Fishing Round Valley Reservoir

AKA: Round Valley Lake, RVR, The Valley

By AA-Fishing Staff Writers

Popular Fish Species Round Valley Reservoir, NJ

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Lake Trout Fishing

Fishing for lake trout in Round Valley Reservoir can provide anglers a thrill of a lifetime. The state record, over 32 pounds, was caught here. These large trout can be caught from as shallow as 15 to 30 feet in Spring and Fall, to as deep as 150 feet or more during Summer and Winter. Early December through mid May is a great time to pursue these remarkable fish. However, check regulations regarding the spawn before fishing. It is a monumental help to use fish finders, or other electronics to help in locating these roaming schools of lake trout. They feed on baitfish, so jigs rigged to imitate their prey often work well straight down under the boat. Trolling with numerous set-ups can also produce good catches. When the lake freezes over, ice fishing for big lake trout with spoons can deliver some great catches. Brown trout and rainbow trout also reside here.

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Rainbow Trout Fishing

This year, fishing for rainbow trout in Round Valley Reservoir is on the rise. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection provides excellent fisheries management, including stocking programs. 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. 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. Brown trout and lake trout also reside here.

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Largemouth Bass Fishing

Round Valley Reservoir offers good fishing for largemouth bass. Recently, the fishing for bass has continued to impress. When the bite is good, bass typically move shallow and are quite aggressive. If you find them shallow and they are not tempted to bite, slow down and use smaller, lighter baits. Fishing for largemouth bass is good virtually any time they are shallow - in spring, mornings in summer, and during warm Fall afternoons. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap. Around grass use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In deeper water, big worms, jigs and spoons are three good weapons. In winter, spend your time fishing Round Valley Reservoir on deeper structure where the bass spend much of their time. Smallmouth bass and spotted bass also reside here in good numbers.

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Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, white catfish, rainbow trout, brown trout, lake trout and bluegill at Round Valley Reservoir in New Jersey.

Round Valley Reservoir Fishing Video

Treated as a Trophy Trout Lake, Round Valley Reservoir offers some of the finest trout fishing in the state. This is a 2,300-acre lake in the northwest part of the state, with almost 10 miles of shoreline.

Round Valley Reservoir, located in central New Jersey, is a renowned destination for fishing enthusiasts seeking a premier fishing experience. The reservoir is known for its crystal-clear waters, scenic beauty, and abundant fish populations, making it a favorite among anglers.

One of the main attractions of Round Valley Reservoir is its exceptional trout fishery. The reservoir is stocked with rainbow trout and brown trout, providing anglers with exciting opportunities to catch these prized gamefish. Trout fishing at Round Valley Reservoir is particularly popular during the spring and fall seasons when the water temperatures are favorable for trout activity.

In addition to trout, Round Valley Reservoir supports a variety of other fish species, including largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, pickerel, walleye, and catfish. Anglers targeting bass can find success along the reservoir's rocky shorelines and submerged structures, while catfish enthusiasts can explore the deeper sections of the reservoir.

Anglers visiting Round Valley Reservoir should familiarize themselves with the fishing regulations and license requirements set by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection to ensure compliance with state guidelines.

Overall, Round Valley Reservoir offers a world-class fishing experience with its diverse fishery and stunning surroundings. Whether you're casting for trout, exploring the reservoir by boat, or enjoying the camping facilities, Round Valley Reservoir provides anglers with a memorable and rewarding fishing adventure in the heart of New Jersey.

Two boat launch ramps (one concrete, one gravel) are available to the public. Several areas around the lake are accessible for fishing from the bank, including near the boat ramps.

Primary fish species residing in Round Valley Reservoir

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Round Valley Reservoir Amenities

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

Today's Weather & Forecast

Boating is permitted on Round Valley Reservoir, allowing anglers to access different fishing spots and explore the expansive water body. Anglers can bring their own boats or rent them from the onsite boat rental facility. The reservoir allows both motorized and non-motorized boats, providing anglers with options for their preferred boating experience.

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Round Valley Reservoir North Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northwest corner of the lake, off Round Valley Access Road, this is a four-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Round Valley Reservoir South Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, off Stanton Lebanon Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Fishing Guides On Round Valley Reservoir

Yellow Dog Paddle Fishing Guides - rainbow trout, brown trout, lake trout

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 New Jersey Fishing License.

Camping is available at Round Valley Recreation Area, which surrounds the reservoir. The campground offers a range of facilities, including campsites, picnic areas, and hiking trails, allowing anglers to extend their fishing trips and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby

Round Valley Recreation Area Campground - 908 236-6355

Round Valley Reservoir NJ Map - Fishing & Camping Areas

Contact Information

Round Valley Reservoir
Round Valley Recreation Area
1220 Stanton Lebanon Rd
Lebanon, NJ 08833
908 236-6355

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