream of confluence with Intermittent sections from Route 94 to SALMON RIVER, Colchester-East of Canal Street in Plymouth. Deep Brook. Connecticut River. Haddam-East Hampton-Haddam (T) • Season: Open year-round. TROUT MANAGEMENT AREA ERIC C. SCHLUNTZ WILD TROUT • Methods: Barbless single-hook artifi- HPC From King Street (Routes 229 and 72) in MANAGEMENT AREA (Class 3) cial lures and flies only. Intermittent sections from the junction of Bristol to Route 177 in Plainville. Includes From Route 94 to Connecticut River: • Trout: Catch and Release Only. the Blackledge and Jeremy Rivers to the the section of Coppermine Brook from the • Trout: 9" minimum length. confluence with the Pequabuck River to Leesville Dam. Artisan Street. • Trout: 9" Minimum length-entire river • Season: Open year-round. downstream to the Route 151 Bridge. POQUETANUCK BROOK, Preston (T) • Trout: Catch and Release Only. ROARING BROOK, Haddam (BK) TROPHY TROUT STREAM Intermittent sections from Hallville Pond Intermittent sections along Ruth Hill Entire river in Colchester, East Haddam to Poquetanuck Cove. Road. and East Hampton: PEQUONNOCK RIVER (includes Tungsten • Trout: Daily creel limit—2. Mine Park Pond), Bridgeport-Trumbull (T) EXCEPT IN: QUANDUCK BROOK, Killingly-Sterling (T BN) Intermittent sections from West Pequon- ROARING BROOK, Lyme (T) TROUT MANAGEMENT AREA Intermittent sections from Rhode Island nock Reservoir (Monroe) along Route 25, Along Route 82. From confluence of Blackledge and to Moosup River. then through Old Mine Municipal Park, Jeremy Rivers downstream to Route 16 Pequonnock Valley Wildlife Area, Twin bridge: Brooks Municipal Park, Unity Munici- • Season: Open year-round. pal Park, and Beardsley State Park in ROARING BROOK, Stafford-Willington (T BN) QUINEBAUG RIVER, • Methods: Fly fishing only in midsection Bridgeport. Thompson to Norwich (T SMB S CB WP) Intermittent sections through Nipmuck of area, as posted. State Forest to the Willimantic River. • Trout: TROPHY TROUT STREAM Intermittent sections from the Massachu- »»Catch and Release Only from In Trumbull, from the Whitney Avenue setts line to the Shetucket River. WILD TROUT MANAGEMENT AREA (Class 3) September 1 to 6:00 a.m. on the 2nd bridge through Trumbull Basin State Park From Route 190 (Stafford) to Willimantic Saturday in April. to the Daniels Farm Road bridge: River (Willington): »»Daily creel limit—2, 9" minimum length • Trout: Daily creel limit—2 • Trout: 9" minimum length. from 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday in April to August 31.

50 2017 Connecticut Angler’s Guide Statewide regulations for seasons, legal methods, and limits (page 21) apply unless a site-specific regulation is listed for a water body. Rivers & streams open season is from 6:00 am on the 2nd Saturday in April to the last day of February unless otherwise stated.

LOWER RIVER/TIDAL WATERS— SETH WILLIAMS BROOK, Ledyard (BK) SHEWVILLE BROOK, Preston (T) • Trout: 9" Minimum length downstream of confluence with the Mad River. no closed season Intermittent sections from headwaters to Intermittent sections from Indiantown Downstream of Route 151 Bridge to junc- Whitfords Brook. Brook to Hallville Pond. tion with Connecticut River. • Trout: Daily creel limit—2, 15" minimum STILL RIVER, Eastford-Woodstock (T) length. • Thermal refuge: Area within 100 feet SHEPAUG RIVER, Roxbury (T) SHUNOCK RIVER, North Stonington (T BK BN) Intermittent sections from Route 171 to the Natchaug River. of signs indicating such closure posted Intermittent sections along Route 67 from Intermittent sections from Hewitts Fly by DEEP at or near the spring along at Hodge Park downstream to the Route Pond to the Pawcatuck River. Sunrise Resort State Park is closed to 67 bridge. all fishing from June 15 to September 15. WILD TROUT MANAGEMENT AREA (Class 3) Entire stream in North Stonington: STILL RIVER, Danbury (T) • Trout: 9" Minimum length. From Eagle Street downstream through SHETUCKET RIVER, the town linear park. SANDY BROOK, Windham to Norwich (T SMB NP S) Barkhamsted-Colebrook-Norfolk (T) SILVERMINE RIVER (includes Blanchard and Intermittent sections beginning ¼ mile G Silvermine Ponds), New Canaan-Norwalk (T) STONY BROOK, Montville (T BK BN) from the Massachusetts line, along Route Intermittent sections from Willimantic to 183, through Algonquin State Forest to Greenville Dam. From Route 106 in New Canaan to the WILD TROUT MANAGEMENT AREA (Class 3) Merritt Parkway. Entire stream in Montville: the confluence with the Still River above TROPHY TROUT STREAM • Trout: 9" Minimum length. Riverton. Entire river in Windham, Scotland, • Trout: 9" minimum length- entire Sprague, and Norwich: stream downstream from Massachu- • Trout: Daily creel limit—2. SKUNGAMAUG RIVER, Coventry-Tolland (T) setts state line. • Thermal refuges: Open year-round Intermittent sections from Route 74 to STONY BROOK, Suffield (T) except in areas within 100 feet of Hop River. Intermittent sections from South Grand signs indicating such closure posted Street to Guild Pond, includes the lower by DEEP at or near the mouths of tribu- SAUGATUCK RIVER (includes Cobbs Mill Pond), 1/2 mile of Muddy Brook. Danbury-Redding-Weston-Westport (T) taries that are closed to all fishing from June 15 to September 15. SNAKE MEADOW BROOK, Intermittent sections from Route 7 in Plainfield-Sterling (T) Danbury through West Redding along BROODSTOCK SALMON AREA STRATTON BROOK, Simsbury (T) Route 53 to the Mark Twain Library Dam (SEE PAGE 28 FOR DETAILS) Intermittent sections from its source to (1 mile above Saugatuck Reservoir). Then From the Scotland Dam (Scotland) down- the Moosup River. P C intermittent sections from 100 feet below stream to the Occum Dam (Norwich): Stratton Brook State Park through Mas- the Saugatuck Reservoir Dam tailrace (as • Methods (all species): From October sacoe State Forest. posted) through Lyons Plain to Dorr’s Mill 1 through March 31, single fly or lure SPRAIN BROOK, Woodbury (T BN) Dam and ending at the Merritt Parkway. with a single free-swinging hook only. TROUT PARK Additional weight may not be added to Intermittent sections from Painter Hill Within Stratton Brook State Park: WILLIAM “DOC" SKERLICK TROUT the line. Anglers are reminded that the Road, Route 47 to Paper Mill Road. • Trout: Daily creel limit—2. MANAGEMENT AREA season is closed from March 1 to 6:00 In Westport from Dorr’s Mill Dam to the a.m. on the 2nd Saturday in April for Merritt Parkway: all species except broodstock Atlantic STILL RIVER, • Methods: Fly fishing only. salmon. SUGAR BROOK, Plainfield (BK) • Season: Open year-round. Winsted-Colebrook-Barkhamsted (T) Within Sugar Brook Wildlife Manage- • Trout: Intermittent sections in Winsted and from ment Area. »»Catch and Release Only from Sandy Brook to Farmington River. September 1 to 6:00 a.m. on the 2nd Saturday in April. »»Daily creel limit—2, 9" minimum length from 6:00 a.m. on 2nd Saturday in April to August 31. SEA RUN TROUT STREAM Available at the online DEEP Store Tidal area downstream of Wood Dam (Westport): A PICTORIAL GUIDE TO FRESHWATER • Season: Open year-round. • Trout: Daily creel limit—2, 15" minimum FISHES OF CONNECTICUT length. This brand new 242-page guide to the fishes of Connecticut is the first to present multiple, high resolution, full-color photos of most New England and all SAUGATUCK RIVER (West Branch), Connecticut freshwater fish species. With detailed information for each species Weston-Westport (T) on identification, distribution, size, abundance, habits, how to observe and catch Intermittent sections from intersection them, how to keep them in aquariums, and what’s unique about them, this easy of Routes 53 and 57 (north of Weston to read book will appeal not only to anglers, nature lovers and teachers, but also Center) to the Saugatuck River. to scientists and the general public alike. • Over 240 full-color photos SAWMILL BROOK, Sherman (T BK BN) • 82 fish species Softcover, From the intersection of Routes 39 and 37 • Detailed fish distribution maps in Sherman Center to Candlewood Lake. 8x10 inches, • Taxonomic key to fish families and species 242 pages • Sections on: observing fish, snorkeling, catching fish, keep- SCANTIC RIVER, ing fish in aquariums East Windsor-Enfield-Somers (T) $19.95 DEEP Store Intermittent sections from Massachusetts Price does not include 6.35% CT sales tax and mail/phone order 860-424-3555 state line to Connecticut River. shipping/handling charges. www.ct.gov/deep

