Cozy Lake Fishing Guide, Morris County, New Jersey

• Overview

  Cozy Lake is a Morris County water, in New Jersey. It sits in lake country bush. At about 27 acres, a day is enough to walk the shoreline properly. You are 4 miles from Lake Telemark. Paterson is the closest city, 19 miles away. If this one is busy: Green Pond near enough 0.8 miles, Moosepac Pond some 0.9 miles off, Lake Swannanoa near enough 0.9 miles, White Rock Lake some 1.6 miles off and Egbert Lake near enough 1.8 miles. Rules can differ a short way off, since the county line is near.

• Where to Fish on Cozy Lake

  There is no recorded depth, so work from what you can see. Built water gives depth close in, which suits a bank angler. Standing timber shows when the level drops, and fish sit against it. Across Morris County, recorded fish include brown trout, brook trout and northern pike. Records at this level tell you what is in the area. The near bank of Cozy Lake is often the one people ignore.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Long-run averages give July about 70°F and January about 25°F. Seasons are distinct, and each one fishes differently. Hard water holds through the cold months, breaking up near late March. In an average year the thaw lands around late March and the freeze near late December. The first weeks of open water and the last are the ones to plan for. Expect Cozy Lake to follow that timing.

• Tackle & Baits

  No access rule appears in what we hold. Parking within half a mile means no long carry with tackle. For the bass here, soft plastics worked slow along cover and a spinnerbait for searching do most of the work. Check whether a boat is allowed before you tow one. Where the way in crosses private ground, ask first. Green Pond sits 0.8 miles off and takes the overflow. For Cozy Lake, the notice at the access point is the final word.