Freshwater

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• Redfin Pickerel

  Connecticut’s smallest pike species. They are typically mistaken for small chain pickerel by anglers.

• Catfishes and Bullheads

  Catfish and bullheads have eight barbels around the mouth: two off the snout, two off the corners of the mouth, and four under the chin. These long barbels give the impression of whiskers, hence the name “catfishes.”

• Channel Catfish

  The channel catfish is the state’s largest catfish species.

• Chain Pickerel

  The chain pickerel is Connecticut’s largest native freshwater predatory fish. Before the introduction of bass, it was the top predator in the state’s lakes and ponds.

• Atlantic Tomcod

  Sometimes known as “frostfish.” For unclear reasons, Atlantic tomcod have recently experienced a precipitous decline in Connecticut and throughout much of their range.

• Hickory Shad

  The summer/fall recreational fishery for hickory shad is gaining in popularity.

• American Brook Lamprey

  Learn more about this endangered, maybe native, and definitely not parasitic fish!

• American Eel

  The American eel is commonly used for bait and food, but is declining throughout much of its range.

• Bowfin

  Often confused with the snakehead, the bowfin is an introduced fish that has grown rapidly in abundance since 2003.

• Common Shiner

  With no obvious and distinctive characteristics, the common shiner is one of the most difficult fish to identify.

• Fishing Areas Near Connecticut Cities

  Find great fishing spots near Connecticut cities!

• Connecticut Freshwater Record Fish

  Find all current freshwater record fish for Connecticut.

• Freshwater Fishing

  Find all the resources you need to get out and enjoy freshwater fishing in Connecticut!

• Freshwater Record Fish Photos

  View Connecticut's freshwater record fish with pictures!

• Herring Closure

  Emergency Fishery Closure is in effect for Alewife and Blueback Herring. Read on for more information.