www.ct.gov/deep/fishing 51 Rivers & Streams

Statewide regulations for seasons, legal methods, and limits (page 21) apply unless a site-specific regulation is listed for a water body.

SUMNER BROOK, Middletown (T BK) the Housatonic River: WEST RIVER, Guilford (T) WILLOW BROOK, Cheshire (T BK BN) Intermittent sections from Millbrook Road • Season: Open year-round. Intermittent sections from Quonnipaug Along the bike path beginning at Lock downstream to Route 155. • Trout: Catch and Release Only. Lake to Route 1. 12 at Route 42 downstream to Mount • Large & smallmouth bass: Catch and Sanford Road. Release Only.

SUSQUETONSCUT BROOK, WHETSTONE BROOK, Killingly (T) Bozrah-Lebanon (T) WOOD RIVER, Voluntown (T) THAMES RIVER, Norwich to New London (WP YP) Intermittent sections from East Killingly Intermittent sections from Route 207 to downstream to the Fivemile River. Intermittent sections from Porter Pond the Yantic River. LOWER RIVER/TIDAL WATERS—no closed season to Hazard Pond. Downstream from Greenville Dam, includes coves. • Trout: Daily creel limit—2, 15" minimum WHITFORD BROOK, TANKERHOOSEN RIVER, Vernon (T BK BN) length. Groton-Ledyard-Stonington (T) WYASSUP BROOK, North Stonington (BK) Intermittent sections from Valley Falls Intermittent sections from Long Pond to Intermittent sections from Wyassup Lake Road to Hockanum River. the Mystic River. downstream to Spalding Pond. BELDING -TANKERHOOSEN WILD TROUT WACHOCASTINOOK (RIGA) BROOK, SEA RUN TROUT STREAM MANAGEMENT AREA (Class 1) Salisbury (BK BN) Downstream of Route 184 bridge: The river and its tributaries (as posted) WILD TROUT MANAGEMENT AREA (Class 1) • Season: Open year-round. YANTIC RIVER, Bozrah-Norwich (T) within Belding WMA and the Tanker- • Trout: Daily creel limit—2, 15" minimum Downstream of South Pond within Mt. Intermittent sections from Camp Moween hoosen WMA: length. Riga Corporation property as posted: Road to Thames River. • Season: Open year-round. • Season: Open year-round. • Methods: Barbless single-hook artifi- • Methods: Barbless single-hook artifi- TROUT MANAGEMENT AREA cial lures and flies only. cial lures and flies only. From Barstow Road (Lebanon) down- WHITING RIVER, North Canaan (T) • Trout: Catch and Release Only. • Trout: Catch and Release Only. stream to bridge crossing at intersection Intermittent sections from the Massa- of Fitchville and Schwartz Roads: chusetts state line to confluence with • Methods: Fly fishing only in sections Blackberry River. at the upper and lower boundaries of TAYLOR BROOK, Woodstock (T) WAPPOQUIA BROOK (Quaker Meeting TMA, as posted. Intermittent sections from County Road House Brook), Pomfret (BK) • Season: Open year-round. downstream to Mill Brook. Intermittent sections from Route 97 • Trout: WILLIMANTIC RIVER, downstream to Mashomoquet Brook. »»Catch and Release Only from Stafford to Windham (T) September 1 to 6:00 a.m. on the 2nd C Saturday in April. TENMILE RIVER, Cheshire (T) »»Daily creel limit—2, 9" minimum length WEEKEEPEEMEE RIVER, Woodbury (T BK BN) Intermittent sections from Stafford From Route 70 (Cheshire) to Route 322 Springs to confluence with Natchaug from 6:00 a.m. on the 2nd Saturday in in Milldale. Intermittent sections from Route 132, River. April–August 31. Peter Road to the confluence with the LOWER RIVER/TIDAL WATERS—no closed season Nonewaug River. COLE WILDE TROUT MANAGEMENT AREA In Tolland and Willington from mouth of Downstream from just below the falls at TENMILE RIVER, Lebanon-Columbia (T) Roaring Brook downstream to Route 74 Indian leap in Norwich. • Trout: Daily creel limit—2, 15" minimum Intermittent sections from Route 87 to the bridge: length. Willimantic River. WEPAWAUG RIVER (includes Clarktown Pond), • Season: Open year-round. Orange-Milford (T) • Methods: Fly fishing only. Intermittent sections from Route 34, along • Trout: Catch and Release Only. Grassy Hill Road to ½ mile above I-95. TENMILE RIVER, Sherman-Kent (T SMB) BULL’S BRIDGE TROUT MANAGEMENT AREA / BASS MANAGEMENT AREA From the New York line to confluence with

Use your state income tax refund to help save Connecticut’s wildlife and plants. Their future is on the line — the “Endangered Species/Wildlife” Fund line on your tax return. Just check the box to make a donation and show your support. $AVE Your gift is deductible from next year’s federal income tax. END ANGERED SPECIES AREAS

TURAL NA

ON YOUR WILDLIFE

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STATE OF CONNECTICUT DEPARTMENT OF TAXES! ENERGY & ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION

52 2017 Connecticut Angler’s Guide MARINE FISHING

SALTWATER FISHING RESOURCE MAP

This online map shows the locations of points of interest related to saltwater fishing, including sporting licensing agents, bait and tackle shops, enhanced opportunity shore fishing sites, car top boat launches with Long Island Sound access, trailered boat launches with Long Island Sound access and party/charter boat locations. For information about these points of interest, go to www.ct.gov/deep/saltwaterfishingresourcemap.

