Fishing Bow Lake

AKA: Bow Lake Strafford

Popular Fish Species
Bow Lake Fishing Video
Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boat Launch Ramps
Local Fishing Guides
Fishing License
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Contact Info

Bow Lake, NH

Popular Fish Species Bow Lake, NH

Smallmouth Bass Fishing

Bow Lake maintains a solid smallmouth bass population. Largemouth bass also reside here in good numbers. Numerous bass tournaments are held here annually. Many locals enjoy smallmouth fishing, as smallies are tough fighters and very exciting to catch. Smallmouth bass fishing is particularly 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. 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.

Chain Pickerel Fishing

Chain pickerel ambush baitfish and sunfish which requires cover for them to hide within. Submerged aquatic vegetation, brush, fallen tree limbs, or structures such as rock piles, bridge pilings, rip-rap, or debris. Bow Lake has a very healthy population of these toothy critters, many approaching 30 inches and exceeding 5 pounds. Unlike many freshwater fish species, chain pickerel do not school up. They tend to be loners. Once you catch one, find other, spots with similar cover and depth to fish. Flashy spoons, live minnows, and bait-imitating crankbaits all work well. For added excitement, try fishing topwater lures over vegetation areas. Topwater lures that mimic wounded baitfish are very tempting to these predators. When the lake freezes over, ice fishing can get very exciting with these big pike.

White Perch Fishing

Bow Lake has a healthy population of white perch, which have been a mainstay in the fishery for decades. White perch are great table fare, and are a food source for many predator fish in the lake as well. Fishing for white perch is simple, their primary diet consists of minnows and other small fish, insects and worms. White perch tend to gather in small groups and hang out on relatively deep structure, near cover and/or drop-offs. Use a small hook and sinker. Bait a small hook with minnows, worms or small jigs using 6 to 10 pound line. They make for an excellent fish fry, are a food source for many of the larger predator fish in the lake, and they are fun to catch in winter when ice fishing.

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, rainbow trout, brown trout, bluegill, pumpkinseed sunfish, white perch, yellow perch and chain pickerel at Bow Lake in New Hampshire.

Bow Lake Fishing Video

Quality largemouth and smallmouth bass fishing draws anglers to Bow Lake, a 1,200-acre lake in the southeast part of the state, at Cornway. The 7 miles of shoreline offer boat docks, lay downs and rocky areas for anglers to explore.

Bow Lake, located in Strafford County, New Hampshire, is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts. This picturesque lake spans over 1,100 acres and offers excellent opportunities to catch a variety of fish species. Anglers flock to Bow Lake for its abundant populations of smallmouth bass and largemouth bass. These species thrive in the lake's diverse habitat, including rocky shorelines, submerged structures, and weedy areas. Anglers can also target other fish species such as pickerel, white perch, and panfish like bluegill and sunfish.

The combination of great fishing, boating opportunities, and camping options make Bow Lake a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts in New Hampshire. Whether you're casting a line from a boat or the shore, cruising the lake's waters, or spending the night under the stars, Bow Lake offers a memorable and enjoyable experience for anglers, boaters, and campers alike.

In addition to bass, the lake has good fishing for trout, sunfish, perch and pickerel. A public boat launch ramp is located at Bow Lake Village. Campgrounds, RV parks and lodging are all nearby.

Primary fish species residing in Bow Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Bow Lake Amenities

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

Today's Weather & Forecast

In addition to its great fishing, Bow Lake is a favorite spot for boating enthusiasts. The calm and clear waters make it ideal for various water activities, including water skiing, tubing, and kayaking. Boaters can explore the lake's scenic beauty, navigate its coves and bays, and enjoy a day on the water with family and friends.

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Bow Lake Public Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast section of the lake, off Water Street, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with gravel parking a few blocks away.

Fishing Guides On Bow 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 New Hampshire Fishing License.

For those who want to extend their stay, Bow Lake offers opportunities for camping. There are several campgrounds in the area that provide amenities such as RV sites, tent camping, and access to the lake. Camping near Bow Lake allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the surroundings and enjoy the peacefulness of the lake.

Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby

Saddleback Campground - 603 942-7285

Ayers Lake Farm Campground & Cottages - 603 335-1110