Bantam Lake-Morris, Litchfield

Bantam Lake, Morris/Litchfield

At 947 acres, Bantam Lake sits as the largest natural body of water in the State of Connecticut. It is fed by Bantam River and Whittlesey Brook in the western part of the state. Fishing is excellent and there are more than an average of 20 annual bass fishing tournaments per year. Anglers will be able to catch chain pickerel, bluegill, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, northern pike and black crappie. Bantam’s pike fishery is considered by Connecticut’s Fishery Division as its most successful project. Pike frequently reach 10 to 15 pounds and Bantam’s record pike is 28.5 pounds. Although many anglers fish from their boats, shore fishing is quite good.

SPECIES
(BB BK CRA S CP SH LMB NP RB T SMB WP SCK YP TCH)

REGULATIONS

• Northern Pike Lake
• Northern Pike:

1. May 1–Nov. 30: Daily creel limit—2, 26″ minimum length.
2. Dec. 1–last day Feb.: Daily creel limit—1, 36″ minimum length.
3. March 1–April 30: Closed to northern pike fishing.

• All other species: Open year round, statewide regulations apply.

BOATING REGULATIONS

• 6 MPH limit in Nick’s Cove.
• Boats towing water-skiers not permitted within 150 feet of shore, except taking off or landing.
• No riding on deck.
• No motors 11 p.m. to 5 a.m.
• No kite skiing or parasailing without permission.
• Chemical toilets year round
• 20 parking spaces
• Gravel parking surface
• Gravel access road surface
• Paved ramp surface
• ADA Accessible
• Marina dock slips are for renter use only. Use by boat launch patrons is prohibited.

BATHYMETRY MAP

DIRECTIONS

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