ANGLERS PLEASE NOTE New York, Rhode Island, Maine and Massachusetts also have marine license requirements. Though Connecticut has reciprocity with these neighboring states, residents of Connecticut are required to have a CT Resident Marine Waters Sport Fishing License to fish in the Marine District.

www.ct.gov/deep/saltwaterfishing Please support Natural Resource Conservation 53 Marine/Inland Demarcation

DEMARCATION BETWEEN MARINE AND INLAND DISTRICT A marine sport fishing license is required downstream of locations listed below or in areas designated as being entirely in the Marine District. Unless indicated below, the demarcation line is the first bridge upstream from the river mouth or cove. • Alewife Cove: New London-Waterford. • Menunketesuck River: Westbrook. Rte. 1. • Quinnipiac River: New Haven. Rte. 17. Entirely in Marine District. • Mianus River: Greenwich. • Sasco Brook: Westport. • Beebe Cove: Groton. Dam north of Boston Post Road. Buckley’s Mill Dam, above Rte. 1. Entirely in Marine District. • Mill River: Fairfield. Dam at Harbor Road. • Saugatuck River: Westport. Kings • Blackhall River: Old Lyme. Rte. 156. • Mill River: New Haven. Highway. • Branford River: Branford. Tide gates at State Street. • Shaws Cove: New London. Montowese Street. • Mumford Cove: Groton. Entirely in Marine District. • Bride Brook: East Lyme. Entirely in Marine District. • Stonington Harbor, Lambert Cove and First railroad crossing. • Mystic River: Stonington-Groton. Quanaduck Cove: Stonington. • Byram River: Greenwich. 500 ft. north of Rte. 1. 500 ft. north of Rte. 1. First railroad crossing. • Niantic River: East Lyme-Waterford. • Thames River: Groton-New London. • Clinton River: (Indian River) Golden Spur Bridge, Rte. 1. 500 ft. North of Rte. 1, I-95 bridge. Clinton. Rte. 1. • Norwalk River: Norwalk. Wall Street. • Tokeneke Brook: Darien. Old Farm Road. • Connecticut River: I-95 bridge. • Oyster River: Milford. Rte. 122. • Wequetequock River: Stonington. Old Lyme-Old Saybrook. • Palmer’s Cove: Groton. 500 ft. north of Rte. 1. • Duck River: Old Lyme. Entirely in Marine District. • West River: Guilford. Rte. 146. Entirely in Marine District. • Patchogue River: Westbrook. Rte. 1. • West River: West Haven. • East Creek: Guilford. • Pawcatuck River: Stonington. Tide gates at Orange Ave. (Rte. 1). The tide gates at Guilford dock. 500 ft. north of Rte. 1. • Housatonic River: Milford-Stratford. • Pequonnock River: Bridgeport. For a complete listing, consult section 26-108-1 of Merritt Parkway. North Avenue (Rte. 1). the Regulations of Connecticut State Agencies, and • Indian Harbor: Greenwich. • Poquonnock River: Groton. section 26-109 of the Connecticut General Statutes. First railroad crossing. 500 ft. north of Rte. 1. These can be found at www.ct.gov/deep/laws-regs. • Indian River: Milford.Rte. 122. • Pequot-Sepos Cove: Stonington. • Jordan Cove: Waterford. 500 ft. north of Rte. 1. For more information, go to First railroad crossing. • Quiambaug Cove: Stonington. • Lieutenant River: Old Lyme. Rte. 156. 500 ft. north of Rte. 1. www.ct.gov/deep/saltwaterfishing

HOW TO CATCH FISH Contact your local bait and tackle shop for updated fishing information. See page 18 for a list of bait and tackle shops or go to www.ct.gov/deep/baitandtackle.

STRIPED BASS BLACK SEA BASS FLUKE SCUP

Habitat • Large rivers in spring and fall Habitat Habitat Habitat • Estuaries and bays in summer • Estuaries and Sound • Estuaries and bays • Estuaries and bays • Rock piles/reefs • Lower sections of rivers • Rock piles/reefs Fishing Method • Oyster and mussel beds • Hard bottom and channels • Oyster and mussel beds • Drifting with live bait • Pilings and jetties preferred • Pilings and jetties • Jigging and trolling • Bottom fishing with bait Fishing Method Fishing Method Fishing Method • Casting to fish • Anchored over structure, reefs • Drifting with bait • Anchored over structure/reefs • Bottom fishing • Jigging up and down • Bottom fishing Baits & Lures • Fishing with bait • Casting and slowly moving jig • Live or dead bait • Live bait, menhaden, eels, with bait shad and sand worms Baits & Lures Baits & Lures • All types of swimming lures, • Sand worms, conch, shrimp, Baits & Lures • Squid or conch strips, plastic and rubber baits mummichogs, silversides, • Live/dead bait (bunker, mum- sand worms, shrimp, mussels/clams and baited jigs michogs, shiners & silver- and mussels/clams or jigs with plastic/rubber sides), cut squid strips, baited bodies or trailer jigs and plastic baits

Looking for a place to fish, launch a boat, a bait and tackle shop or a party/charter vessel to go fishing on? Check out the Saltwater Fishing Resource Map at www.ct.gov/deep/saltwaterfishingresourcemap

54 [email protected] |860-434-6043 2017 Connecticut Angler’s Guide Shoreline Fishing in Coastal State Parks

During regular hours, a vehicle parking fee is required to enter most • Parking Fees* of the state parks. Parking fees are collected from 8 a.m.–6:30 p.m. on —— Weekdays: resident—$6.00, non-resident—$10.00 weekends and holidays, and 8 a.m.–6:30 p.m. during the week except —— Weekend/Holiday: resident—$9.00, non-resident—$15.00 at state parks marked with an asterisk. Late day fees (4 p.m.–6:30 p.m. —— After 4pm any day: resident—$6.00, non-resident— $7.00 any day) for Harkness, Hammonasset, Rocky Neck and Sherwood Island are $6 for residents and $7 for non-residents. For more information ROCKY NECK STATE PARK, NIANTIC please see the coastal state parks website: www.ct.gov/deep/stateparks. Fishing is allowed on the jetty year round. The entire beach and jetty is open to fishing during the off-season. Jetty located on right side of * Parking Fees subject to change. Camping beach. Please note: When no night rangers are on staff and on major holiday weekends, no vehicles are permitted in park for night fishing. NIGHT FISHING RULES • Fish to be caught: Tautog, winter flounder, bluefish, striped bass, Anglers entering a park by vehicle must obtain a vehicle permit in order scup (porgy), blue crab, striped sea robin and black sea bass can be to park and fish. No vehicle will be admitted into the day-use area of caught off the jetty. Crabbing is allowed at designated areas. the park from 6:30 a.m.–8 a.m. Individuals entering the park without • Directions: I-95, Exit 72 to Route 156. Telephone: 860-739-5471. a vehicle do not require a permit, but must possess fishing tackle (rod • Parking Fees* & reel, bait, light, etc.) and engage in fishing. —— Weekdays: resident—$9.00, non-resident—$15.00 —— Weekend/Holiday: resident—$13.00, non-resident—$22.00 BLUFF POINT STATE PARK & COASTAL RESERVE, GROTON Fishing is allowed 24 hrs. SHERWOOD ISLAND STATE PARK, WESTPORT • Fish to be caught: Winter flounder and snapper bluefish can be caught Fishing is allowed at Sherwood Point, East and West Jetty during the at Poquonnock Cove. Bluefish, striped bass, hickory shad, summer open season (April 15–Sept. 30). The entire beach is open to fishing flounder, little tunny, blue crab, striped sea robin and tautog can be during the off-season from 8 a.m. to sunset only. caught from the beach. • Fish to be caught: Tautog, bluefish, scup, summer flounder, winter • Directions: I-95, Exit 88 to Route 117 south, right onto Route 1, left flounder, blue crab, striped sea robin and striped bass can be caught onto Depot Road. Follow to end. off Sherwood Point. • Parking Fees: None. • Directions: I-95, Exit 18. Telephone: 203-226-6983. • Parking Fees* FORT TRUMBULL STATE PARK, NEW LONDON —— Weekdays: resident—$9.00, non-resident—$15.00 Fishing access (handicapped accessible), 24 hour pedestrian access from —— Weekend/Holiday: resident—$13.00, non-resident—$22.00 Riverfront Walk to Fishing Pier on the Thames River. • Fish to be caught: Bluefish, striped bass, summer flounder, hickory SILVER SANDS STATE PARK shad, scup, tautog, winter flounder, weakfish, blue crab, striped sea AFTER HOURS FISHING PARKING/CHARLES ISLAND, MILFORD robin and black sea bass. Fishing is open throughout the area including the sand spit which extends • Directions: I-95N, Exit 83 (Huntington Street). I-95S, Exit 84. about a mile from the mainland to Charles Island. Caution is advised • Parking Fees: None. Telephone: 860-444-7591. when fishing or walking the Tombolo (sand bar). Swift tidal currents during a flood tide can make passage dangerous and persons unfamiliar FERRY LANDING STATE PARK, OLD LYME with the area may be stranded on Charles Island until low tide. Fishing access (handicapped accessible) consists of a fenced bulkhead area • Fish to be caught: Bluefish, striped bass, summer flounder, hickory and a fishing/crabbing boardwalk. Parking is available inside the park after shad, blue crab, striped sea robin and weakfish. hours for fishing/crabbing only. • Directions: I-95, Exit 35. Follow Schoolhouse Road south to Route 1 • Fish to be caught: Bluefish, striped bass, summer flounder, catfish, (Bridgeport Avenue). Turn left onto Route 1 then right at first light American eel, hickory shad, blue crab, striped sea robin and white perch. (Silver Sands Park Way). Follow Park Way and turn left at next light • Directions: I-95, Exit 70 to Route 156. After ¼ mile make a right onto (Meadowside Road). Follow Meadowside 0.7 mile and turn right at Ferry Road. Follow to end. Telephone: 860-434-6043. Robert Treat Parkway which then becomes Surf Avenue. Follow Surf • Parking Fees: None. Avenue to end at East Broadway and turn right. The After Hours Fishing Parking Lot is at the end of East Broadway. HAMMONASSET BEACH STATE PARK, MADISON • Hiking the Tombola (Sand Bar) while it is covered in water is prohibited. Fishing is allowed only at the Meigs Point Jetty (south end) and at West Beach • Parking Fees: None. Jetty during the peak season from 8 a.m. to sunset. Night fishing is permitted along the entire beach (2 miles). The entire beach (2 miles) is not open to night fishing during the off-season (October–May). • Fish to be caught: Tautog, winter flounder, bluefish, summer flounder, SHORELINE FISHING scup, weakfish, striped bass, blue crab, striped sea robin and black sea bass. • Directions: I-95, Exit 62. Telephone: 203-245-2785. & PROPERTY RIGHTS • Parking Fees* —— Weekdays: resident—$9.00, non-resident—$15.00 CT Coastal Management Program —— Weekend/Holiday: resident—$13.00, non-resident—$22.00 Connecticut’s intertidal shore belongs to the people. Under the common law public trust doctrine, the public may freely use land HARKNESS MEMORIAL STATE PARK, WATERFORD and waters waterward of the mean high water line to fish. The public Fishing is allowed along the beach. No swimming allowed. trust area includes beaches, rocky shores and open waters along • Fish to be caught: Tautog, bluefish, striped bass and scup (porgy) tidal and navigable waters. Fishing in the public trust area is not can be caught off the rocky point, blue crab, striped sea robin and trespassing; the DEEP encourages anglers to enjoy their rights to use summer flounder off the beach. • Directions: I-95, Exit 75. Take Route 1 North to Avery Lane on the public trust lands for fishing. However, anglers should also respect right. Follow Avery Lane to Route 213. Follow Route 213 to the park. the rights of adjacent landowners by not crossing private property Telephone: 860-443-5725. without permission and by leaving the shoreline clean and litter free.

