Candlewood Lake is well known for its great fishing, none more so than fishing for smallmouth bass. Whether you're out there with the kids on a sunny summer morning hoping they experience the thrill of catching their first fish or you're a seasoned veteran who is out there regardless of the weather or the season, Candlewood continues to make fishing memories that last a lifetime.
If you or your club would like to hold a fishing tournament on Candlewood Lake, you must first apply to the CT Department of Energy and Environmental Protection for a permit. There are special guidelines for tournaments on Candlewood Lake.
Please be advised that due to the threat of zebra mussels and the potential susceptibility of Candlewood Lake to them, there are MANDATORY requirements ALL tournament directors and participants must follow. Please read this memo from the CT Department of Energy and Environmental Protection for details.
For more information, please see the CT Department of Energy and Environmental Protection's fishing tournament page.
If you are coming from another body of water, please do your part to prevent the introduction and spread of invasive zebra mussels, to Candlewood Lake. According to Connecticut General Statute (CGS) 26-55-5, it is illegal in the State of CT to import, possess or liberate zebra mussels (and other listed invasive species). Law enforcement will stop boats with listed species, including zebra mussels, from launching. Willful violation of the regulation would be considered a Class C misdemeanor - carrying the possibility of three months of jail, plus a maximum fine of $500.
For more information on zebra mussels and how you can prevent their introduction into Candlewood Lake, please visit this page.
