Smallmouth Bass

Bantam Lake in Bantam, Connecticut, offers solid smallmouth bass fishing, especially if you know where to look. While largemouth are more prevalent, quality smallies inhabit the deeper, rockier areas of the lake. Focus your efforts around points, drop-offs, and rocky shorelines, particularly on the lake's western side. Early morning and late evening are prime times, especially during the warmer months. Spring, after the spawn, and fall, when they're bulking up for winter, are historically productive. A great local tactic is to use drop-shot rigs with small worms or crayfish imitations around submerged rock piles. Also, be mindful of the wind; Bantam Lake can get choppy, making boat control challenging. The public boat launch offers easy access, but it can get crowded, so plan accordingly. While not a trophy smallmouth destination, Bantam Lake provides a consistent smallmouth bite for anglers willing to put in the time.