www.ct.gov/deep/fishing Please support Natural Resource Conservation 55 Enhanced Fishing Opportunities

APPENDIX A: Enhanced Opportunity Shore Fishing Scan the code for more information or Program Access Sites visit www.ct.gov/deep/saltwaterfishing Learn more by selecting any site below from the drop-down list on www.lisrc.uconn.edu/coastalaccess. Also see Marine Regula- tions on page 58. ENHANCED OPPORTUNITY LOOK FOR THIS SIGN! SITE CITY SHORE FISHING PROGRAM FAIRFIELD COUNTY This Marine Fisheries program is part of a broader Pleasure Beach Family Fishing Pier Bridgeport Department effort to improve the quality of access and Saint Mary's by the Sea Bridgeport fishing to our Public Trust marine fisheries resources in CT, especially in urban areas. This unique program Seaside Park Bridgeport relies on reduced size limit regulations to allow anglers Ash Creek Open Space Fairfield young and old alike the opportunity to experience Jennings Beach Fairfield the joy and relaxation of outdoor recreation and the Penfield Beach Fairfield satisfaction of catching their own dinner. At the same Penfield Reef Fairfield time, the design of this program assures that marine fish conservation objectives continue to be met. Calf Pasture Beach Norwalk Appendix A. Public Shore Fishing Access Sites Maritime Aquarium Park Norwalk where Summer Flounder/Fluke (17 inch min. length) and Scup (9 inch min. length) may Bond's Dock Stratford be taken at a smaller length limit. Please see page 58 for a complete list of marine recreational Long Beach Stratford fishing regulations including creel limit and open seasons. Point-No-Point Stratford BONUS STRIPER FISHING PROGRAM Russian Beach Stratford From May 1st to December 31st 2017 inclusive, striped bass at least 22 inches but less Short Beach Park Stratford than 28 inches total length may be possessed provided the angler: Sherwood Island State Park Westport 1. Immediately upon retention of such fish, permanently secures a tag (see image below) MIDDLESEX COUNTY through the mouth of the striped bass. Bonus striped bass tags can be obtained at CT DEEP offices or through CT DEEP Marine Fisheries Angler Survey staff and South Cove Causeway Old Saybrook other designated locations. See www.ct.gov/deep/saltwaterfishing for updated information. Saybrook Point Old Saybrook 2. Ensures that the bonus striped bass tag remains on the fish until such fish is taken NEW HAVEN COUNTY home or to another location where the fish is to be consumed. Branford Point Branford 3. Uses the Bonus Striped Bass Reporting Card that was provided with your fish tag to Chaffinch Island Park Guilford record the date of capture, length of the fish and your Conservation ID. 4. Returns the reporting card within 48 hours of harvesting the bonus striped bass. Hammonasset Beach State Park Madison 5. Harvests only ONE bonus striped bass per day regardless of the number of tags the Connecticut Audubon Coastal Center Milford angler possess. Gulf Beach Milford 6. Understands that the tags are valid only in Connecticut State Waters. Silver Sands State Park Milford Criscuolo Park New Haven … 2 Tags per Angler available at DEEP Offices FOR 2017 Fort Nathan Hale Park New Haven Tomlinson Bridge Fishing Pier New Haven Bradley Point Park West Haven Sandy Point West Haven Sandy Point Bird Sanctuary West Haven NEW LONDON COUNTY Cini Memorial Park East Lyme Hole-in-the-Wall Beach East Lyme McCook Park East Lyme Rocky Neck State Park East Lyme Bluff Point State Park and Reserve Groton Eastern Point Beach Groton UCONN-Avery Point Groton City Pier and Waterfront Park New London Fort Trumbull State Park New London DEEP Marine Headquarters—Ferry Landing Park Old Lyme SAMPLE Mystic River Park Stonington Stonington Point Stonington not a valid card Stonington Town Dock Fishing Pier Stonington Harkness Memorial State Park Waterford Mago Point Park Waterford Waterford Beach Park Waterford

56 [email protected] |860-434-6043 2017 Connecticut Angler’s Guide Marine Angler Surveys

