Cedar Grove Reservoir, New Jersey: Fishing Spots and Seasons

• Overview

  In New Jersey, Cedar Grove Reservoir belongs to Essex County. The bank is 400 feet above sea level. Roughly 92 acres: a morning covers one end, an afternoon the other. About 2.0 miles of bank, so nothing stays unexplored for long. Supplies mean a trip to Little Falls, 0.7 miles off. Paterson is the closest city, 4.3 miles away. The line between counties passes nearby, which can change who manages the water.

• Where to Fish on Cedar Grove Reservoir

  Nothing we hold settles how deep this runs. Draw-down through summer strips the margins, so follow the water out. The arms fish better than the open middle whenever the water is up. Fish documented in Essex County include pumpkinseed, bluegill, largemouth bass and common carp. It is the county picture; the agency list is water-specific. Anyone new to Cedar Grove Reservoir should walk it once before setting up.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Long-term averages put July at about 75°F and January near 29°F. In milder years the surface never sets. In milder years the edges alone go, and the middle never sets. June to September is hot work, so the first and last hours are what count. Plan around that when you fish Cedar Grove Reservoir.

• Tackle & Baits

  The access position is unclear from public sources. Normal Avenue Parking Lot offers parking about half a mile from the water. Mills Reservation runs up to the bank here, which usually means extra restrictions. Largemouth respond to soft plastics tight to cover; go weedless where the growth is heavy. Where the road in crosses private land, ask first. Where the way in crosses private ground, ask first. For a change of water, Great Notch Reservoir is 1.9 miles distant. Nothing on Cedar Grove Reservoir should be assumed from this page alone.