Fishing Johnson Pond

AKA: Flat River Reservoir

Most Popular Fish
Johnson Pond Fishing Video
Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boat Launch Ramps
Local Fishing Guides
Fishing License
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
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Johnson Pond, RI

Popular Fish Species Johnson Pond, RI

Johnson Pond Popular Fish - Largemouth Bass

Largemouth Bass Fishing

Johnson Pond is a popular bass fishing tournament lake with annual events held by local and state fishing organizations. Both weekend and tournament anglers are catching bass in good numbers. Anglers can also catch smallmouth bass and spotted bass, which reside here in decent numbers. Recent results by bass fishing tournament participants, attest to the fact that fishing for largemouth bass has been quite rewarding, with an occasional bass over 6 pounds being weighed in. A history of careful fisheries management by the Fish & Wildlife, Rhode Island Department of Environmental has helped to maintain a thriving bass fishery. In Johnson Pond, bass often move shallow and become fairly aggressive when they are in a feeding mood. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap. Around grass, use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In deeper water, drop shot rigs, big worms, jigs and spoons are good options. In winter, spend your time fishing deeper structure where the bass spend much of their time. In winter when the lake freezes over and the ice is safe, bass can also be caught while ice fishing.

Johnson Pond Popular Fish - Black Crappie

Black Crappie Fishing

A nice population of black crappie resides in Johnson Pond. Crappie tend to run in schools, and once a school is located, there is a good chance for catching significant numbers. Crappie fishing is easy and requires simple, basic gear. Virtually any fishing pole, reasonably small line and crappie jigs or small hooks baited with live bait, creates the ideal setup. Add a bobber and you can set the depth you prefer the bait to maintain. The best time to catch crappie tends to be at dawn and dusk. Live bait and small jigs are the most common method for crappie here. When the lake freezes over, ice fishing is often a great way to catch a nice bunch of slabs. Because crappie prefer cover and structure, locate brush and vegetation in appropriate water depths. Using a fish finder can help locate schools of crappie, which tend to stack vertically around cover. In spring and fall focus on the 8 to 12 foot range. As the crappie move deep in summer and winter, follow points out deep, as well as find ledges near channels in deeper water.

Bluegill Fishing

Fishing for bluegill is a time-honored tradition at Johnson Pond. Young and old, beginners and seasoned anglers alike, all enjoy catching a bunch of fat bluegill. This year, much like recent years, the bluegill population is healthy and always looking for something to eat. Bluegill fishing is as basic as fishing gets. Any pole, reasonably small line and small hooks baited with anything edible, creates the ideal setup. Add a bobber and you can set the depth you prefer the bait to position. Bluegill hang around brush, rocks, vegetation or any cover available. When the lake freezes over, try your luck at ice fishing.

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, black crappie, bluegill, pumpkinseed sunfish, yellow perch and chain pickerel at Johnson Pond in Rhode Island.

Johnson Pond Fishing Video

Boating, water skiing and fishing are all popular at Johnson Pond, aka Flat River Reservoir, a 650-acre lake in the north-central part of the state, at Coventry. This winding lake has over fifteen miles of shoreline to explore by canoe, kayak or power boat.

Johnson Pond is a picturesque freshwater lake located in the southern part of Rhode Island, near the town of Coventry. Covering an area of approximately 650 acres, it offers ample opportunities for fishing and outdoor recreation.

Fishing at Johnson Pond is a favorite pastime for both local anglers and visitors alike. The lake is known for its diverse fish population, providing anglers with a chance to catch various species throughout the year. Among the popular fish species found in Johnson Pond are smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, chain pickerel, yellow perch, and pumpkinseed.

Smallmouth and largemouth bass are the prized catches for many anglers at Johnson Pond. These bass species thrive in the lake's waters, offering exciting fishing experiences. Anglers often target them using a variety of lures and baits, including soft plastics, crankbaits, and topwater lures.

Chain pickerel are another prevalent species in Johnson Pond, known for their aggressive strikes and voracious appetites. These toothy predators offer thrilling action for anglers, and they can be caught using a variety of flashy lures and live baits.

Yellow perch and pumpkinseed are popular panfish species that are abundant in Johnson Pond. Anglers, especially those looking for a relaxed and family-friendly fishing experience, enjoy catching these fish using simple rigs and live baits.

Johnson Pond's accessible location and diverse fish population make it an excellent destination for anglers of all skill levels. Whether it's targeting bass, pickerel, or panfish, anglers are sure to have an enjoyable and rewarding fishing experience at this serene Rhode Island lake.

Flat River Reservoir boat ramp, Zeke's Bridge Fishing Access and Water's Edge Campground are three options for launching boats. Fishing enthusiasts can wet a line to catch bass, sunfish, perch and chain pickerel. Much of the lake is surrounded by dense forest and private homes, but adventurous anglers can always find a spot for fishing from the bank.

Primary fish species residing in Johnson Pond

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Johnson Pond Amenities

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

Today's Weather & Forecast

Besides fishing, Johnson Pond is a great spot for boating and camping. Anglers can explore the lake's tranquil waters, taking in the scenic beauty and wildlife. The lake's camping facilities offer a chance to extend the fishing trip and immerse in the peaceful ambiance of the area.

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Zeke's Bridge Fishing Access Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, on the south side of the lake, off Harkney Hill Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with gravel parking.