Fall is a great time for fishing in West Hartford.

Fernridge Park. Photo credit: Grayson Rivers

By Grayson and Graham Rivers

The leaves are falling and the temperature is dropping, so ready your rod and hit the lake for a new season of outdoor family fun. With West Hartford’s various fishing spots spread all throughout town, you don’t have to go far to reel in tomorrow night’s dinner. 

Bait, Lures, and Tackle

No gear? No worries! West Hartford is a one stop shop for everything fishing related. For live bait, check out the Shell gas station in Bishops Corner, or the Walmart right outside of town. Dick’s Sporting Goods has a wide range of equipment for anglers at all levels, and if convenience is important, visit Googan Squad online for lures and rods.  

Get Licensed and Get Going!

A Connecticut fishing license is a must to begin angling, but for those under 16, you’re free to fish without one. Anyone 16 or 17 can pick theirs up online from the Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection for $16, and for adults the price doubles. But don’t worry – this purchase keeps Connecticut’s waters stocked and teaming with fish. 

Spicebush Swamp Park

McGovern Pond in Spicebush Swamp contains a large variety of fish species, including Trout, small and largemouth bass, bluegill, and perch. A go-to spot, you’ll find plenty of young beginners with their parents on the weekends and seasoned pros casting out 24/7. Those not (yet) into fishing can make use of the park’s benches, trails, and green space.

Buena Vista. Photo credit: Grayson Rivers

Buena Vista Golf Course

Mostly frequented by young adults, the pond behind the West Hartford Art League is home to largemouth bass, carp, and bluegill. Visitors can also spot painted turtles and bullfrogs, and hear cicadas and crickets in the bushes. The locale is also right next to a baseball field and the Cornerstone Aquatics center, for groups with varied interests.

Trout Brook Trail

The newly renovated trail along Trout Brook has brought not only fishers to the scenic spot, but also runners, cyclists, and hikers. On the end of the river nearest to the Center you can expect to catch rock bass, while on the end nearer to Bishops Corner you can expect to catch trout. Trout Brook Trail offers great views not just in the fall, but year round too.

Trout Brook Trail. Photo credit: Grayson Rivers

Fernridge Park

While this spot is best known for its pool and splash pad, its small pond is also a great place for beginner fishers. At Fernridge, patience and a gentle approach is needed to coax out the site’s bluegill, largemouth bass, and perch, so prepare to play the long game.

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