Fishing at Long Pond, Strafford County, New Hampshire

• Overview

  Out in Strafford County, New Hampshire, sits Long Pond. The shore lies 20 miles out. It measures about 57 acres, which is a comfortable size for bank fishing. 2.6 miles away sits Barrington, the nearest town. The big place round here is Manchester, 26 miles distant. Other water nearby: Ayers Pond near enough 1.4 miles, Round Pond 2 miles, Kenneth Hill Pond near enough 2.2 miles, Nippo Pond 2.3 miles and Preston Pond near enough 2.4 miles. The boundary is close enough to be worth checking before you fish.

• Where to Fish on Long Pond

  Our records carry no depth, so judge it from the bank. The shallow end warms first and pulls fish in ahead of the rest. Look for the band where the shallows give up and the bottom falls away. Species logged across Strafford County include rainbow trout, brown trout and largemouth bass. County records show the wider picture rather than this one place. Treat Long Pond as a water to read rather than to cover.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Temperature averages peak at 69°F in July and bottom out at 21°F in January. The season turns properly here, and fish follow it closely. The open season starts with the thaw, near enough early April. From about early April to around mid December, expect open water on the long-run figures. Late spring and early autumn carry the year between them. On Long Pond the same rules apply, with local timing.

• Tackle & Baits

  Public sources are silent on who controls the bank. You can launch from a ramp around 140 yards away. A small crankbait along the drop and a worm in the thick stuff cover the bass. Parking space is the usual limit rather than the bank itself. A polite question at the farm gate opens more banks than anything else. Failing this one, try Ayers Pond, 1.4 miles away. Check the position at Long Pond before loading the car.