Pickerel Lake, Canton, Connecticut

Pickerel Lake sits nestled in the towns of Colchester and East Haddam, Connecticut, offering visitors a serene escape into nature. This beautiful water body spans 88.6 acres with an average depth of 6 feet, making it easily accessible for various recreational activities. The lake is renowned for its exceptional fishing opportunities, particularly for largemouth bass, chain pickerel, and bluegill.

When you visit Pickerel Lake, you’ll discover a well-maintained body of water managed by the State of Connecticut as a Bass Management Lake. The shallow, well-mixed system creates ideal conditions for both fishing enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful day on the water. A boat launch provides convenient access, allowing you to fully enjoy everything this charming Connecticut lake has to offer.

Connecticut 2025 Deals!
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in Connecticut! Look for deals here:
Connecticut Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs

Pickerel Lake

Pickerel Lake is a charming water destination tucked away in Connecticut. This hidden gem offers visitors a peaceful retreat from busy city life. You’ll find natural beauty at every turn as you explore this serene lake.

The lake is known for its fishing opportunities, with pickerel being the namesake catch. You can spend relaxing hours on the water trying to reel in your next big fish. Many local anglers visit regularly during fishing seasons.

Surrounding the lake, you’ll discover beautiful scenery and wildlife. The natural environment provides a perfect backdrop for photography, bird watching, or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon outdoors. You might spot various bird species and other wildlife that call this area home.

During warmer months, the lake becomes a popular spot for recreational activities. You can enjoy paddling, swimming, or just sitting by the shore soaking in the tranquility. The changing seasons bring different experiences, making it worth visiting throughout the year.

Rating: 4.5 (13 reviews)
Location: Connecticut

Geography and Surroundings

Pickerel Lake sits nestled in a picturesque area of Connecticut, offering visitors easy access to its tranquil waters. The lake’s natural landscape provides an ideal habitat for various plant and animal species, creating a scenic environment for visitors to enjoy.

Location and Access

Pickerel Lake is located in Middlesex County, Connecticut, though parts of it may extend into New London County as well. The 82-acre body of water lies near Moodus, making it a convenient destination for locals and tourists alike. You’ll find the lake easily accessible thanks to a public boat launch that welcomes both anglers and recreational boaters.

Getting to Pickerel Lake is straightforward with well-marked roads leading to the public access points. The lake’s relatively central location in Connecticut makes it a perfect day trip destination from Hartford, New Haven, or even parts of Rhode Island.

During your visit, you can take advantage of the public boat launch to get your craft into the water without hassle.

Natural Landscape

Pickerel Lake encompasses approximately 88.6 acres of water surface with a mean depth of about 6 feet, making it a relatively shallow lake. This shallow depth creates a well-mixed water system with distinctive Langmuir circulation patterns that contribute to the lake’s unique ecosystem.

The shoreline features a mix of natural vegetation and developed areas. Unfortunately, a July 2004 survey found the lake was dominated by two invasive plant species, though several native species still exist in small patches throughout the water body.

You’ll notice the lake’s calm surface reflects the surrounding trees and sky, creating picture-perfect views, especially during sunrise and sunset. The shallow nature of the lake means it warms quickly in summer months, making it ideal for swimming and water activities.

Recreational Opportunities

Pickerel Lake offers visitors a variety of outdoor activities throughout the year. This Connecticut gem provides both water-based fun and land adventures for all ages.

Fishing and Boating

Pickerel Lake is known for its outstanding fishing opportunities. As a Connecticut Bass Management Lake, you’ll find excellent bass fishing here, making it a favorite spot for anglers. The 82-acre lake is stocked with various fish species that provide exciting catches year-round.

You can easily access the water through the public boat launch, which offers ample parking. Small watercraft like canoes, kayaks, and fishing boats are perfect for exploring the lake’s calm waters.

Remember that a planned drawdown will occur from November 2024 until March 2025, which may affect water levels. This management practice helps maintain the lake’s health and recreational value.

The clear waters make for pleasant boating experiences, whether you’re fishing or simply enjoying a peaceful paddle around the lake’s scenic shores.

Hiking and Wildlife

The areas surrounding Pickerel Lake offer excellent opportunities for hiking and wildlife observation. Walking trails wind around portions of the shoreline, providing beautiful views of the water and surrounding woodland.

You’ll have plenty of space for outdoor activities on the grounds near the boat launch. Many visitors enjoy:

Beach volleyball
Frisbee games
Picnicking
Bird watching

The lake’s natural setting attracts various bird species and wildlife. Bring your binoculars to spot herons, osprey, and other water birds that frequent the area.

During quieter moments, you might glimpse deer, foxes, or other woodland creatures coming to the water’s edge. The scenic landscape changes with the seasons, making each visit unique throughout the year.