Candlewood Lake Fishing - Everything You Need to Know

Candlewood Lake Fishing Everything You Need to Know
August 7, 2021

Candlewood Lake is a man-made lake located in the town of Danbury, Connecticut.

Candlewood Lake, Connecticut is very popular amongst local anglers and tourists. The lake is also well-known for its large number of fishing opportunities.

There are many famous fishing events held at this lake over the years, like the American Bass Anglers and CT Bassmasters. These events attract visitors from all around the world to watch some of the most spectacular Bass fishing events and tournaments.

The most common fish you will find in the lake are Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth bass, Rainbow trout, Brown trout, Brook trout, and some other species.

It makes an ideal destination for different anglers who come here to catch different kinds of fish throughout the year.

Candlewood Lake Fishing

Candlewood Lake fishing boat

Candlewood Lake is a great place to fish. It was formed on February 25, 1928. Now, thousands of visitors come here for fishing each year.

As I mentioned above, Candlewood Lake fishing is famous for its largemouth bass. Still, you can also catch some other species here, like smallmouth bass, various trout species, and crappie.

Candlewood Lake is stocked with both trout and other fish each year.

Best Fishing Seasons

You can fish at Candlewood Lake throughout the year.  

Ice fishing is very popular during the winter when the lake freezes. Some places provide ice fishing tours and equipment to help you fish in the cold weather.

Also, ice skating facilities let visitors enjoy themselves even during the harsh winters. Great if bring the family.

In spring, summer, and fall, you can also fish in the open waters by hiring a boat or fishing from the shore.

Spring and fall are the most popular months to fish. Just as spawning approaches in the spring, fish bite hard and are easily caught.

There are also many enjoyable nonfishing-related activities to enjoy at Candlewood Lake during the summer.

You can go swimming, boating, camping, hunting, or hang out with your loved ones while enjoying some of the fantastic views from over there. It's also an excellent destination for picnic parties and family get-togethers.

Types of Fish in Candlewood Lake

Catching largemouth bass at candlewood lake Connecticut

Here are some of the most popular types of fish you can catch at Candlewood Lake:

Largemouth Bass  

A Largemouth bass has a unique look as compared to other fish species. They look fierce enough to give you a hard time while catching them, so you must know everything about these fish to catch them in the easiest way possible. You can quickly identify a largemouth bass with its dark green color and white-colored belly.

These are some of the largest fish species available in Candlewood Lake and most defiantly the most popular to catch.

Smallmouth Bass  

I love fishing for smallmouth bass here. Like its peer, the largemouth bass, they too put up a good fight and can grow quite big. 

You can easily identify these fish by their greenish-brown or bronze-colored body. 

Rainbow Trout  

These are one of the most common kinds of fish you will find while fishing at this lake. You can quickly identify rainbow trout by the red streak along their body.

Fly fishing for rainbow trout is very popular amongst anglers who come to fish in Candlewood lake.

Brown Trout  

You can identify these trout with their dark-colored spots all over and their brown body. These fish are also very popular with fly fishermen.

Brook Trout  

The color of the Brook Trout is usually dark brown or black. They are also easy to recognize as they have a white-colored belly and yellowy-colored spots on their bodies. This species of trout can be easily found in streams and lakes.

The lake also offers anglers the opportunity to catch crappie, rock bass, yellow perch, brown bullhead, calico bass, common carp, chain pickerel, white perch, white catfish, and yellow bullhead.

Fishing Equipment and Baits

I have been fishing this lake a couple of times and have successfully caught some huge bass.

Here are a few tips you can keep in mind to increase your fishing chances while at Candlewood Lake:

Fishing with the right equipment

You will have a much more enjoyable experience if you use the correct tackle and bait for each fish species.  

I usually fish for bass when I go to Candlewood Lake. However, I recommend you use a good spinning rod with a matching reel for more finesse fishing or a baitcasting setup if you want to go more heavy-duty.

If you are targeting trout, you will want to go with a good fly fishing setup.