CONNECTICUT MARINE ANGLER SURVEY MARINE VOLUNTEER ANGLER SURVEY PROGRAM The Department of Energy and Environmental Protection The Marine Fisheries Program is seeking marine recre- (DEEP), Marine Fisheries Program is conducting a survey ational anglers who will volunteer to participate in the of marine recreational anglers in order to collect fishing Connecticut Volunteer Angler Survey (VAS) Program. trip information and length measurements on kept and The VAS Program is designed to collect fishing trip and released fish. Anglers will be recruited by DEEP Marine catch information from marine recreational (hook and line) anglers who Fisheries staff to volunteer their fishing trip information and take length volunteer to record their angling activities via a logbook. VAS anglers measurements on fish caught for that particular fishing day. Post marked contribute valuable fisheries-specific information concerning striped daily catch cards will be distributed to anglers fishing from both shore, bass, fluke, bluefish, scup, tautog and other important finfish species used including Enhanced Opportunity Shore Angler Program Designated in monitoring and assessing fish populations inhabiting marine waters. Fishing Sites (EOS) and boat launch sites along the Connecticut coastline. Participants will have the choice of either filling out the traditional paper EOS locations are areas that have less restrictive fishing regulations for logbooks and mailing them back or by entering their data electronically summer flounder and scup enabling anglers a better chance of bringing by a computer web based application. In either case, paper logbooks will a fish home for dinner. This fishing information will provide us with still be sent out to each angler. important individual angler trip and species catch data needed to effectively Both the VAS paper logbook and the computer electronic version are easy monitor and assess the marine recreational fishery and ultimately provide to enter. Each participating angler is assigned a personal code number for the most fishing opportunity possible. Participating anglers will be confidentiality. The paper logbook instructions are located on the inside provided a waterproof daily catch card, pencil, and measuring tape for cover and the electronic version will have a specified menu with assisted recording this important fisheries data. Anglers will be encouraged to drop help information. Upon completion of the paper logbook, tape the pre-postage post marked catch cards in the mail, paid logbook and drop it in the mail. All paper logbooks are returned to or at designated drop-off boxes (see each angler for their own personal records upon data entry. Anglers that www.ct.gov/deep/saltwaterfishing) and participate are also provided with updated program results and public hear- CTDEEP Marine Fisheries Survey ing notices concerning recreational fishery management regulations. staff upon trip completion. Supporting Conservation by participating is critical in managing your Marine Fishery Resources Please contact: Jim Preite with his trophy David R. Molnar black sea bass. [email protected] • 860-434-6043 CT Department of Energy & Environmental Protection Marine Fisheries Program P.O. Box 719, Old Lyme, CT 06371

MARINE DEFINTIONS CLOSED SEASON (SALTWATER) The period of time during which no person shall take, possess or land a particular species taken by sportfishing methods, regardless of where taken. Any species taken to the contrary must be returned immediately, without avoidable injury, to the waters from which it was taken. • Anglers cannot be in possession of fish legally taken in another state when on the waters or shores of Connecticut during a closed season for that species in Connecticut. DAILY CREEL LIMIT The number of fish of a species or species group that can be retained by an individual angler during the period from 12:01 a.m. to midnight. Any species taken to the contrary must be returned immediately, without avoidable injury, to the waters from which it was taken. “CULLING” OR “HIGH-GRADING” means discarding or returning a previously retained fish to the water in order to retain a more desirable fish. Any fish placed on a stringer, in a container, cooler, live well or similar device, or otherwise not immediately released to the water shall count against the daily creel limit. “Culling” or “High-Grading” is prohibited in the Marine District! Marine Recreational Fishing Regulations Scan the code for more information or visit SPECIES, MINIMUM SIZES, DAILY LIMITS, & FISHING SEASONS www.ct.gov/deep/saltwaterfishing Effective 2017: Species regulations are subject to change. For legal purposes, the Regulations of Connecticut State Agencies must be consulted. Visit www.ct.gov/deep/laws-regs or contact Marine Fisheries (860-434-6043) for current regulations. Minimum length is measured from the tip of the snout Enhanced Opportunity Shore Fishing Program: This Marine Fisheries Program is part of a broader Department effort to improve the quality of access and fishing to our Public Trust marine fisheries (head) to the end of the tail. resources in CT, especially in urban areas. This unique program relies on reduced size limit regulations to allow angler’s young and old alike the opportunity to experience the joy and relaxation of outdoor recreation and the satisfaction of catching their own dinner. At the same time, the design Spearfishing is an allowed of this program assures that marine fish conservation objectives continue to be met. recreational activity, subject to all sport fishing regulations. Red type signifies new regulations for 2017.

DAILY SPECIES NOTES MINIMUM CREEL LIMIT OPEN SEASON LENGTH (fish per angler) Alewife/ The taking of Alewife and Blueback Herring is prohibited. Blueback Herring Eel Pots limited to 2 pots per person, personal use only. American Eel Legal Methods: Angling, Snagging, Spearing, Eel Pot 9" 25 Year Round Silver eel harvest is prohibited. 6 American Shad All state waters closed except the Connecticut River. None (American and Hickory Year Round Shad in aggregate) Visit www.nero.noaa.gov/sustainable/recfishing/regs for updated federal Atlantic Cod 22" 10 Year Round regulations. Regulations may change this year. Please see www.ct.gov/deep/ saltwaterfishing for updated fishing regulations. Black Sea Bass 15" 5 May 1– December 31 Length excludes the tendril (tail filament). Split bag; seewww.ct.gov/ deep/saltwaterfishing for Party/Charter fishing regulations. 10 Bluefish None Year Round (including snapper bluefish) Visit www.nero.noaa.gov/sustainable/recfishing/regs for updated federal Haddock 18" None Year Round regulations. 6 Hickory Shad None (American and Hickory Year Round Shad in aggregate) 50 fish or 5 gallons (which- Menhaden None Year Round ever is the greater amount) Visit www.nero.noaa.gov/sustainable/recfishing/regs for updated federal Pollock 19" None Year Round regulations. No person shall possess any red drum greater than 27 inches measured from Red Drum the tip of the snout to the end of the tail. Any red drum greater than 27" shall, None None None without avoidable injury, be returned immediately to the water from which taken. See www.ct.gov/deep/saltwaterfishing for Party/Charter fishing regulations. 10" 30 May 1 – December 31 Scup (Porgy) At Enhanced Opportunity Shore Fishing Access Sites (see Appendix A on page 56) 9" 30 May 1 – December 31 Sea-Run Trout 2 15" Year Round (Brown, Brook, Rainbow) (all species in aggregate) Striped Bass No spearing or gaffing 28" 1 Year Round On the water, fillets must meet minimum length or be accompanied by a legal 19" 3 May 17 – September 21 Summer Flounder sized rack (carcass) (Fluke) At Enhanced Opportunity Shore Fishing Access Sites (see Appendix A on page 56) 17" 3 May 17 – September 21 April 1 – April 30 16" 2 Tautog (Blackfish) and July 1 – August 31 16" 4 October 10 – December 6 Weakfish 16" 1 Year Round White Perch 7" 30 Year Round Winter Flounder 12" 2 April 1 – December 31 Highly Migratory Species (HMS) permit is required to take, possess, or land any shark species, other than smooth or spiny dogfish. To obtain an HMS Sharks/Tuna* permit see www.greateratlantic.fisheries.noaa.gov/aps/permits or call NMFS Customer Service at 888-872-8862 * Atlantic Highly Migratory Species Compliance Guide: http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/sfa/hms/Compliance_Guide/index.htm Striped bass may only be taken by angling (spearing is prohibited) and the use of a gaff in the taking of striped bass is prohibited. However, striped bass legally taken by spearing in another state may be landed in Connecticut. No person shall land or possess on the waters of this state or on any parcel of land, structure, or portion of a roadway abutting tidal waters of this state any striped bass from which the head or tail has been removed or which has otherwise been rendered unidentifiable as a striped bass or unable to be measured. Summer flounder filleting. If summer flounder are filleted onboard either: (1) each fillet is required to meet the minimum fish length, or (2) the carcass (rack) of the fish from which the fillet was removed has to be retained and the carcass has to meet the minimum length. This rule shall not be construed to prevent filleting of fish on shore or dockside.

