Connecticut Fishing Report — February 2026

Connecticut ice fishing roundup

After an arctic blast last week, many Connecticut ponds and coves are now fishable where resident striped bass and other species winter. Anglers report solid hardwater fishing in inland lakes and select river coves, but conditions vary and tidal or current-affected areas remain hazardous.

Current conditions

Northern lakes commonly show 7–12 inches of ice; southern and central waters are patchier with spots of 4–9 inches. Snow cover is widespread, obscuring thin spots—shops advise using a spud bar and proceeding cautiously. Rivers such as the Housatonic are largely frozen, though currents can create unpredictable weak zones.

What anglers are catching

Panfish dominate the catches: yellow and white perch and crappie are active. Trout and largemouth bass are taking baits in shallower water, and pike and pickerel turn up in mixed-bag outings. There have been reports of holdover striped bass and at least one Atlantic salmon through the ice on the Housatonic.

Local reports and tips

Retailers and guides—Black Hall Outfitters, Fisherman’s World and Bobby J’s—recommend heading north for consistent ice and bringing a shovel for snow removal. Effective tactics include small spoons (Swedish Pimple), teardrop tungsten jigs with maggots for perch, Rapala Jigging Raps and small Kastmasters for stripers, and baited setups for trout in 4–10 feet of water.

Safety and forecast

A cold front will push temperatures back to single digits this weekend, increasing pressure on wintering fish. Use extreme caution on tidal rivers, consider fishing from an insulated tent where available, carry safety gear, and check ice thickness frequently.