Baits and lures

As I mentioned earlier, fishes at Candlewood Lake have different tastes and preferences.

So you'll want to choose the right kind of lure or bait for each species of fish that you plan on catching.  

Bass love crankbaits, soft plastics, and live bait. 

Trout love artificial flies or small spinners and spoons.

If you want to catch crappie fish, then use some live worms will do the trick.

My go-to rig of choice is a weedless Texas rig. It is a great allrounder and perfect for fishing from the shore.

Pack well

Using a backpack will make your fishing trip a lot easier.

There is enough space in the backpack to store all your supplies, and it will be easy to carry around with you anywhere you go.

This way, you can quickly move from one spot to another without worrying about carrying heavy stuff.

Another thing always gets good-quality rods because they usually last longer.

Fishing Tips

You don't have to be an expert in fishing to catch fish here.

The lake is enormous, and it has many different species of fish, so there are many places where you can try your luck.

Boat fishing is an option, or you can fish from the shore.

I love fishing from the shore as it's inexpensive, and you can fish in different areas than you could have with a boat.

Find areas with a great cover. Bass love to stay undercover and hunt for the baitfish.

Location and accessibility

Candlewood lake map

Candlewood Lake is located about a 2-hour drive from New York City, 90 minutes away from Hartford, CT, and a three-and-a-half-hour drive from Boston, MA.

It's easily accessible by railway as the lake lies near the Danbury railway station. A train from New York Grand Central Terminal to Danbury railway station takes about 2 hours.

There are hotels available nearby, and also some of them provide facilities like boat rental to let visitors enjoy themselves without any hassle.

FAQs

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions that are asked by visitors:

Is Candlewood Lake dangerous?

Candlewood Lake is not generally considered to be dangerous. However, there have been reports of drownings and accidents that have taken place at the lake over the years.

Like with any lake, it's good to be extra careful when out on and around the lake.

Go with friends and family and always tell someone if you intended to visit the lake.

Can I fish from shore?

Yes, Shore fishing is very popular on Candlewood Lake.  There are many places around the lake were walking right down to the waterside and fish from the bank is possible.

Where is Candlewood Lake located?

Candlewood Lake is located in Southern Connecticut.

Is Candlewood Lake good for fishing?

Yes, Candlewood Lake is a great place to fish.  People of all ages enjoy fishing at the lake, mostly during warm spring, summer, and fall months.

It's also very popular for ice fishing in the winter when Candlewood lake freezes.

How big is Candlewood Lake?

Candlewood Lake covers around 21.93 square kilometers and is considered one of the largest lakes in Connecticut. How deep is it? The deepest part of this lake lies 27 meters.  

Can I fish with a kayak at Candlewood Lake?

Yes, canoeing and kayaking are popular activities at Candlewood Lake.

What kinds of fish do they have?

Candlewood Lake is home to many kinds of fish species. One of the most common ones are largemouth bass.  Other common fishes include brown trout, brook trout, rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, yellow perch, rock bass.

Are boats available for fishing?

Yes, you can rent a boat or canoe from one of the local stores and boating on this lake. However, you should wear a life jacket or wetsuit while boating.

Conclusion

Candlewood Lake is a beautiful lake with its hills and nature all around.

Fishing Candlewood Lake is a great way to enjoy nature and have a good time with friends and family.  

The great fishing and nonfishing-related activities make this a fantastic destination for families, friends, kids, or simply camping alone.  

Whether you are interested in fishing or not, it's worth visiting to see the beautiful nature and enjoy some time outdoors. The lake is also perfect for boating, kayaking, swimming, camping, and picnic parties.

Often referred to as the "Quiet Lakes" of Southern Connecticut, Candlewood Lake offers a peaceful escape from busy city life for anyone looking to get away from the hustle and bustle.

A visit to the lake is a must if you are in the area for your vacation, weekend getaway, or want to enjoy some peace and tranquility.

Being rated as one of the best fishing lakes in the US, Candlewood Lake has so much to offer! So what are you waiting for? Please go check it out today!

Happy fishing!

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