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Atlantic DEER Bonito American Eel Oct 25–Feb 10 8 pt. or larger, 2 does per 3 days TURKEY Mar 15–Apr 30 Little Tunny Striped 2 mature gobblers per 3 days (False Albacore) Sea Robin Home of the Alabama World Champion BOW/GUN Bowhunter Tournament 2-Day, 3-Day & Dec 1 - 10! Multi-Day Hunts Recreational Fishing—Bait Species, Blue Crab & Lobster

TAKING OF BAIT SPECIES GILLNETTING MENHADEN For personal use/not for sale: Recreational Personal Use Gillnet License Required ($100.00) License required in marine district. Legal Menhaden Capture Methods Net and traps which may be used to catch bait Use of a single gillnet, not more than 60 feet in species only (see species list below) length and 3 inch minimum mesh size. • Cast Nets. • Minnow Traps: no larger than 20" long by Prohibited 15" in diameter. The taking of any species other than menhaden. • Umbrella Nets: not more than 4 ft. in length Required by 4 ft. in width. • Annual Report of Catch • Scoop or Scap Nets: no larger than 36" in Thomas Bounanni • See Personal Use Gillnet License Guidelines diameter. with his state for a complete list of requirements. • Seines: no longer than 30 feet in length. record blue crab • Up to two eel pots. Info (8.8 inches). • Hook & Line. • Call 860-434-6043, ask for the Personal Use • By hand. BLUE CRAB Menhaden Gillnet License Guidelines. • Or go to www.ct.gov/deep/fishing and search For personal use/not for sale: No license required. Species that may be taken using the gears listed for Personal Use License. Blue crab fact sheet: www.ct.gov/deep/lib/deep/ above • Or go to www.ct.gov/deep/MarineFishInfoCirc fishing/saltwater/blue_crab_fact_sheet.pdf. • Menhaden (see possession limit on page 58: Also see Gillnetting Menhaden SHELLFISH Legal Blue Crab Capture Methods: • Striped Killifish and Banded Killifish • Scoop Net, Hand Line, Dip Net, Trot Line For personal use/not for sale: Town Shellfishing • Atlantic Silverside • Star Crab Trap (or similar device) • Tidewater Silverside License required. • Circular Topless Trap (not exceeding 26" in • Mummichogs Species Include diameter) • Sea Herring (Atlantic Herring) • Mussels • Clams • Semi-Circular Cylindrical Trap (12" or less • Sand Lances (Sand Eels) • Oysters • Scallops in diameter) • American Eel (see possession limit on page 58) • Sea Lamprey Contact the town where you plan to harvest Open Season • Bay Anchovy shellfish for permit information, or the Depart- May 1–November 30. • Mullet Species ment of Agriculture, Bureau of Aquaculture at Minimum Shell Width: (Spike Tip to Spike Tip) • Sheepshead Minnow 203-874-0696. email: [email protected]. • 5" hard shell crabs • Shrimp Species • 3½" soft shell crabs • Green, Fiddler, Asian Shore and Hermit Crabs LOBSTER Personal Use Lobster License Required ($60.00) Prohibited — New Reduced Fee! • Possession of uncooked blue crab meat with- SHARK SPECIES Legal Lobster Capture Methods: out the body shell attached. • Ten pots or less (pot tags required) • Possession of more than 2 claws per body. YOU MAY • Skin Diving • Possession of egg bearing females. ENCOUNTER IN • SCUBA Diving • Chesapeake-style crabs traps. • Hand Capturing Required COASTAL WATERS All devices must be attended at all times. Required OF CONNECTICUT • Annual Report of Catch JONAH CRAB • See Guidelines for Personal Use Lobster Fish- For personal use/not for sale: No license ing for a list of requirements. required. 50 crabs per day. Info SQUID • Call 860-434-6043, ask for the Guidelines for For personal use/not for sale: No license Sand Tiger Shark Personal Use Lobster Fishing in Connecticut. required if taken using a squid jig. • Lobster Gauges can be purchased ($4) at the Marine Fisheries office in Old Lyme or from DEEP Licensing at: 79 Elm Street, 1st Floor, Resources For Fishermen: Hartford, CT 06106-5127 Sandbar (Brown) Shark www.nmfs.noaa.gov/sfa/management/ 860-424-3105 recreational/resources_for_fishermen.html Protected and prohibited species must be • Or go to www.ct.gov/deep/fishing and search released unharmed. For more information, for Personal Use License. go to www.nmfs.noaa.gov/sfa/hms/ • Or go to www.ct.gov/deep/MarineFishInfoCirc sharks/2008/Rec_shark_ID_placard.pdf For additional information, refer to the Marine IF YOU DON'T KNOW, Fisheries Information Circular by visiting the Reduce Catch and Release mortality www.ct.gov/deep/fishing or call the Marine LET IT GO! — please use circle hooks. Fisheries Division at: 860-434-6043.

60 [email protected] |860-434-6043 2017 Connecticut Angler’s Guide Coastal Boat Launches

For other boat launches, see the 2017 CT Boaters DOCK ROAD, WATERFORD GREAT ISLAND, OLD LYME Guide (www.ct.gov/deep/boating) and the CT • Parking: 45 cars with trailers. • Parking: 35 cars with trailers. Coastal Access Guide (www.lisrc.uconn.edu/ • Toilets: Chemical, seasonal. • Toilets: Chemical, seasonal. coastalaccess/index.asp). Call 860-424-3034 or • Conditions: Ramp is steep and narrow; • Conditions: Shallow at low tide. e-mail [email protected] for questions or Launching may be difficult during strong • Use: Heavy use on weekends. additional information. southwesterly winds. • Access: I-95, Exit 70. Rte.156 east, south to end of • Use: Moderate use on weekends. Smith Neck Road and Great Island Wildlife Area. • Access: I-95, Exit 74. Rte. 213, south on Gos- Scan the code hen Road, launch straight ahead. HOUSATONIC RIVER, MILFORD/DEVON to view the >> Closed due to bridge construction. << CT Boaters Guide: THAMES RIVER (KENNETH E. May re-open in the fall/winter of 2017. STREETER BOAT LAUNCH), GROTON • Parking: 25 cars with trailers. NIANTIC RIVER, WATERFORD • Toilets: Chemical, seasonal. • Parking: 100 cars with trailers. BARN ISLAND, STONINGTON • Conditions: Launching may be difficult dur- • Toilets: Chemical, year round. • Parking: 60 cars with trailers. ing strong northwesterly winds. • Conditions: Large ramp with floating dock. • Toilets: Chemical, seasonal. • Use: Moderate use on weekends. • Use: Heavy use on weekends. • Conditions: Large ramp with floating dock. • Access: I-95 North, Exit 85, bear right onto • Access: I-95, Exit 74. ¼ mile northeast of • Use: Heavy use on weekends. Bridge Street, next right onto Fairview Ave- Rte. 156 bridge across Niantic River. • Access: I-95, Exit 91. South to N. Main Street nue, launch on left. to Rte. 1. Greenhaven Road to Palmer Neck SAUGATUCK RIVER, WESTPORT Road, follow to end. THAMES RIVER, NEW LONDON • Parking: 25 cars with trailers. • Parking: 50 cars with trailers. • Toilets: Chemical, seasonal. BAYBERRY LANE, GROTON • Toilets: Chemical, seasonal. • Conditions: Shallow launching conditions • Parking: 30 cars with trailers. • Conditions: Good launching conditions. at low tide. • Toilets: Chemical, seasonal. • Use: Moderate use on weekends. • Use: Heavy use on weekends. • Conditions: Steep ramp, shallow at low tide. • Access: I-95 North, Exit 84, left onto Williams • Access: I-95, Exit 17 east side of river. Rte. 136 • Use: Heavy use on weekends. Street. Turn east onto State Pier Road, launch to Compo Road, first right to launch. • Access: I-95, Exit 87. Rte. 349 becomes at end, under I-95, Goldstar Bridge. Shennecossett Road, left onto Bayberry Lane. EAST RIVER, GUILFORD/MADISON BRANFORD RIVER, BRANFORD • Parking: 25 cars with trailers. • Parking: 50 cars with trailers. • Toilets: Chemical, seasonal. • Toilets: Chemical, seasonal. • Conditions: Concrete planks. • Conditions: Steep ramp, shallow at low tide. • Use: Moderate use on weekends. • Use: Low use. • Access: I-95, Exit 59. Located on east side of • Access: I-95, Exit 53. Rte. 142 left onto Stannard East River. Take Rte. 1 onto Neck Road and Avenue to Goodsell Point Road. follow to end. CONNECTICUT RIVER, OLD SAYBROOK FOUR MILE RIVER, SOUTH LYME • Parking: 75 cars with trailers. • Parking: 55 cars with trailers. Dylan with • Toilets: Chemical, year round. • Toilets: Chemical, seasonal. prized blue crab, • Conditions: Large ramp with floating dock. • Conditions: Shallow launching area; low caught at Ferry • Use: Heavy use on weekends. railroad bridge clearance. Landing State • Use: Low use. • Access: Exit 1 off Rte. 9 North. End of ramp Park, Old Lyme. turn right. Located under Baldwin Bridge, • Access: I-95, Exit 71. Rte. 156, east on Oakridge (I-95) off Ferry Road. Drive, first right to launch area.

