Johnson Lake Fishing Guide, Sussex County, New Jersey

• Overview

  Johnson Lake is one of the Sussex County listings for New Jersey. Tidal water begins 35 miles from here. Surface area is around 37 acres, which gives you real water without needing a boat. Bank access stretches around 1.4 miles in total. Hopatcong Hills sits 3.1 miles from the bank. The nearest city of size is Paterson, 29 miles away. Rules can differ a short way off, since the county line is near.

• Where to Fish on Johnson Lake

  Depth here is unknown, so count the lead down before committing. A reservoir gives you a hard edge, a shelf, and not much else. Points where the flooded channel swings in are the reliable ones. Species logged across Sussex County include brook trout, brown trout, walleye and bluegill. The list covers the county rather than this water alone, so treat it as a guide. At Johnson Lake the water rewards a slow, careful approach.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Climate normals give 71°F for July and 25°F for January. The year turns gently, without extremes at either end. It is not guaranteed from one year to the next. March through May is the strongest run, with October and November a second stretch. The season on Johnson Lake follows the weather closely.

• Tackle & Baits

  Access is not recorded for this water. A carry of half a mile from the nearest parking is the price of fishing here. There is camping recorded roughly half a mile off. Bass water: a Texas-rigged worm near cover, a spinnerbait when you need to cover ground. Look for a notice board at the entrance. Check whether bait restrictions apply before you buy any. If the gate is shut, Panther Lake at 0.6 miles is the nearest alternative. Where Johnson Lake is concerned, a local answer beats a written one.