Fishing Bashan Lake
AKA: East Haddam Lake
Popular Fish Species Bashan Lake, CT
Smallmouth Bass Fishing
Smallmouth bass are the most sought-after species at Bashan Lake, with fish over 3 pounds very common. Smallmouth bass fishing is particularly good when they move to shallow water. Use shallow spinnerbaits, buzzbaits, crankbaits, tube baits and jerkbaits around any sort of rip rap. Around grass, use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. Other times, focus your time on deeper structure with drop-shot rigs, small worms, jigs and spoons. Rock piles and points are prime areas for smallmouth as these areas are also home to crawfish.
Largemouth Bass Fishing
Bashan Lake is a popular bass tournament lake for local events. Weekend and tournament anglers find the fishing to be slow at time, yet pretty good at other times. Fishing for bass can be rewarding, with an occasional bass over 4 pounds being caught. Bass often move shallow and become 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.
Pumpkinseed Fishing
Fishing for pumpkinseed sunfish is very popular here at Bashan Lake. Young and old, beginners and seasoned anglers alike, all enjoy catching a bunch of fat pumpkinseed sunfish. This year, much like recent years, the pumpkinseed population is healthy and always looking for something to eat. Pumpkinseed sunfish fishing is about as basic as fishing gets. Any lighter fishing pole, reasonably light line, small hooks baited with anything edible, creates a great setup. Add a bobber and you can set the depth you prefer the bait to position. Pumpkinseed prefer clear water and hang around brush, rocks, vegetation, docks or any cover available.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, white catfish, rainbow trout, bluegill, pumpkinseed sunfish, redbreast sunfish, yellow perch and chain pickerel at Bashan Lake in Connecticut.
Bashan Lake Fishing Video
Four miles of shoreline surround Bashan Lake, a 270-acre lake in the south-central section of Connecticut. Virtually all the surrounding land is privately owned, so public access for fishing from the bank or boating access is via the state-owned boat launch near the southeast end of the lake.
Nestled in the town of East Haddam, Connecticut, Bashan Lake is a picturesque water body that offers a serene and rewarding fishing experience. This 280-acre lake is a favorite among anglers seeking a peaceful fishing getaway in a scenic setting.
One of the most popular fish species found in Bashan Lake is largemouth bass. Anglers can enjoy targeting these feisty game fish throughout the year. The lake's structure, including submerged logs, weed beds, and rocky areas, provides ideal habitat for bass. Anglers often use plastic worms, crankbaits, and topwater lures to entice the bass lurking in the lake's waters.
Besides bass, Bashan Lake is also home to other sought-after fish species, including northern pike and pickerel. Pike fishing can be particularly exciting as these aggressive predators offer thrilling strikes and powerful fights. Anglers target pike using large spoons, spinnerbaits, or live bait such as large minnows.
When planning a fishing trip to Bashan Lake, it is important to familiarize yourself with the fishing regulations specific to the lake, including size and creel limits for different fish species. Following these regulations ensures the preservation of the fish population and the sustainability of the lake's ecosystem.
Bashan Lake in Connecticut offers a delightful fishing experience in a serene and natural setting. With its diverse fish species, boating opportunities, and nearby camping options, it is a perfect destination for anglers seeking a peaceful and fulfilling fishing adventure.
Most amenities for camping, lodging, shopping and dining are a few miles away from the lake.
Primary fish species residing in Bashan Lake
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Bashan Lake Amenities
Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: NEARBY
RV Hookups: NEARBY
Lodging: NEARBY
Convenience Store: NO
Bait & Tackle: NEARBY
Restaurant: NEARBY
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boating is a popular activity on Bashan Lake, allowing anglers to explore different areas and find their preferred fishing spots. The lake allows for motorized boats, making it convenient for anglers to navigate the waters and access various fishing grounds. Canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards are also commonly seen on the lake, offering a quieter and more intimate fishing experience.
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Bashan Lake Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast corner of the lake, off Ballakack Road #1, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
Fishing Guides On Bashan 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, there are camping options near Bashan Lake. Nearby state parks and private campgrounds offer facilities for anglers to set up their tents or RVs and enjoy the tranquility of the surrounding nature. Camping provides an impressive experience, allowing anglers to fully embrace the peaceful ambiance and maximize their fishing opportunities.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
Wolf's Den Family Campground - 860 873-9681
Grandview Camping & Cottages - 860 873-3332
Bashan Lake CT Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Bashan Lake
Bashan Lake Boat Launch
Ballahack Rd No 1
East Haddam, CT 06423
860 424-3000
Fishing lakes in each state.
090724
Bashan Lake in Connecticut.
CONNECTICUT
Information about fishing lakes in Connecticut
Fishing for bass, trout, pickerel, catfish, bluegill and sunfish, at Bashan Lake, in southern CT.
