Fishing Lamprey Pond in Rockingham County, New Hampshire

• Overview

  In New Hampshire, Lamprey Pond belongs to Rockingham County. The setting is rolling hill on every side. Ground here is low by New Hampshire standards. The closest town, North Hampton, is 1.9 miles distant. Then Hampton, 2.1 miles, and Hampton Beach, 3.2 miles. Nearby, in order: Meadow Pond some 1.1 miles off, Mill Pond out at 1.2 miles, Burke Pond some 2.5 miles off, Locke Pond out at 2.7 miles and Knowles Pond some 3 miles off. The county line runs close by, so rules can change within a short drive.

• Where to Fish on Lamprey Pond

  Depth went unrecorded, which puts the reading back on you. Work the tide here — moving water feeds, slack water rests. Weed, then depth: that is the order to fish a water of this kind. On a natural lake the weed line and the shelf beyond it do the work. County-wide records name rainbow trout, largemouth bass, brown trout and bluegill. County records show the wider picture rather than this one place. Lamprey Pond gives up more to patience than to distance.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Temperature averages peak at 71°F in July and bottom out at 25°F in January. In milder years the surface never sets. It is not guaranteed even in a cold spell, so check yourself. November and March are the quiet, comfortable months to be out. It holds true on Lamprey Pond more years than not.

• Tackle & Baits

  Whether the bank is open is not something our records settle. The nearest car park we can see is 0.9 miles out, so expect a walk with your gear. This sits inside Hampton Town Forest, so read the reserve notices first. Look for a notice board at the entrance. A polite question at the farm gate opens more banks than anything else. For a change of water, Meadow Pond is 1.1 miles distant. Check the position at Lamprey Pond before loading the car.