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Why limit yourself to public land when there are millions of acres of private land to explore.
Freshwater Fishing in Connecticut
Connecticut Fishing at a Glance
Have you ever dreamed of escaping to a paradise of pristine waters teeming with life? Connecticut is the place for you – boasting 5,800 miles of rivers and streams, as well as 180 public bodies of water, all filled with an abundance of game fish.
If fishing’s your fancy, get ready: Here’s what you need to know about freshwater fishing in Connecticut. Before you drop the line, make sure that you’ve got the right license. These can be purchased at any town hall or online. Costs vary based on how long it’s valid for and if you’re a state resident or not.
Key Insights
- Connecticut offers ample freshwater fishing opportunities with 5,800 miles of rivers and streams and 180 public bodies of water.
- Before you fish in Connecticut, make sure to obtain the appropriate fishing license which can be purchased at a town hall or online.
Table of Contents
Estimated Fishing Enthusiasts
| Population: | 3,605,944 |
|---|---|
| Fishing Enthusiasts | 144,910 |
| Fishing License % | 4.02% |
| Hunters Rank | 47 |
The state of Connecticut is mostly private land with just 5.8% of acres considered public land -ranking #34 amongst all states.
Land Types (Acres)
| Acres | % | Rank | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total | 3,100,800 | ||
| Public | 179,690 | 5.79% | 34 |
| Private | 2,919,510 | 94.15% | 15 |
| Tribal | 1,600 | 0.05% | 24 |
Connecticut Fishing Licenses & Requirements
For the most accurate and updated information on fishing licenses and requirements, it’s always a good idea to check the Connecticut DNR. We’ve provided their contact information and other helpful information for your convenience here.
Connecticut DNR
79 Elm Street
Hartford, CT 06106-5127
- (860) 424-3000
What are the most popular freshwater fish to catch in Connecticut?
Connecticut is filled with endless possibilities for freshwater fishing. You can explore the depths of the Farmington River, take a tranquil boat ride around Lake Wononskopomuc, or catch your lunch from Squantz Pond. No matter your skill level, you’re sure to make some unforgettable memories on your fishing adventure in Connecticut. So grab your rod and reel and go make some amazing catches!
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Fishing private land in Connecticut
Fishing on private land in Connecticut has some real advantages over public lakes, rivers, streams, and ponds *if you can get access. For instance, there’s nothing like having a quiet lake all to yourself and oftentimes there are simply more fish available to catch, because they haven’t been fished out. There are generally more processes for access private land for hunting than fishing, though some similar methods exist. For instance, you can sometimes join a fishing club in Connecticut or if you have the money, it may be possible to rent some private land for fishing. Another option is to knock on doors or work your contacts in an area to see if a landowner would let you fish for the day or possibly be open to a longer term arrangement.
Fortunately Wing It is simplifying land access for fishing, hunting, camping, and more. We’re adding new land every day and if we have some in your area, you’ll see some great options below.
1. Farmington River
2. Connecticut River
3. Naugatuck River
4. Shetucket River
5. Salmon River
Fishing private land in Connecticut
Fishing on private land in Connecticut has some real advantages over public lakes, rivers, streams, and ponds *if you can get access. For instance, there’s nothing like having a quiet lake all to yourself and oftentimes there are simply more fish available to catch, because they haven’t been fished out. There are generally more processes for access private land for hunting than fishing, though some similar methods exist. For instance, you can sometimes join a fishing club in Connecticut or if you have the money, it may be possible to rent some private land for fishing. Another option is to knock on doors or work your contacts in an area to see if a landowner would let you fish for the day or possibly be open to a longer term arrangement.
Fortunately Wing It is simplifying land access for fishing, hunting, camping, and more. We’re adding new land every day and if we have some in your area, you’ll see some great options below.