Bates Pond near Norwich: Fishing Spots, Seasons and Access

• Overview

  Set in Southeastern Connecticut Planning Region, Bates Pond is a Connecticut water. The setting is rolling hill. Start from Norwich, 2.4 miles down the road. Further out sit Preston City (3 miles) and Lisbon (4.9 miles). The county line is nowhere near, so one local authority covers the water. Regulars know where the fish sit; visitors have to find out.

• Where to Fish on Bates Pond

  Open data we checked carries no depth for this water. Bays and points beat straight shoreline every time on water like this. The productive water is a rod length or two out, not a hundred. Reported across Southeastern Connecticut Planning Region: bluegill, black crappie, striped bass and largemouth bass. Some of the species recorded here are protected or tightly regulated, so check what may be targeted before you fish. Fish Bates Pond to its features, not to its size.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Seasonal averages run from 27°F in January up to 71°F in July. The swings are modest, so patterns change slowly. In milder years the edges alone go, and the middle never sets. The cooler months are the comfortable ones to fish here. Plan any trip to Bates Pond around it. Settled weather over several days beats a single fine one.

• Tackle & Baits

  Public data does not answer the access question here. Blueberry Hill Preserve covers this ground, which means extra rules to check. A small crankbait along the drop and a worm in the thick stuff cover the bass. Where access is informal, keep it that way by behaving. Access can change hands, so last year's answer may not hold. Ayer Pond sits 1.4 miles off and takes the overflow. Confirm access to Bates Pond locally before you travel.