Bells Lake near Turnersville: Fishing Spots, Seasons and Access

• Overview

  Bells Lake sits in Gloucester County, out in New Jersey. The shore lies 9.7 miles out. Around 33 acres of surface means several distinct areas to work. Nearest place of any size is Turnersville, 1.7 miles away. Philadelphia is the closest city, 15 miles away. Alternatives close at hand: Irvin Lake about 1.2 miles, Kandle Lake 1.9 miles away, Jones Lake about 2.1 miles, Cedar Lake 2.2 miles away and Grenloch Lake about 2.2 miles. The county line runs close by, so rules can change within a short drive.

• Where to Fish on Bells Lake

  Nothing in our records gives a depth for this one. A reservoir gives you a hard edge, a shelf, and not much else. The arms fish better than the open middle whenever the water is up. Fish documented in Gloucester County include bluegill, pumpkinseed, redbreast sunfish, largemouth bass and brown bullhead. Some of the species recorded here are protected or tightly regulated, so check what may be targeted before you fish. At Bells Lake the first feature you find is worth twenty minutes.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Climate normals give 76°F for July and 32°F for January. Ice comes and goes from one year to the next. It should never be assumed safe, whatever the month says. March through May is the strongest run, with October and November a second stretch. Bells Lake runs to its own calendar within the local pattern.

• Tackle & Baits

  There is no clear statement anywhere on who can fish it. Parking is not close: half a mile from the bank, and no nearer option is mapped. Largemouth respond to soft plastics tight to cover; go weedless where the growth is heavy. Take the rules with you rather than trusting memory. Some water is controlled locally without a sign saying so. Failing this one, try Irvin Lake, 1.2 miles away. Ask locally about Bells Lake if anything is unclear.