Mascoma Lake near Enfield: Fishing Spots, Seasons and Access

• Overview

  In New Hampshire, Mascoma Lake falls inside Grafton County. This is lake country bush country. This is sizeable water at about 1,155 acres, and a boat opens up most of it. At about 11 miles of edge, most people work one arm at a time. On our Grafton County list it sits near the top for size. The nearest town is Enfield, 0.7 miles away. Manchester is the closest city, 56 miles away. The county line runs close by, so rules can change within a short drive.

• Where to Fish on Mascoma Lake

  The books put it at 68 ft. Standing timber shows when the level drops, and fish sit against it. Built water gives depth close in, which suits a bank angler. Reported across Grafton County: rainbow trout, brook trout and smallmouth bass. Records at this level tell you what is in the area. On Mascoma Lake that means starting tight and working out.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Temperature averages peak at 68°F in July and bottom out at 17°F in January. The year splits cleanly: hard water, then open water. The lid usually goes in early April, which opens the strongest weeks of the year. Expect the water usable from around early April until roughly early December. Look to early summer and the first cool weeks of autumn. Time your trip to Mascoma Lake by conditions rather than dates.

• Tackle & Baits

  This one is in public ownership, with the usual conditions. There is a ramp at Mascoma Lake Boat Launch, half a mile out. The nearest car park we can see is half a mile out, so expect a walk with your gear. Bass water: a Texas-rigged worm near cover, a spinnerbait when you need to cover ground. Gates get locked out of season on water like this. Access can change hands, so last year's answer may not hold. Enfield Reservoir at 2.4 miles is the sensible second choice. Rules at Mascoma Lake are worth checking on the day.