Fishing In Franconia Notch

Franconia Notch State Park is not only for hikers and campers. This state park hosts many other recreational pursuits as well. Bikers can enjoy the paved bike path that runs the entire length of the park, while people who enjoy kayaking can paddle in both Echo and Profile Lake.

Perhaps one of my favorite recreational activities to do in Franconia Notch State Park is fly-fishing in Profile Lake, which is stocked with trout. This 13-acre lake is designated for fly-fishing only.

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(Entrance to Profile Lake)

It sits at the base of the Cannon Mountain, and you can see where the Old Man of the Mountain used the rest. Every direction you look on Profile Lake has an amazing view, which makes the fishing worth it, even if you don’t catch anything!  At Franconia Notch State Park they strive for every visitor to have an enjoyable experience, therefore the daily limit of Brook Trout is two fish, and only one of those fish can be over 16 inches.  However, the very best way to fish is catch and release!!

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(Panorama of Profile Lake)

Profile Lake is the starting point of the Pemigewasset River, which runs through the center of the Park, and runs into attractions such as the Flume, and Basin. Fly-fishing is accessible on the Pemigewasset River at many pull-off points along I-93. Although fly-fishing has grown in popularity over the last couple years there hasn’t been a fly-fishing shop in the area until recently. Luckily, Mountain High Fly in Lincoln has just opened. The owner Sara is super helpful with helping select flies and all the other things you need to be a successful fly fisher.  Perhaps what I like so much about fly-fishing is that is takes a lot of observation.  It is important to know the biology of the insects as well as their lifecycle.  This understand will allow you to recognize what the fish are eating at that time of year, and it will help you become a more successful fly-fisher.

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(A beautiful day for fishing on Profile Lake)

For individuals who prefer spin reel fishing, Echo Lake, just another mile up the road, is the place for you. The Lakeside General Store at Echo Lake has all the live bait and fishing poles that you need.  Echo Lake is larger than Profile Lake with 38 acres of water, used for boating, fishing and swimming.  Echo Lake is also stocked with trout.  Both Echo and Profile Lake are accessible to kayaks and small boats. Echo Lake has a boat launch as well as a boat rental.  Remember if you’re going to be fishing in New Hampshire, make sure you have your Fishing License!

Come enjoy the beautiful outdoors and realize that Franconia Notch State Park isn’t just for hikers!

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Discover Power of Parks SCA Interpreters

Discover the Power of Parks is presented by New Hampshire State Parks in collaboration with the Student Conservation Association and AmeriCorps and made possible by generous financial support from Eversource. The program offers a look into the natural world through hands-on programming. Interpretive programs focus on connecting participants with nature and building appreciation for New Hampshire's unmatched natural heritage. Programs include guided hikes, interpretive tours, and imaginative environmental workshops for children and families. Programs are offered free to guests with paid park admission fee. No pre-registration is required.

5 thoughts to “Fishing In Franconia Notch”

  1. The scenery looks amazing. Is there any guided fishing operators in the area. Would love to fish here but would need some pointers about best fishing flys etc before we set out.

  2. New England is beautiful; there’s water everywhere. My brother and I explored Vermont’s fishing… after reading this, we’ll have to explore New Hampshire — we have family in Gilford.

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