Fishing At Gardner Lake

AKA: Gardner Reservoir

What to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, white catfish, black crappie, walleye, rainbow trout, brook trout, brown trout, bluegill, green sunfish, pumpkinseed sunfish and yellow perch at Gardner Lake in Connecticut.

Naturally beautiful scenery surrounds Gardner Lake, a 430-acre lake located in the southeast corner of the state 2 miles northeast of Salem. Adventurous anglers can find plenty of places to fish from the bank, along the 5 miles of shoreline, in remote areas, at parks and boat launch areas.

Lake Video
Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boat Launch Ramps
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Contact Info

The purpose of this page is to deliver an overview of this lake, the fishing options, and area amenities. Our goal is to provide info to first time visitors, as well as beginner and novice anglers. We gathered details from personal experience, numerous trusted websites that each offer select bits of information, and videos of fishing activity on the lake. These websites include the Department of Energy & Environmental Protection, marinas at the lake, campgrounds, boat rental agencies and others. By consolidating this information to one page it allows visitors to see the entire picture, all in one place.

Lake Video

Gardner Lake, nestled in the town of Salem, Connecticut, is a hidden gem for fishing enthusiasts seeking a serene and rewarding fishing experience. This 528-acre lake offers a variety of fishing opportunities and is a favorite among anglers in the region.

One of the popular fish species found in Gardner Lake is largemouth bass. Anglers flock to this lake to target these feisty game fish. The lake's diverse structure, including submerged logs, weed beds, and rocky areas, provides ideal habitat for bass. Anglers often use plastic worms, jigs, or topwater lures to entice the largemouth bass lurking in the lake's waters.

In addition to largemouth bass, Gardner Lake is also home to other popular fish species, including northern pike, pickerel, and various panfish species such as yellow perch and black crappie. Pike and pickerel fishing can be particularly exciting as these predatory fish offer thrilling strikes and strong fights. Anglers often use large spoons, spinnerbaits, or live bait to target these aggressive predators.

When planning a fishing trip to Gardner Lake, it is important to familiarize yourself with the fishing regulations specific to the lake, including size and creel limits for different fish species. Respecting the fishing regulations helps maintain the health and sustainability of the fish population and ensures a balanced fishery for future generations.

Gardner Lake in Connecticut provides a serene and rewarding fishing experience with its diverse fish species, boating opportunities, and nearby camping options. Whether you're targeting bass, pike, pickerel, or panfish, Gardner Lake offers a tranquil setting for anglers to enjoy a memorable fishing adventure.

Several boat launch ramps are available for use by the public. Bass, crappie, trout and yellow perch are some of the favorite species here. Catfish and sunfish are also plentiful. Camping is popular at campgrounds in the area.

Primary fish species residing in Gardner Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Gardner Lake Amenities

Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: NEARBY
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: NEARBY

Today's Weather & Forecast

Boating is a popular activity on Gardner Lake, allowing anglers to explore the lake's different areas and find their preferred fishing spots. The lake allows motorized boats, making it convenient for anglers to navigate the waters and access various fishing grounds. Additionally, canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards are commonly seen on the lake, providing a quieter and more intimate fishing experience.

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Gardner Lake Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, on the south side of the lake, off Old Colechester Road, this is a four-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Click here for a Connecticut Fishing License.

Camping facilities are available near Gardner Lake, including nearby state parks and private campgrounds. These accommodations allow anglers to extend their fishing trips and fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. Camping offers a unique opportunity to enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the lake and maximize fishing opportunities during early morning or late evening.