Fishing Highland Lake
AKA: Highland Reservoir
Popular Fish Species Highland Lake, CT
Smallmouth Bass Fishing
Highland Lake continues to sustain a robust smallmouth bass population. Many locals enjoy smallmouth fishing, as smallies are tough fighters and very exciting to catch. Smallmouth bass fishing is good virtually anytime they are shallow. Use shallow spinnerbaits, buzzbaits, crankbaits, tube baits and jerkbaits around rip rap. Around grass, use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In winter, spend your time on deeper structure with drop-shot rigs, small worms, jigs and spoons. Largemouth bass also reside here in good numbers. Rock piles and points are prime areas for smallmouth as these areas are also home to crawfish. When the lake freezes over, consider ice fishing for smallies.
Walleye Fishing
Thanks to a significant baitfish population, and presence of numerous small sunfish in the lake, walleye are thriving in the fertile waters of Highland Lake this year. May and June tend to be the best time for weekend anglers to catch them. During this time they tend to move shallower, closer to shore and begin spawning. Rock and gravel are preferred areas for the spawn. Other times of the year they are more likely to roam around in deeper water. As always, stay around schools of baitfish. They are eager to feed throughout the lake, but tend to concentrate around structure on points, flats and ledges off the river channels. Walleye have excellent, low-light vision which helps them find food in deep or murky water. Make an effort to be on the water during low light conditions. A proven method for catching walleye here is trolling with spinners tipped with live bait, or trolling with long-billed, deep diving crankbaits. However casting live bait, jigs, worms and spoons also works well at times. When the lake freezes over in winter, ice fishing for walleye can be very productive. Use GPS to locate spots you normally fish during other times of the year.
Rainbow Trout Fishing
Excellent stocking programs by the Connecticut Fish and Wildlife has helped to maintain a good population of rainbow trout for anglers at Highland Lake. Other trout in the lake include brook trout and brown trout. Fish for trout here with worms, salmon eggs, prepared baits, small spinners, spoons, jerkbaits and small crankbaits in vibrant colors to mimic their preferred prey. While fishing from a boat is preferred, plenty of trout are caught here by anglers fishing from the bank. Additionally, floating or sinking flies, such as nymphs, streamers, or dry flies, are popular choices for fly anglers targeting rainbow trout. Trolling with lures or flies behind a boat, casting near shoreline structures, or still fishing with bait can all yield success. Adjusting lure size, color, and retrieve speed can enhance chances of enticing these colorful and spirited fish. When the lake freezes over, try your luck at ice fishing.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, rainbow trout, brook trout, brown trout, bluegill, pumpkinseed sunfish and yellow perch at Highland Lake in Connecticut.
Highland Lake Fishing Video
For fishing during the season or ice fishing in winter, Highland Lake is a good choice for bass, trout and sunfish. This 450-acre lake located in the northern part of the state, west of center at Winchester has everything you need for an excellent boating, fishing and camping vacation.
Highland Lake, located in Winchester, Connecticut, is a picturesque water body that offers excellent fishing opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. This 444-acre lake is surrounded by beautiful forests and rolling hills, providing a scenic backdrop for a memorable fishing experience.
One of the most popular fish species found in Highland Lake is the smallmouth bass. Anglers are drawn to this lake for its healthy population of smallmouth bass, known for their strength and acrobatic fights. The rocky shorelines, submerged structures, and deep drop-offs provide ideal habitat for smallmouth bass. Anglers often use techniques such as casting with jigs, crankbaits, or soft plastic baits to entice these prized game fish.
In addition to smallmouth bass, Highland Lake is also home to other popular fish species, including largemouth bass, northern pike, walleye, and various panfish species such as yellow perch and black crappie. Anglers can enjoy targeting these species using a variety of baits and lures, including spinnerbaits, live minnows, or jigs.
When planning a fishing trip to Highland Lake, anglers should familiarize themselves with the fishing regulations specific to the lake, including size and creel limits for different fish species. Adhering to these regulations helps protect the fish population and ensures a sustainable fishery for future generations.
Highland Lake in Connecticut offers a scenic and rewarding fishing experience with its diverse fish species, boating opportunities, and nearby camping options. Whether you're targeting bass, pike, walleye, or panfish, Highland Lake provides a tranquil setting for anglers to enjoy a memorable fishing adventure in the heart of nature.
There are over 7 miles of shoreline and plenty of deep hiding places for the residing fish species to hang out. The lake is popular with bass tournament anglers, trout enthusiasts, and the fishing public seeking bluegill, perch and other sunfish for fun or a fish fry. Highland Lake Boat Launch, The Marina at Highland Lake, rental boats and other amenities are open to the public.
Primary fish species residing in Highland Lake
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Highland Lake Amenities
Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boating is a popular activity on Highland Lake, allowing anglers to explore different areas and find their preferred fishing spots. The lake permits motorized boats, making it convenient for anglers to navigate the waters and cover larger areas. Canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards are also commonly seen on the lake, offering a quieter and more intimate fishing experience.
Fishing Boat Rentals
The Marina at Highland Lake
Rentals: Pontoon boats, canoes and kayaks
860 469-2870
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Highland Lake Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, on the north side of the lake, off W Lake Street, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with paved parking.
Marinas
Marina at Highland Lake
173 Lake Street
Winsted, CT 06098
860-469-2870
Fishing Guides On Highland Lake
If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.
Fishing License
Click here for a Connecticut Fishing License.
For those looking to extend their fishing trip, Highland Lake offers nearby camping facilities. Nearby state parks and private campgrounds provide amenities such as tent sites, RV hook-ups, picnic areas, and access to nature trails, allowing anglers to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area and enjoy a complete outdoor experience.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
White Pines Campsites - 860 379-0124
Austin Hawes Campground - 860 379-0922
Highland Lake CT Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Highland Lake
The Marina at Highland Lake
173 Lake St
Winsted, CT 06098
860 469-2870
Fishing lakes in each state.
080124
Highland Lake in CT
CONNECTICUT
Fishing for bass and trout in northern CT.