CONNECTICUT STATE WATERS BOUNDARY

Fishing Across State Boundary Lines Anglers are reminded that several states have areas of jurisdiction in Long Island Sound and fishing regulations can vary between these states. When on the waters or shores of each state, anglers must comply with all regulations of that state, regardless of the port they intend to return to. To be legal when crossing state boundary lines, anglers must abide by the most restrictive of the states’ regulations for each species. Latitude/Longitude coordinates depicting the Connecticut boundary line in Long Island Sound and Fishers Island Sound are available in the Marine Fisheries Information Circular which can be found on the DEEP web site: www.ct.gov/deep/fishing. The Information Circular can also be obtained by calling 860-434-6043 or email: [email protected]. Long Island Sound map is for general reference only. For detailed information, please refer to Navigational Charts. www.ct.gov/deep/statewatersboundary Select a link below to view a map for a specific section of the Sound. Section 1: Greenwich to Norton Heights (2.4 MB) www.ct.gov/deep/fishing Please support Natural ResourceSection 2:Conservation Norton Heights to Fairfield (2.4 MB) 61 Section 3: Fairfield to New Haven (2.3 MB) Section 4: New Haven to Falkner Island (2.3 MB) Section 5: Falkner Island to Connecticut River (2.2 MB) Section 6: Connecticut River to Thames River (2.5 MB) Section 7: Thames River to Mystic River (2.0 MB) Section 8: Mystic River to Pawcatuck River (2.4 MB) [Link to the coordinates posted in the Information Circular. ] State Record Marine Fish

Red type signifies a new record set in 2016. WEIGHT CATEGORY COMMON NAME LENGTH LOCATION CAUGHT ANGLER YEAR lbs. oz. CAUGHT Albacore 68 14 46.5" Atlantis Canyon John Dagon 2012 American Eel 4 4 Cedar Island, Clinton Stanley Zalewski 2009 Atlantic Bonito 10 3 29.1" Six Mile Reef Stan Bialecki 2015 Atlantic Cod 45 0 South of Block Island John Chomen 2004 Black Sea Bass 7 8 25" Six Mile Reef, Clinton Mike Lane 2005 Blackfish (Tautog) 26 9.6 34" Two Tree Islands Thien Nguyen 2015 Bluefin Tuna 770 0 Block Island Sound Lester Debetta 1990 Bluefish 24 13 Norwalk Islands Charles J. Toth 1979 Blue Marlin 449 6 Atlantis Canyon Jeffrey K. Eckert 2001 Blue Shark 361 0 Ranger Wreck Robert H. Oslen 1993 Clearnose Skate 7 6 51.75" West Haven Jennifer Zuppe 2016 Conger Eel 7 4 Noank Maria Annunziata 1987 Cunner 3 4 Block Island Sound Wesley E. Sargent 1998 Hickory Shad 3 4 Niantic River, Niantic Richard Kozlowski 2003 Hogchoker 0 9 10.25" West Haven Albert Zuppe 2016 Little Tunny 16 13 37" Butterfish Hole Vincent Deledda 2011 Mako Shark 650 0 Block Island Sound Gregory J. Erisoty 1987 Oyster Toadfish 2 8 Millstone Discharge, Waterford Zach Naoumides 2007 Pollock 34 2 Block Island Sound Joe DeCosta 2000 Sandbar (Brown) Shark 118 7 Connecticut River, Old Saybrook Bruce Kelly 1995 STATE RECORDSTATE MARINE FISH Scup (Porgy) 4 2 19" Block Island Sound Marcelo Moutinho 2012 Sheepshead Porgy 10 11 Branford Reef Clyde Turner 1998 Squid 14.25" mantle Stonington Christopher Sottile 2016 WORLD RECORD Striped Bass 81 15 54" Outer Southwest Reef Greg Myerson 2011 Striped Searobin 4 3 20" Housatonic River Howard Wolowitz 2012 Summer Flounder (Fluke) 14 11 31" Black Point, Niantic Tobey Sweet 2013 Thresher Shark 467 0 Montauk Point Mark Hiller 2006 White Perch 1 15 14" CT River Ferry Landing Rufino Vargas Jr. 2015 Winter Flounder 6 1 Millstone Point, Waterford Tom Kobas 1999 Weakfish 17 14 Fayerweather Island June Andrejko 1986 Winter Skate 17 6 Watch Hill, R.I. William F. Zanks 1995 Yellowfin Tuna 210 7 Block Canyon Charles J. Lobacz 1991 Atlantic Chub Mackerel 2 1 14" Montauk Shoal Brandon Collins 2016 Banded Rudderfish 1 1 12.6" Pleasure Beach, Jordan Cove Valinn Ranelli 2011 Black Drum 15 3 New Haven Breakwater Howard D. LaFrance 2001 Black Grouper 1 4 13.5" Millstone Outflow, Waterford Hugh Durham 2012 Cobia 18 0 East Haven Nicholas Carafeno 2008 Grey Snapper 5 15 25" Milestone Outflow Nelson Carey 2016 Gray Triggerfish 6 1.5 19" Pine Island, Groton Keith Mehmet 2016 Jack Crevalle 3 7.5 18.8" Millstone Outflow, Waterford Hugh Durham 2014 Ladyfish 3 8 23" Millstone Point, Waterford Nelson Carey 2014 Mahi Mahi (Dolphinfish) 47 2 60" Fish Tales Canyon John Dagon 2016 Monkfish 42 0 40" Southside of Fisher's Island Craig Weagle 2016 Northern Kingfish 2 10 19.5" Silver Sands State Park Christopher Shea 2016

(Rare Species) (Rare Porbeagle Shark 191 0 75" Ryans' Horn Austin Urban 2013 Roughtail Stingray 86 15 88" Millstone Outflow, Waterford Kevin McCaffery 2014 EXOTIC MARINE SPECIES Scalloped Hammerhead Shark 235 0 Block Island Sound Richard Bonaccorsi 1992 Smooth Puffer 9 6 25.25" Sara's Ledge Wayne Schneider 2016 Spanish Mackerel 6 5 Branford Beacon Michael Audet 2003 Swordfish 359 0 Fish Tales Fred J. Malcarne 2004 Torpedo Ray 89 8 Misquamicut, R.I. Chuck Adams 2008 Wahoo 88 0 Fish Tales Mike Matrishon 2005 White Marlin 108 8 Block Canyon Frederick Iasiello 1988 BLUE CRAB Blue Crab 8.81" Oyster River Thomas Buonanni 2016

