What You'll Find on the Farmington River

The Farmington River from New Hartford downstream to the Unionville Dam holds smallmouth bass, shad, and sunfish in a section that's easier to reach than most Connecticut rivers. The water here runs moderate to fast depending on dam releases upstream, and the bottom is a mix of rock, gravel, and silt that holds fish predictably. You can fish from the bank in most places, and several public access points mean you don't need permission to get on the water.

Spring brings shad runs that peak in May and early June—these are strong fish that take small shad flies and spoons. Summer smallmouth fishing is solid from June through September, with the best action in early morning and late evening. Fall sees another push of shad moving through, and water temperatures drop enough that midday fishing becomes productive again.

Key Takeaways

  • The Farmington River between New Hartford and Unionville Dam holds smallmouth bass year-round and shad during spring and fall runs.
  • Public access points at New Hartford's Greenwoods Road and at Unionville allow you to fish without private land permission.
  • Spring shad runs peak in May and early June; smallmouth fishing is most active June through September in early morning and evening.
  • Water levels change with dam releases, so call ahead to the Farmington River Coordinating Committee or check their website for flow forecasts.

Public Access Points and Where to Park

Greenwoods Road in New Hartford is the most reliable starting point. There's a small parking area on the north side of the road near the river, and a short walk gets you to a gravel bar where you can wade or fish from shore. The water here is moderate depth with good current, and it holds smallmouth and shad throughout the season.

Unionville Dam, about three miles downstream, has a parking area on the south side of Route 179. You can fish below the dam where water pools and holds fish, though the area gets crowded on weekends. Above the dam, the river slows and deepens—good for shad in spring but less productive for smallmouth.

Between these two points, the river runs through a mix of public and private land. Respect posted property, and stick to the water itself where you have the legal right to fish. The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) maintains these access points, and they're open year-round during daylight hours.

Seasonal Patterns and What to Fish

Spring shad runs begin in late April and peak through May and early June. Fish small shad flies (size 2 to 4), silver spoons, or white tube jigs in the faster current. Shad hold in deeper pools and along current breaks, so focus on water that's at least four feet deep with visible current. Early morning and dusk are best, but shad will bite all day during a strong run.

Summer smallmouth fishing (June through September) means early mornings and late evenings when water temperatures stay below 75 degrees. Fish topwater plugs, soft plastics, and small crankbaits around rock outcrops, fallen trees, and current breaks. Midday fishing slows considerably, so plan your trip for dawn or dusk. Water levels often drop in summer as dam releases decrease, exposing more gravel bars and creating tighter current channels.

Fall (September through November) brings another shad run and cooler water that makes smallmouth active throughout the day. Fish the same shad patterns as spring, and switch to smallmouth techniques as water temperature drops below 60 degrees. By November, shad have mostly moved downstream, and smallmouth fishing becomes the focus until ice-up.

Understanding Water Levels and Dam Releases

The Farmington River Coordinating Committee manages dam releases from upstream reservoirs, and water levels can change significantly throughout the day. High flows make wading dangerous and push fish into slower water along the banks. Low flows concentrate fish in deeper pools but can make access difficult at some spots.

Check the Farmington River Coordinating Committee website or call ahead before you fish. They post flow forecasts that tell you whether water will be rising, falling, or stable. A flow of 300 to 600 cubic feet per second is ideal for wading and fishing; above 1,000 cfs, wading becomes risky. Plan your trip for the afternoon if you know flows are scheduled to increase in the morning.

Gear and Tackle for the Farmington

A 6- to 7-foot medium-action spinning rod works for both shad and smallmouth. Pair it with 8- to 10-pound braided line for shad (better sensitivity and hook-setting power) and 10- to 12-pound monofilament for smallmouth (more forgiving on light strikes). Bring a mix of small spoons (1/4 to 1/2 ounce), shad flies, and soft plastics in white, chartreuse, and natural colors.

Wading boots with good grip are essential—the rocks are slippery and the current can be strong. A wading belt keeps water out of your chest waders if you take a spill. Polarized sunglasses help you spot fish in the clear water, especially in spring when shad are visible in deeper pools.

When to Fish and What to Expect

Early morning (one hour before sunrise through mid-morning) is prime time for both shad and smallmouth. The water is cooler, light is low, and fish are feeding actively. Late evening (two hours before sunset through dark) is nearly as good, especially for smallmouth. Midday fishing in summer is slow, but fall and spring can produce all day if water levels are stable.

Weekdays are less crowded than weekends, and you'll have more water to yourself. The Farmington is popular with local anglers, so expect to see other fishermen, especially on Saturday and Sunday mornings. The river is also used for kayaking and tubing in summer, so be aware of other users and fish early or late to avoid crowds.

Regulations and What You Need to Know

Connecticut requires a fishing license for anyone 16 and older. You can purchase a one-day license online through the DEEP website or at most bait and tackle shops in the area. There are no special restrictions on the Farmington River itself, but shad and smallmouth have statewide size and bag limits that change annually—check the current DEEP fishing guide before you go.

The river is open to fishing year-round, but ice and high water can make access difficult in winter. Respect private property along the banks, and pack out what you pack in. The Farmington is a working river with a history of industrial use, so be cautious about eating fish from it; DEEP posts consumption advisories on their website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish the Farmington River in winter?

Yes, but ice and high water from winter dam releases make it difficult. Late fall (October and November) is more reliable. If you do fish in winter, check water levels first—high flows make wading impossible and dangerous.

What's the difference between fishing above and below Unionville Dam?

Below the dam, water pools and holds shad and smallmouth, especially in spring. Above the dam, the river slows and deepens, which is better for shad but less productive for smallmouth. Most anglers focus on the section between New Hartford and Unionville.

Do I need a boat to fish the Farmington?

No. The river is wadeable in most places, and you can fish from the bank at public access points. A kayak or canoe can extend your range, but it's not necessary for the New Hartford to Unionville section.

What time of year is best for shad?

Late April through June is peak shad season. Fish early morning and dusk, and focus on deeper pools with visible current. Fall (September through October) brings another run, but spring is more reliable and productive.

How do I know if water levels are safe for wading?

Check the Farmington River Coordinating Committee website for flow forecasts. Flows under 600 cubic feet per second are generally safe for wading; above 1,000 cfs, wading becomes risky. If you're unsure, fish from the bank instead.