Are you dreaming of a perfect fishing spot for catching large bass? New Hampshire is home to some of the most incredible bass fishing locations in the United States—so put down your pole and tackle box, and get ready to explore! In this blog post, we’ll share our top picks for the best places in NH to cast your line. Whether you’re a seasoned angler looking for new spots or just starting out with fly fishing, great locations here will help ensure your next outing is a success. So grab your gear, break out those waders, and let’s start planning an awesome day on the water!
Best Bass Fishing Locations in New Hampshire
New Hampshire, with its numerous lakes and rivers, offers an array of excellent bass fishing locations. From the largest lake to the tiniest pond, you’ll find diverse habitats teeming with various species of bass. Here we explore some of the best spots for bass fishing in the state.
Lake Winnipesaukee
Lake Winnipesaukee is the largest lake in New Hampshire, spanning 72 square miles. Nestled in the heart of the Lakes Region, it’s a popular destination for anglers. The lake’s clear waters, dotted with 258 islands, offer ample opportunities for catching both largemouth and smallmouth bass.
Historical Information: The name Winnipesaukee means “Beautiful Water in High Place” in the native language of the region’s first inhabitants, the Abenaki tribe. The lake has been a popular fishing destination for centuries.
Fisherman’s Tip: Try fishing around the docks and weed lines, where bass often hide.
Common Fish Species: - Largemouth Bass - Smallmouth Bass - Rainbow Trout - Lake Trout - Salmon
Bow Lake
Bow Lake is a scenic 1,200-acre body of water located in Strafford County. The lake is particularly known for its robust population of largemouth and smallmouth bass.
Historical Information: Bow Lake is named after the town of Bow, which was named in honor of a respected English politician and lawyer, Thomas Bowes.
Fisherman’s Tip: Early mornings and late evenings are often the best times to fish here, as bass tend to feed during these times.
Common Fish Species: - Largemouth Bass - Smallmouth Bass - Chain Pickerel - Yellow Perch - Bluegill
Comerford Lake
Comerford Lake, covering 1,100 acres, is a prized location for bass fishing. Located near Littleton, the lake is known for its stunning scenery and diverse fish population.
Historical Information: Comerford Lake was created in the early 1930s as part of a hydroelectric project that also involved dam construction.
Fisherman’s Tip: The lake’s rocky points and submerged structures are excellent spots to catch smallmouth bass.
Common Fish Species: - Largemouth Bass - Smallmouth Bass - Northern Pike - Walleye - Yellow Perch
Piscataquog River
The Piscataquog River, winding through Manchester, is a 34-mile long waterway with plenty of spots for bass fishing. This river is home to various fish species, with bass being a favorite among anglers.
Historical Information: The name Piscataquog means “place of many deer” in the local Native American language.
Fisherman’s Tip: Look for areas where the current is slower, as bass often use these spots to conserve energy while hunting for food.
Common Fish Species: - Largemouth Bass - Smallmouth Bass - Brook Trout - Brown Trout - Rainbow Trout
Crystal Lake
Crystal Lake, located in Gilmanton, is a smaller body of water but offers superb conditions for bass fishing. The lake’s clear waters and tranquil surroundings make it a favorite among local anglers.
Historical Information: Crystal Lake got its name from the remarkably clear waters that reflect the surrounding landscape like a crystal mirror.
Fisherman’s Tip: Weed beds are hot spots for largemouth bass in this lake.
Common Fish Species: - Largemouth Bass - Smallmouth Bass - Chain Pickerel - White Perch - Sunfish
Squam Lake
Squam Lake, covering over 6,700 acres, is the second largest lake in New Hampshire. It’s famous for its clear waters and the lush forests surrounding it. The lake is a haven for largemouth and smallmouth bass.
Historical Information: Squam Lake gained some fame when it served as the filming location for the classic movie “On Golden Pond.”
Fisherman’s Tip: Bass are often found around the lake’s rocky areas and submerged structures.
Common Fish Species: - Largemouth Bass - Smallmouth Bass - Rainbow Trout - Yellow Perch - White Perch
Sunapee Lake
Sunapee Lake is renowned for its crystal-clear water and stunning mountain views. This 4,125-acre lake offers excellent opportunities for catching both smallmouth and largemouth bass.
Historical Information: The lake’s name, Sunapee, comes from the Algonquin Indian words “suna” meaning “goose”, and “apee”, meaning “lake”. The area was once abundant with wild geese.
Fisherman’s Tip: Try fishing near the shores early in the morning or late in the evening when bass are most active.
Common Fish Species: - Largemouth Bass - Smallmouth Bass - Lake Trout - Brown Trout - Salmon
Great East Lake
Straddling the border between Maine and New Hampshire, Great East Lake is a deep, glacial lake known for its clean water and healthy fish population. The lake covers about 1,768 acres and is a popular spot for bass fishing.
Historical Information: The lake’s water level was raised by a dam on the Newichawannock Canal in the 19th century for power generation purposes.
Fisherman’s Tip: The lake’s depth varies significantly, so using a fish finder can be helpful here.
Common Fish Species: - Largemouth Bass - Smallmouth Bass - Chain Pickerel - White Perch - Lake Trout
Merrimack River
The Merrimack River, stretching over 117 miles through New Hampshire and Massachusetts, offers numerous fishing spots. The river boasts a healthy population of smallmouth and largemouth bass.
Historical Information: The river played a significant role during the Industrial Revolution, providing power for numerous mills along its course.
Fisherman’s Tip: Look for slower-moving water where bass like to hang out, such as behind rocks or under fallen trees.
Common Fish Species: - Largemouth Bass - Smallmouth Bass - Northern Pike - Walleye - Rainbow Trout
Umbagog Lake
Umbagog Lake, located on the New Hampshire-Maine border, is known for its pristine waters and abundant wildlife. The lake covers 7,850 acres and is a favorite spot for anglers targeting bass.
Historical Information: The name Umbagog is derived from the Abenaki word for “shallow water”.
Fisherman’s Tip: The lake’s many coves and inlets are great places to find bass.
Common Fish Species: - Largemouth Bass - Smallmouth Bass - Northern Pike - Yellow Perch - Lake Trout
Remember always to follow local fishing regulations and practice catch-and-release
Whether you are a casual angler looking to catch dinner or a competitive bass fisherman, New Hampshire offers something – from lakes and ponds to rivers, streams and more. With its varied topography and diverse habitats, this beautiful state allows for some of the best bass fishing in the US. Make sure to check official regulations for fishing requirements and apply for necessary licenses and permits.
And don’t forget to enjoy the captivating views around you as you search out those trophy fish! So what are you waiting for? Put your skills to the test, make your way to one of these fabulous spots and have a great time connecting with nature out on the water. Who knows? You might end up hooking into a lunker today!