What Third Connecticut Lake Offers

Third Connecticut Lake is a 1,200-acre impoundment in the far north of New Hampshire, straddling the border with Quebec. It's the smallest of the three Connecticut Lakes but often the most productive for anglers targeting lake trout and landlocked salmon. The lake sits at about 1,450 feet elevation and stays cold enough year-round to hold both species without stocking — they reproduce naturally in the inlet streams.

The water is clear and relatively shallow compared to Second Lake, which makes it easier to read structure and find fish in spring and fall. Summer fishing requires deeper presentations, but the lake's modest size means you're never far from productive water. Most anglers fish from boats, though shore access exists at the dam and along Route 3 on the eastern shore.

Key Takeaways

  • Third Connecticut Lake holds native lake trout and landlocked salmon that spawn in inlet streams, making spring and fall the most consistent seasons.
  • The lake is accessible by boat launch at the dam on the southern end, with parking and a small ramp maintained year-round.
  • Trolling deep structure in summer and fishing shallow inlet areas in spring produce the most reliable catches.
  • A New Hampshire fishing license is required; non-resident licenses are available for one day, three days, or the full season.

Seasonal Patterns and What Fish to Target

Spring (April through May) is when both lake trout and salmon move shallow to feed after winter. Fish the inlet streams — particularly the outlet of Second Lake where it flows in — and troll the shallow flats along the eastern shore. Landlocked salmon average 2 to 4 pounds; lake trout run larger, often 3 to 6 pounds, with occasional fish pushing 8 or 9 pounds. Use small spoons, spinners, or live smelt if you can get them.

Summer (June through August) pushes both species deep. Troll the main basin with weighted lines or downriggers, targeting the thermocline around 30 to 50 feet. This is harder fishing and requires more equipment, but the fish are there. Many anglers switch to the inlet streams during early morning and evening when water temperatures drop slightly.

Fall (September through October) reverses the spring pattern. Fish move shallow again as water cools, and the inlet areas become productive once more. This is often the best time to catch larger lake trout. Winter (November through March) is possible but requires ice-fishing knowledge and equipment; the lake freezes solid by December.

Access and Launch Points

The main boat launch is at the dam on the southern end of Third Lake, accessible from Route 3. There's a gravel ramp, parking for about a dozen vehicles, and a small picnic area. The launch is maintained by New Hampshire Fish and Game and is open year-round, though winter access depends on snow removal. No fee is charged.

Shore fishing is limited but possible. You can walk along the dam itself and fish the tailwater below it, which sometimes holds fish moving between lakes. The eastern shore along Route 3 has a few pull-offs where you can access the water, though most of the shoreline is private land or steep banks. Always check posted signs before crossing.

If you're coming from Pittsburg, Third Lake is about 15 miles north on Route 3. The drive takes roughly 25 minutes from the town center. Gas and supplies are available in Pittsburg, but there are no services directly at the lake.

Tackle and Techniques That Work

For spring and fall shallow fishing, small spoons (size 1 to 2) in silver or gold work consistently. Spinners like Mepps or Panther Martins in sizes 1 to 3 also produce. If you have access to live smelt, drift or troll them slowly along structure. Fly fishing is possible in the inlet streams with small streamers (size 4 to 8) in black, olive, or white.

Summer trolling requires heavier tackle. Weighted spoons, lead-core line, or downriggers let you reach 40 to 60 feet where the fish suspend. Jigging with vertical spoons also works if you can locate structure on a depth finder. Many anglers use sonar to find the thermocline, then fish just above it.

The inlet stream where Second Lake flows in is worth exploring with a small canoe or kayak if you have one. Fish hold in the current breaks and deeper pools. Wade carefully — the bottom is rocky and the current can be strong.

What to Know About Regulations and Licensing

New Hampshire requires a fishing license for anyone 16 and older. Non-resident licenses are available for one day, three days, seven days, or the full season. You can purchase them online through the New Hampshire Fish and Game website, at sporting goods stores in Pittsburg, or at the launch itself (though availability at the launch is not may provide).

Lake trout have a 15-inch minimum size and a daily limit of two fish. Landlocked salmon have a 12-inch minimum and a daily limit of two fish. These regulations can change, so check the current New Hampshire fishing digest before you go. Catch-and-release is always an option if you want to fish longer without hitting your limit.

The lake is open year-round, but winter fishing requires ice-fishing registration if you're using a shelter. Check with Fish and Game for current ice conditions before attempting to fish in winter.

When to Go and What to Expect

May and September are the most reliable months. Water temperatures are moderate, fish are active and shallow, and the weather is usually stable. June through August can be productive but requires more effort and deeper presentations. April and October are good but can be unpredictable — some days are excellent, others slow.

Expect to see other anglers, especially on weekends in spring and fall. The lake is popular but not crowded. Weekday mornings are usually quieter. Bring layers — weather changes fast at this elevation, and morning temperatures can be 20 degrees colder than afternoon. Wind can pick up in the afternoon, making the lake rougher and fishing harder.

The lake is scenic, with forested shoreline and views north toward the Canadian border. It's a working landscape, not a wilderness preserve, so you may see logging trucks on Route 3 and occasional industrial activity. That doesn't affect the fishing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a boat to fish Third Lake?

A boat makes fishing much easier and more productive, especially for trolling and reaching deeper water. Shore fishing is possible at the dam and a few pull-offs, but you're limited to shallow water and inlet areas. A small canoe or kayak works well if you don't have a motorboat.

What's the difference between Third Lake and Second Lake?

Second Lake is larger (about 2,000 acres) and deeper, with more dramatic structure and bigger fish. Third Lake is smaller, shallower, and often more consistent for catching fish. Third Lake is also easier to fish from shore. Both hold the same species and are worth visiting.

Can I fish the inlet streams where Second Lake flows in?

Yes. The inlet is productive, especially in spring and fall. You can wade or use a small boat to access it. Fish move through the inlet between lakes, so it concentrates them. The current is strong in places, so be careful wading.

What if I don't catch anything?

Fishing is never may provide. Third Lake is generally productive, but conditions vary by season and day. If you're not catching fish, try moving to different depths, changing lures, or fishing the inlet streams. Early morning and evening are usually better than midday. Talking to other anglers at the launch often yields useful information about what's working that day.

Is there camping near Third Lake?

There are no campgrounds directly at Third Lake, but Pittsburg has several options including the Tall Timber Lodge and private campgrounds. Some anglers camp at Second Lake or First Lake and drive to Third Lake for the day. Check with the Pittsburg Chamber of Commerce for current options.