Highland Lake near Woodland Park: Fishing Spots, Seasons and Access

• Overview

  Highland Lake sits within Passaic County in New Jersey. Beyond the shoreline you have rolling hill. Small at around 4 acres: two anglers spread out cover most of it. Our Passaic County list holds plenty of bigger water. The town to know is Woodland Park, 0.9 miles out. It is 1.2 miles to Paterson, the nearest city. It sits near the edge of the county, so check which rules apply.

• Where to Fish on Highland Lake

  We hold no depth figure for this one. Inflow corners move water, and moving water gathers fish. Built water gives depth close in, which suits a bank angler. Fish documented in Passaic County include brown trout, walleye, brook trout, bluegill and largemouth bass. The county list is broader than any single water. On Highland Lake a short move beats a long cast.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Climate records put July near 75°F and January near 29°F. Mild ends to the year keep the season long. Some winters give nothing at all, so plan for open water. Autumn steadies things again once the heat lets go. Keep it in mind when planning a trip to Highland Lake. The first frost of the year slows things for a few days.

• Tackle & Baits

  Public sources are silent on who controls the bank. Mapping shows parking within half a mile. Garret Mountain Reservation takes in this water; protected-area rules will apply. A small crankbait along the drop and a worm in the thick stuff cover the bass. Local rules can differ across the county line, so check where you stand. Barbless rules turn up on managed water more often than not. New Street Reservoir sits 0.3 miles off and takes the overflow. Confirm before you fish Highland Lake.