Largemouth Bass

Largemouth Bass in Watchung offer anglers a chance to fish in a more suburban setting. The area boasts several smaller lakes and ponds that hold decent populations of bass. Washington Rock State Park, while not known primarily for fishing, has some small ponds nearby that can produce. Echo Lake Park in Mountainside, a short drive away, is another worthwhile option. Spring is the best time to target spawning bass in the shallows, while fall can be productive as they feed aggressively before winter. A useful local tip is to focus on areas with submerged vegetation or fallen trees, as these provide cover for the fish. Soft plastics, such as Texas-rigged worms and creature baits, are effective, as are spinnerbaits and crankbaits. The bass in these smaller bodies of water tend to be pressured, so using lighter line and natural-looking presentations can increase your success. Practice catch and release to help maintain the quality of the fishery. Be sure to check local regulations for any specific rules regarding fishing in these parks and lakes.