Fishing Merrill Creek Reservoir, NJ
AKA: Merrill Creek Lake
Boat and bank fishing
Last updated on .
Popular Fish Species
Brown Trout
Currently, fishing for brown trout in Merrill Creek Reservoir is good, and occasionally delivering some big specimens. These hearty fighters migrate around the lake in search of baitfish and comfortable water temperatures, preferably in the 50 to 62 degree range. In spring brown trout, along with the baitfish, move to the shallows which warms first. As the days get warmer in summer they move deeper, again following schools of bait. As Fall and Winter arrive, browns tend to stay in deeper water. Nightcrawlers are always a good bait for brown trout. In-line spinners, jerkbaits, bait-colored crankbaits and small spoons are other options. Experiment with depth and retrieve speed.
Rainbow Trout
Again this year, fishing for rainbow trout in Merrill Creek Reservoir is exciting anglers. Consistent stocking programs by New Jersey Fish and Wildlife have maintained a good population of rainbow trout for anglers. Fish for rainbow 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. 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.
Smallmouth Bass
Fishing for smallmouth bass is a favorite pass time of many locals at Merrill Creek Reservoir. Smallmouth bass get fat and feisty here. They make their home here in the fertile waters of Merrill Creek Reservoir. Fishing for smallmouth bass is good here anytime they are shallow - especially in spring, during high water, mornings in summer and during warmer fall afternoons. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap. Around grass use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In winter, spend your time on deeper structure with small worms, ned rigs, drop shots, jigs and spoons.
Lake & Fishing Video
Fishing tips for boat or bank fishing
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, black crappie, white crappie, walleye, rainbow trout, brown trout, lake trout, bluegill, white bass, white perch, yellow perch and chain pickerel at Merrill Creek Reservoir in New Jersey.
The lake covers 650 acres and has about 7 miles of shoreline, some of which is available to anglers for fishing from the bank.
Primary fish species residing in Merrill Creek Reservoir
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Today's Weather & Forecast
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
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Fishing License
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Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Merrill Creek Reservoir Visitor Center
34 Merrill Creek Rd
Washington, NJ 07882
908 454-1213
Fishing lakes in each state
020626
NEW JERSEY
Information about fishing lakes in New Jersey
Merrill Creek Reservoir offers excellent fishing for lake trout as well as bass, crappie, rainbows, brownies, white bass, pike, perch and sunfish in northwest NJ.