62 [email protected] |860-434-6043 2017 Connecticut Angler’s Guide Angler’s Marketplace

LAND MANAGEMENT OUT-OF-STATE CHARTERS & GUIDES IN-STATE CHARTERS & GUIDES

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860.742.5014 YOUR 1117 Flanders Road Coventry, CT 06238 SOURCE For CT Fishing Information SNED’S Taxidermy Willi roh

Connecticut Department of ialist Energy & Environmental Protection .ct.godeepfi shing 203.671.8198 Wallingford, CT SnedsTaxidermy.com www.ct.gov/deep/fishing Please support Natural Resource Conservation 63 2017 Tide Table—Saybrook Point

HIGH TIDE PREDICTIONS BETWEEN 6:00 a.m. AND 7:00 p.m. Wayne Schneider (Adjusted for daylight savings time) — 41.2833 N, 72.3500 W holding his state record smooth puffer. m FULL MOON l NEW MOON JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUNE JULY AUG SEPT OCT NOV DEC

1 12:24 p 1:39 p 12:32 p 3:08 p 4:01 p 5:46 p 6:09 p 6:43 a 7:56 a 8:08 a 8:59 a 8:16 a

2 1:09 p 2:34 p 1:23 p 4:12 p 5:06 p 6:44 p 6:25 a 7:39 a 8:45 a 8:52 a 9:44 a 9:04 a

3 1:59 p 3:36 p 2:20 p 5:20 p 6:12 p 7:01 a 7:21 a 8:31 a 9:29 a 9:34 a 10:28 a 9:54 a m

4 2:55 p 4:42 p 3:22 p 6:29 p 6:30 a 7:57 a 8:14 a 9:18 a 10:09 a 10:15 a 11:14 a m 10:44 a

5 3:56 p 5:51 p 4:30 p 6:52 a 7:31 a 8:47 a 9:03 a 10:01 a 10:48 a 10:56 a m 11:02 a 11:35 a

6 5:00 p 6:57 p 5:40 p 7:54 a 8:27 a 9:33 a 9:48 a 10:41 a 11:26 a m 11:38 a 11:51 a 12:29 p

7 6:06 p 7:24 a 6:46 p 8:50 a 9:16 a 10:16 a 10:30 a 11:20 a m 12:06 p 12:23 p 12:45 p 1:25 p

8 6:41 a 8:21 a 7:11 a 9:40 a 10:01 a 10:56 a 11:10 a 11:57 a 12:48 p 1:11 p 1:42 p 2:24 p

9 7:38 a 9:13 a 8:08 a 10:25 a 10:42 a 11:34 a m 11:51a m 12:36 p 1:34 p 2:03 p 2:44 p 3:26 p

10 8:33 a 10:02 a 8:59 a 11:06 a 11:21 a m 12:12 p 12:26 p 1:16 p 2:24 p 3:00 p 3:50 p 4:30 p

11 9:25 a 10:48 a m 9:45 a 11:45 a m 11:58 a 12:51 p 1:05 p 2:01 p 3:19 p 4:02 p 4:57 p 5:34 p

12 10:16 a m 11:32 a 11:28 a m 12:22 p 12:36 p 1:31 p 1:46 p 2:49 p 4:20 p 5:09 p 6:01 p 6:33 p

13 11:05 a 12:15 p 12:09 p 1:00 p 1:14 p 2:14 p 2:30 p 3:43 p 5:26 p 6:17 p 6:40 a 7:05 a

14 11:53 a 12:57 p 12:48 p 1:39 p 1:56 p 3:00 p 3:18 p 4:41 p 6:32 p 6:59 a 7:31 a 7:52 a

15 12:40 p 1:41 p 1:27 p 2:21 p 2:40 p 3:49 p 4:11 p 5:44 p 7:11 a 7:59 a 8:18 a 8:35 a

16 1:28 p 2:28 p 2:08 p 3:08 p 3:30 p 4:42 p 5:07 p 6:47 p 8:13 a 8:52 a 9:00 a 9:15 a

17 2:17 p 3:19 p 2:52 p 4:01 p 4:22 p 5:38 p 6:06 p 7:20 a 9:09 a 9:40 a 9:39 a 9:52 a

18 3:09 p 4:16 p 3:40 p 4:57 p 5:18 p 6:34 p 6:29 a 8:23 a 9:59 a 10:24 a 10:16 a l 10:27 a l

19 4:04 p 5:16 p 4:35 p 5:55 p 6:13 p 6:53 a 7:33 a 9:21 a 10:46 a 11:04 a l 10:52 a 11:03 a

20 5:02 p 6:16 p 5:35 p 6:51 p 6:27 a 7:54 a 8:35 a 10:16 a 11:30a l 11:43 a 11:27 a 11:39 a

21 6:00 p 6:38 a 6:35 p 7:07 a 7:25 a 8:52 a 9:34 a 11:06 a l 12:11 p 12:20 p 12:05 p 12:17 p

22 6:30 a 7:28 a 6:54 a 8:01 a 8:21 a 9:49 a 10:30 a 11:54 a 12:52 p 12:58 p 12:44 p 12:57 p

23 7:18 a 8:13 a 7:48 a 8:52 a 9:15 a 10:44 a 11:23 a l 12:40 p 1:33 p 1:37 p 1:28 p 1:41 p

24 8:03 a 8:56 a 8:38 a 9:42 a 10:08 a 11:39 a l 12:15 p 1:25 p 2:15 p 2:19 p 2:16 p 2:30 p

25 8:44 a 9:38 a 9:25 a 10:31 a 11:01 a l 12:33 p 1:06 p 2:11 p 3:00 p 3:05 p 3:09 p 3:25 p

26 9:24 a 10:19 a l 10:10 a 11:20 a l 11:54 a 1:28 p 1:56 p 2:58 p 3:50 p 3:57 p 4:06 p 4:24 p

27 10:03 a 11:02 a 10:55 a 12:10 p 12:49 p 2:23 p 2:47 p 3:47 p 4:45 p 4:54 p 5:04 p 5:24 p

28 10:42 a l 11:46 a 11:40 a l 1:03 p 1:45 p 3:19 p 3:39 p 4:39 p 5:42 p 5:52 p 6:02 p 6:26 p

29 11:22 a — 12:28 p 1:58 p 2:43 p 4:16 p 4:32 p 5:34 p 6:23 a 6:37 a 6:37 a 6:58 a

30 12:04 p — 1:17 p 2:58 p 3:44 p 5:13 p 5:26 p 6:03 a 7:19 a 7:28 a 7:27 a 7:52 a

31 12:50 p — 2:10 p — 4:46 p — 6:20 p 7:02 a — 8:15 a — 8:44 a

TIDAL DIFFERENCES — Remember that weather conditions affect tidal range & current speeds, sometimes very strongly. Stonington Less 1 Hour, 43 Min. Duck Island Plus 7 Min. Bridgeport Plus 33 Min. Noank Less 1 Hour, 33 Min. Madison Plus 12 Min. Greenwich Plus 34 Min. Norwich Less 1 Hour, 25 Min. Falkner Island Plus 19 Min. Stamford Plus 38 Min. New London Less 1 Hour, 11 Min. Branford Harbor Plus 24 Min. Cos Cob Harbor Plus 38 Min. Millstone Pt. Less 1 Hour, 2 Min. New Haven Harbor Plus 25 Min. South Norwalk Plus 45 Min. Niantic Less 10 Min. Milford Harbor Plus 26 Min. Housatonic River, Stratford Plus 1 Hour. Old Saybrook See tide chart Saugatuck River Plus 31 Min.

CONNECTICUT RIVER Essex Plus 28 Min. Portland Plus 2 Hours,40 Min. East Haddam Plus 1 Hour, 31 Min. Hartford Plus 4 Hours, 19 Min.

64 [email protected] |860-434-6043 2017 Connecticut Angler’s Guide