Wawayanda Lake Fishing near Highland Lake, New Jersey

• Overview

  Wawayanda Lake is a Sussex County water, New Jersey side. Salt water lies 24 miles off. Surface area runs to roughly 248 acres, so plan for one area rather than the whole. The outline measures near 3.6 miles, so local knowledge counts. It is among the larger waters listed here for Sussex County. Highland Lake sits 1.2 miles from here and is the nearest stop. Vernon Center follows at 3.7 miles, then Vernon Valley at 4.7 miles. Two sets of local rules meet not far from this water.

• Where to Fish on Wawayanda Lake

  There is no published depth for this one, so start shallow and work out. Rip-rap along the wall holds fish that the open bank never does. Draw-down through summer strips the margins, so follow the water out. County-wide records name brook trout, brown trout, walleye, bluegill and pumpkinseed. It is the county picture; the agency list is water-specific. The shape of Wawayanda Lake decides where the fish sit.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Seasonal averages run from 25°F in January up to 71°F in July. The season turns properly here, and fish follow it closely. Winter locks it down, and late March brings it back. Climate averages put the opening at about late March and the closing near late December. September and October fish steadily right up to the freeze. That shapes the year on Wawayanda Lake.

• Tackle & Baits

  The access position is unclear from public sources. There is a launch about half a mile from the bank. Overnight stays are possible half a mile away. A picnic site half a mile off makes this workable with family in tow. Toilets are half a mile away, which matters on a long session. A nature reserve borders this water, which usually brings restrictions. Where a permit is needed, the nearest town usually sells it. Failing this one, try Laurel Pond, 0.4 miles away. For Wawayanda Lake in particular, ask before you travel.