What to expect at Bigelow Hollow State Park

Bigelow Hollow State Park sits in Union, Connecticut, in the northeastern part of the state, and centers on a 60-acre lake surrounded by 688 acres of forest. The park is known for its clear water, sandy beach, and mix of warm-water and cool-water fish species. You can fish from shore or boat, camp overnight in the park, or visit for the day to swim or hike the surrounding trails.

The lake itself is relatively shallow and weedy in places, which creates good habitat for largemouth bass, pickerel, and panfish. The deeper sections hold some catfish. The park draws both locals and travelers from the Boston area, about 45 minutes away, making it busier on weekends and during summer vacation.

Key Takeaways

  • Bigelow Hollow Lake holds largemouth bass, pickerel, bluegill, and catfish, with the best fishing in spring and fall when water temperatures are moderate.
  • The park has a boat launch, rental boats, and shore fishing access, so you can fish without owning a boat.
  • Connecticut fishing licenses are required for anyone 16 and older, and you can purchase them online or at the park office.
  • The park operates a campground with 40 sites open year-round, though winter camping is limited and requires advance notice.
  • Swimming, hiking, and picnicking are free with day-use parking; overnight camping costs vary by season and site type.

Fish species and seasonal patterns

Largemouth bass are the primary target for many anglers at Bigelow Hollow. They spawn in shallow, weedy areas in spring (April through May) and move to deeper water as the lake warms in summer. Fall (September through October) brings them back to shallower feeding zones. Early morning and late evening are most productive year-round.

Pickerel (chain pickerel) are abundant and aggressive, especially in the weed beds along the eastern and northern shores. They bite consistently through spring and fall and remain active in winter under the ice. Bluegill and other panfish school in the shallows and around submerged structure; summer evenings often produce steady action for panfish on small jigs or live crickets.

Catfish are present but less commonly targeted. They feed primarily at night and respond to chicken liver, cut bait, or prepared stink baits. The deeper basin of the lake, roughly in the center, holds catfish during the day.

Boat access and shore fishing

The park has a single boat launch on the southern shore, suitable for small boats and kayaks. There is no horsepower limit posted, but the lake is small enough that high-speed boating is impractical. Parking for boat trailers is limited; arrive early on weekends. The launch fee is included with day-use parking.

Rowboat and kayak rentals are available through the park office during the season (typically May through September). Rental boats are a practical option if you do not own a boat or want to avoid the launch fee and trailer parking hassle. Reservations are recommended on weekends.

Shore fishing is productive along the southern and eastern banks. The sandy beach area on the south side allows wading and casting. The northern shore has some access points but is more heavily wooded. A hiking trail circles much of the lake and provides access to quieter fishing spots, though some sections are steep.

Connecticut fishing license and regulations

Anyone 16 years old or older must hold a valid Connecticut fishing license. You can purchase a license online through the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) website, by phone, or at the park office. A one-day license costs less than a full-year license and is useful if you are visiting once.

Bigelow Hollow has no special regulations beyond state-wide rules. Bass season runs year-round with a 12-inch minimum length and a 5-fish daily limit. Pickerel have no closed season and a 15-inch minimum with a 10-fish daily limit. Panfish have no size or bag limits. Check the current DEEP fishing guide before you go, as regulations can change.

The lake is open to fishing from sunrise to sunset. Night fishing is not permitted. Ice fishing is allowed in winter when the lake is safely frozen, but you must still hold a valid license.

Camping and overnight facilities

The park operates a 40-site campground with a mix of wooded and open sites. Most sites have a picnic table and fire ring. There are no hookups for water, electric, or sewer; camping is tent-only or small RV (no larger than 20 feet). Bathrooms with flush toilets are centrally located, and potable water is available at spigots throughout the campground.

Sites are reservable online through the Connecticut DEEP website up to two months in advance. Peak season (June through August) fills quickly on weekends. Off-season rates (November through April) are lower, and the campground remains open year-round, though some facilities are closed in winter. Winter camping requires advance notice to the park office.

The campground is quiet after 10 p.m., and quiet hours are enforced. Firewood can be purchased at the park office or brought from home (no collection from the forest is permitted). Pets are allowed in campsites but must be leashed and are not permitted on the beach or in day-use areas.

Day-use parking and amenities

Day-use parking costs a flat fee per vehicle, regardless of how many people are in the car. The fee includes access to the beach, picnic areas, hiking trails, and the boat launch. Parking fills on warm weekends, especially in July and August; arriving before 10 a.m. is advisable.

The park has picnic tables, grills, and a sandy beach with a roped swimming area. A small concession stand near the beach sells snacks and drinks during summer. Hiking trails range from easy (the lake loop) to moderate (the ridge trail on the north side). Dogs are allowed on leash in day-use areas but not on the beach.

Getting there and nearby options

Bigelow Hollow State Park is located at Route 171 in Union, Connecticut. From Hartford, take I-84 east to Route 6 east, then Route 171 north. The drive is about 45 minutes. From the Massachusetts border, it is 20 minutes south on Route 171. Parking for day-use visitors is on-site; parking for overnight campers is assigned at check-in.

The park is close to other northeastern Connecticut attractions, including the Natchaug River (good for smallmouth bass and trout downstream) and several other state forests with hiking. The town of Union has a few small restaurants and a general store, but most supplies should be purchased before arriving at the park.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish at night?

No. Fishing is permitted from sunrise to sunset only. Night fishing is not allowed at Bigelow Hollow.

Do I need a boat to fish here?

No. Shore fishing is productive, especially along the southern and eastern banks. If you want to fish from a boat but do not own one, the park rents rowboats and kayaks during the season.

What is the best time of year to fish?

Spring (April through May) and fall (September through October) are most productive for bass and pickerel. Summer is slower for bass but good for panfish in the evening. Winter ice fishing is possible when the lake is safely frozen.

Can I bring my dog camping?

Yes. Dogs are allowed in campsites if leashed. They are not permitted on the beach or in day-use picnic areas.

How far in advance do I need to reserve a campsite?

Reservations open two months ahead through the Connecticut DEEP website. Peak season sites (June through August) fill within days of opening. Off-season sites are easier to reserve closer to your travel date.