Hooked on Winni: A Guide to Fishing on Lake Winnipesaukee

Welcome to the ultimate guide to fishing on Lake Winnipesaukee! If you’re a fishing enthusiast or just looking to try your hand at catching some of the biggest and tastiest fish in the lake, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about fishing on Lake Winnipesaukee, including local fishing regulations, popular bait and tackle shops, and the best times of year to fish for different species.

Before we get started, let’s take a quick look at the types of fish you can expect to catch in Lake Winnipesaukee:

Lake Trout
Landlocked Salmon
Smallmouth Bass
Largemouth Bass
Pickerel
Yellow Perch
White Perch
Sunfish
Black Crappie
Now, let’s dive into the details.

Local Fishing Regulations

Before you start fishing, it’s important to be aware of the local fishing regulations. In New Hampshire, fishing licenses are required for all anglers 16 years and older. Licenses can be purchased online or in person at local retailers, including bait and tackle shops.

There are also specific regulations for fishing on Lake Winnipesaukee, including restrictions on the size and number of fish you can keep. For example, the minimum length for lake trout and salmon is 15 inches, while the minimum length for bass is 12 inches. It’s important to familiarize yourself with these regulations before you start fishing to avoid any fines or penalties.

Popular Bait and Tackle Shops

If you’re in need of bait or tackle, there are several great shops in the Wolfeboro area. One popular option is Johnson’s Bait and Tackle, located just a short drive from downtown Wolfeboro. They offer a wide range of bait and tackle for both freshwater and saltwater fishing.

Another great option is Melvin Village Marina, which offers a full-service bait and tackle shop as well as boat rentals and repairs. They carry a variety of live bait, including worms, shiners, and smelt, as well as a wide selection of lures and other tackle.

Best Times of Year to Fish for Different Species

The best time of year to fish on Lake Winnipesaukee depends on the species you’re targeting. Here’s a breakdown of the best times to fish for each type of fish:

Lake Trout: The best time to fish for lake trout is in the early spring (April and May) and in the fall (September and October). During these times, lake trout can be found in deeper water, so it’s important to use deep-diving lures or downriggers to get your bait to the right depth.

Landlocked Salmon: Landlocked salmon can be caught year-round on Lake Winnipesaukee, but the best time to target them is in the spring (April and May) and in the fall (September and October). During these times, salmon can be found in shallow water near the shoreline, so using surface lures or trolling with spoons and plugs can be effective.

Smallmouth Bass: The best time to fish for smallmouth bass is in the summer (June through August) when the water temperature is warm. Smallmouth bass can be found near rocky areas and drop-offs, so using jigs or crankbaits can be effective.

Largemouth Bass: Largemouth bass can also be caught in the summer months, but they can also be caught in the spring and fall. Largemouth bass can be found near weed beds and other areas of cover, so using topwater lures or plastic worms can be effective.

Pickerel: Pickerel can be caught year-round on Lake Winnipesaukee, but they are most active in the summer months. They can be found in weedy areas, so using spinnerbaits or live bait like minnows and worms can be effective.

Yellow Perch: Yellow perch can be caught year-round, but they are most active in the spring and fall. They can be found near weed beds and other areas of cover, so using small jigs or live bait like worms or grubs can be effective.

White Perch: White perch can also be caught year-round, but they are most active in the spring and fall. They can be found near rocky areas and drop-offs, so using jigs or live bait like worms or minnows can be effective.

Sunfish: Sunfish can be caught year-round, but they are most active in the spring and summer. They can be found in shallow water near the shoreline, so using small jigs or live bait like worms or grubs can be effective.

Black Crappie: Black crappie can be caught year-round, but they are most active in the spring and fall. They can be found near weed beds and other areas of cover, so using small jigs or live bait like minnows or worms can be effective.

Tips and Tricks for Catching Big and Tasty Fish

Now that you know the best times to fish for each species, let’s cover some tips and tricks for catching big and tasty fish on Lake Winnipesaukee:

Use the right bait: Different species of fish prefer different types of bait, so it’s important to choose the right bait for the fish you’re targeting. Live bait like worms, minnows, and grubs can be effective for many species, while lures like jigs, spoons, and crankbaits can be effective for others.

Fish during the right time of day: Many species of fish are most active during dawn and dusk, so fishing during these times can increase your chances of success. However, some species like lake trout are more active during the middle of the day, so it’s important to do your research before heading out.

Use the right equipment: Using the right equipment can make a big difference when it comes to catching fish. For example, using a light spinning rod and reel can be effective for catching sunfish and other small species, while using a heavier baitcasting rod and reel can be effective for catching larger species like bass and pickerel.

Pay attention to the weather: The weather can have a big impact on fishing success. For example, many species of fish are more active on cloudy days, while others prefer sunny days. Additionally, changes in barometric pressure can also impact fishing success.

Be patient: Fishing can require a lot of patience, so don’t get discouraged if you don’t catch anything right away. Sometimes it takes time to find the right spot or lure that will attract the fish you’re targeting.

Fishing on Lake Winnipesaukee is an experience unlike any other. With a little bit of research and the right equipment, you can catch some of the biggest and tastiest fish in the lake. Remember to familiarize yourself with the local fishing regulations, visit one of the many bait and tackle shops in the area, and pay attention to the best times of year to fish for each species. With these tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to a successful fishing trip on Lake Winnipesaukee!