Fishing Charlotteburg Reservoir in Passaic County, New Jersey

• Overview

  Set in Passaic County, Charlotteburg Reservoir is a New Jersey water. Tidal water begins 27 miles from here. At some 326 acres it is far too large to cover on foot in a day. The outline measures near 5.3 miles, so local knowledge counts. On our Passaic County list it sits near the top for size. You are 3.7 miles from Kinnelon. It is 16 miles to Paterson, the nearest city. Rules can differ a short way off, since the county line is near.

• Where to Fish on Charlotteburg Reservoir

  We hold no depth figure for this one. Draw-down through summer strips the margins, so follow the water out. Built water gives depth close in, which suits a bank angler. Passaic County records list brown trout, walleye and brook trout among the fish reported. What holds for the county may not hold for this water. On Charlotteburg Reservoir that means starting tight and working out.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Average temperature peaks around 70°F in July and bottoms out near 25°F in January. The calendar is generous: something works in nearly every month. It is not guaranteed even in a cold spell, so check yourself. November and March are the quiet, comfortable months to be out. On Charlotteburg Reservoir that shapes the whole year.

• Tackle & Baits

  Whether the bank is open is not something our records settle. Nothing in the way of made access shows up nearby: no ramp, no car park, no path. Largemouth respond to soft plastics tight to cover; go weedless where the growth is heavy. A phone call first saves an afternoon. Barbless rules turn up on managed water more often than not. Should this one be busy, Macopin Reservoir is 1.4 miles off. Nothing on Charlotteburg Reservoir should be assumed from this page alone.