Best Fishing Spots in Wolfeboro
March 12, 2025
Wolfeboro, located on the eastern shore of Lake Winnipesaukee, is one of the top fishing destinations in New Hampshire. Known for its pristine waters and variety of fish species, Wolfeboro provides a mix of deep-water fishing in Lake Winnipesaukee and more relaxed shoreline fishing in the nearby smaller lakes. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just trying it out for the first time, Wolfeboro has a wide range of fishing spots to choose from.
In this guide, we’ll cover the best fishing spots in and around Wolfeboro, what species to target, and insider tips for a successful fishing trip.
Why Wolfeboro is a Fishing Hotspot
Wolfeboro’s location on Lake Winnipesaukee gives anglers access to a variety of fishing environments:
- Deep Water: Ideal for trout, salmon, and lake whitefish.
- Shallow Bays and Coves: Great for bass and perch fishing.
- Nearby Lakes: Wolfeboro is surrounded by smaller, quieter lakes and ponds that provide excellent fishing without the boat traffic of Lake Winnipesaukee.
New Hampshire’s Fish and Game Department regularly stocks the lakes with trout and salmon, ensuring that there’s always something biting — no matter the season.
Best Fishing Spots in Wolfeboro
1. Winter Harbor (Lake Winnipesaukee)
Winter Harbor is one of the most popular fishing spots in Wolfeboro because of its deep, sheltered waters and excellent fish populations.
- Fish Species: Smallmouth bass, lake trout, landlocked salmon, and yellow perch.
- Best Time to Fish: Early morning and late evening for bass; midday for lake trout and salmon.
- Accessibility: Accessible by boat; some shoreline spots available near the town docks.
Tip: Use deep-water trolling rigs for trout and salmon — they tend to stay near the bottom in the summer.
2. Wolfeboro Bay (Lake Winnipesaukee)
Wolfeboro Bay is located right in the heart of downtown Wolfeboro, making it one of the most accessible fishing spots in the area.
- Fish Species: Smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, white perch, and yellow perch.
- Best Time to Fish: Early morning for bass; late afternoon for perch.
- Accessibility: Easy shore access near Cate Park and the public docks.
Tip: Try using soft plastics or live bait near the docks for bass — they tend to hang out around the pilings.
3. Carry Beach (Lake Winnipesaukee)
Carry Beach is a quieter fishing spot located just north of downtown Wolfeboro.
- Fish Species: Smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, and white perch.
- Best Time to Fish: Sunrise and sunset.
- Accessibility: Easy shore access from Carry Beach parking lot.
Tip: Bass are more active near the rocky outcrops early in the morning.
4. Lake Wentworth (5 minutes from Wolfeboro)
Lake Wentworth is a smaller and quieter alternative to Lake Winnipesaukee. Its clear water and weedy shoreline make it ideal for bass and pickerel.
- Fish Species: Largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, pickerel, and yellow perch.
- Best Time to Fish: Early morning and late afternoon.
- Accessibility: Public boat launch at Wentworth State Park.
Tip: Spinnerbaits and topwater lures work well for bass near the weed beds.
5. Smith River (Connects Lake Wentworth to Crescent Lake)
Smith River is a narrow, winding river that provides great fishing for perch and bass.
- Fish Species: Yellow perch, smallmouth bass, and pickerel.
- Best Time to Fish: Spring and summer mornings.
- Accessibility: Shoreline access along the riverbanks.
Tip: Try using live minnows or worms for perch — they gather near the deeper pools.
6. Crescent Lake (5 minutes from Wolfeboro)
Crescent Lake is a small, quiet lake known for its calm waters and healthy bass population.
- Fish Species: Largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and pickerel.
- Best Time to Fish: Morning and evening.
- Accessibility: Public boat launch on the northern side of the lake.
Tip: The western side of Crescent Lake has more structure — fish near the fallen trees and rocks.
7. Rust Pond (10 minutes from Wolfeboro)
Rust Pond is a smaller, no-wake lake with excellent fishing for bass and trout.
- Fish Species: Largemouth bass, rainbow trout, and perch.
- Best Time to Fish: Early morning.
- Accessibility: Shore access available through private campgrounds and rentals.
Tip: Try fly fishing for trout near the southern end of the lake — the water is deeper there.
8. Mirror Lake (15 minutes from Wolfeboro)
Mirror Lake’s calm water and smaller size make it a great spot for fishing from a kayak or canoe.
- Fish Species: Largemouth bass, perch, and pickerel.
- Best Time to Fish: Early morning and sunset.
- Accessibility: Public boat launch on the eastern side.
Tip: Use bright-colored lures — the lake’s clarity can make subtle lures harder for fish to see.
9. Albee Beach (Lake Wentworth)
Albee Beach is a popular swimming spot, but it also offers great fishing for perch and bass.
- Fish Species: Perch, bass, and sunfish.
- Best Time to Fish: Early morning before the beach opens.
- Accessibility: Easy shore access.
Tip: Fish near the drop-offs — bass tend to gather where the sandy bottom transitions to deeper water.
10. Mile Long Bridge (Lake Winnipesaukee)
The bridge creates an artificial bottleneck that attracts fish, especially in the early morning and evening.
- Fish Species: Trout, bass, and perch.
- Best Time to Fish: Sunrise and sunset.
- Accessibility: Accessible by boat or from the shore near the bridge.
Tip: Jigging with live bait works well for trout near the deeper parts of the bridge.
Fishing Regulations and Licensing
New Hampshire requires a state fishing license for all anglers over the age of 16. Licenses can be purchased online through the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department or at local bait shops and marinas.
Daily Catch Limits
- Bass: 5 fish per day (12-inch minimum).
- Trout: 2 fish per day (rainbow and brook trout).
- Perch: No daily limit.
Tip: Always check for updated fishing regulations before heading out, as limits and rules can vary between lakes.
Why Wolfeboro is a Fishing Destination
Wolfeboro’s location on Lake Winnipesaukee and its proximity to smaller lakes and rivers make it one of the best fishing destinations in New Hampshire. Whether you prefer deep-water trolling for lake trout or quiet shore fishing for bass, Wolfeboro offers year-round opportunities for anglers of all skill levels.
By staying at a nearby lake like Belleau Lake (just 25 minutes away), you can enjoy affordable lodging while still having easy access to Wolfeboro’s best fishing spots.
Conclusion
Wolfeboro combines small-town charm with big-time fishing opportunities. Whether you’re fly fishing for trout, casting for bass, or jigging for perch, Wolfeboro’s lakes and rivers offer something for every angler.
Ready to cast your line? Find a lakeside rental near Wolfeboro and start planning your New Hampshire fishing adventure today!
