What to expect at Pleasant Lake

Pleasant Lake is a 1,400-acre glacial lake in New London, in the foothills of central New Hampshire. The lake holds largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, chain pickerel, and panfish — sunfish and crappie — in shallow bays and deeper channels. The water is clear to moderately clear, with a sandy and rocky bottom in most areas. Public boat access is available at a town-operated launch on the north shore, and the lake is open year-round to fishing, though the practical season runs from May through October for most anglers.

The lake's size and depth variation make it suitable for both boat and shore fishing. Weed beds line the eastern and western shorelines, and a deeper channel runs through the center. The surrounding landscape is residential and forested, with modest development along the shore. Water temperature peaks in July and August, when fish move to deeper water during midday hours.

Key Takeaways

  • Pleasant Lake has a public boat launch on the north shore in New London, with parking and a modest fee; no private launches are available.
  • Largemouth and smallmouth bass are the primary target species, with best results in spring (May–June) and fall (September–October) when fish are active in shallower water.
  • New Hampshire fishing licenses are required for anyone 16 and older; a three-day non-resident license is available if you do not plan to fish multiple times.
  • The lake is fishable year-round, but ice-out typically occurs in late April, and ice forms by late November or early December.

Seasons and timing for Pleasant Lake

Spring (May and June) is the most productive season for bass. Water temperatures rise from the mid-50s to the low 70s, and fish move into shallow bays to spawn and feed. Early morning and late afternoon are most active, and topwater lures and soft plastics work well in the weed beds along the eastern shore. Panfish are also active during this window and are easier to locate in the same shallow areas.

Summer (July and August) slows the bite during daylight hours. Bass retreat to deeper water and structure — the central channel and drop-offs near the dam on the south end hold fish during the heat of the day. Night fishing and early morning trips before 8 a.m. are more productive than midday. Water clarity remains good, so lighter line and smaller lures are often necessary.

Fall (September and October) brings a second strong season. Cooling water temperatures push fish back into shallower feeding zones, and the bite remains active throughout the day. This is also the best time for larger smallmouth bass, which move into rocky areas on the western shore. By late October, water temperatures drop into the 50s, and fishing slows as fish prepare for winter.

Winter fishing is possible but limited. The lake typically freezes by late November, and ice-out occurs in late April. Ice fishing for panfish is practiced by some anglers, but the season is short and conditions can be unpredictable. Most recreational fishing stops after November.

Species and what to fish for

Largemouth bass are the most abundant bass species on Pleasant Lake. They prefer the weed beds and shallow bays on the eastern and western shores, particularly in spring and fall. Soft plastic worms, crankbaits, and topwater lures are effective. Fish early morning and late afternoon for the best results, especially in summer.

Smallmouth bass are present but less numerous than largemouth. They favor rocky structure and deeper water, particularly along the western shore and near the dam. Tubes, crankbaits, and live crayfish produce consistent results. Smallmouth are more active in cooler water, making fall an excellent season for targeting them.

Chain pickerel are common throughout the lake and are often caught incidentally while bass fishing. They strike aggressively at spinners and soft plastics. Pickerel are less selective than bass and can provide fast action, especially in spring and fall.

Panfish — primarily bluegill, pumpkinseed sunfish, and black crappie — are abundant in shallow water and weed beds. They are easiest to catch in spring and early summer. Small jigs, live crickets, and worms work well. Panfish are a good option for anglers with children or those seeking consistent action without requiring specialized techniques.

Access, parking, and boat launch details

The primary public access point is the Pleasant Lake Public Boat Launch, located on the north shore in New London. The launch has a single concrete ramp, parking for approximately 20 vehicles with trailers, and a small parking area for day-use visitors. A modest daily launch fee is charged; contact the New London Parks and Recreation Department for current rates and hours of operation.

The launch is maintained seasonally and is typically open from May through October, though the exact opening and closing dates vary by year. Call ahead to confirm conditions, especially in early spring and late fall. The facility has no fuel, bait, or tackle services on-site, so plan accordingly.

Shore fishing is possible in limited areas. The public launch area allows some bank fishing, and a small public beach area on the north shore permits wading and casting. Private property surrounds most of the shoreline, so do not trespass. Kayak and canoe access is available from the launch, and paddling to remote bays can be productive, especially for panfish.

Regulations and licensing requirements

New Hampshire requires a fishing license for anyone 16 years old and older. Resident licenses are available for the calendar year or for shorter periods. Non-residents can purchase a three-day license, a seven-day license, or an annual license. Licenses are sold online through the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department website, at the launch area (if a vendor is present), or at local sporting goods stores.

Bass on Pleasant Lake have a 12-inch minimum length limit with a daily bag limit of five fish. Pickerel and panfish have no minimum size and generous bag limits. Specific regulations can change, so check the current New Hampshire fishing regulations before your trip. The Fish and Game Department publishes an annual guide available online and at license vendors.

Catch-and-release is encouraged, particularly for larger bass, to maintain the fishery. The lake is open to fishing year-round, but ice fishing requires additional caution and awareness of local conditions.

What to bring and how to prepare

Bring a mix of lures suited to the species you are targeting. For bass, pack soft plastics (worms, crawfish imitations, and shad patterns), crankbaits in natural colors, and topwater lures for early morning and evening. For panfish, small jigs (1/32 to 1/8 ounce) and live bait — crickets, worms, or minnows — are reliable. A medium-power spinning rod (6 to 6.5 feet) works well for all species on this lake.

Bring sunscreen, a hat, and polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and help you spot fish in the clear water. A life jacket is required by law if you are in a boat. Bring water and snacks, as there are no services at the launch. If you plan to fish in fall or early spring, bring layers — mornings can be cold even when midday is comfortable.

Check the weather forecast and water conditions before you go. Pleasant Lake can develop chop in wind, making small boats uncomfortable. Calm mornings are ideal for launching and fishing. If you are unfamiliar with the lake, consider hiring a local guide for your first trip — they can show you productive areas and save you time learning the structure.

Nearby fishing and lodging options

New London is centrally located in New Hampshire's Lakes Region, and several other lakes are within 30 minutes. Sunapee Lake, 15 minutes south, is larger and holds landlocked salmon and lake trout in addition to bass. Mascoma Lake, 20 minutes north, is shallower and excellent for panfish. Newfound Lake, 25 minutes west, is deep and clear and holds both smallmouth and largemouth bass.

Lodging in New London is limited but includes small inns and bed-and-breakfasts. The nearby towns of Sunapee and New London have restaurants and shops. Camping is available at several state parks within the region, including Pillsbury State Park, about 20 minutes away. If you are planning a multi-day fishing trip, consider basing yourself in Sunapee or Hanover and making day trips to Pleasant Lake and neighboring waters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish Pleasant Lake without a boat?

Yes. The public launch area and beach allow shore fishing and wading. Kayaks and canoes can be launched from the same ramp. Shore fishing is most productive in spring and fall when fish move into shallow water. You will have access to fewer areas than a boat angler, but panfish and smaller bass are catchable from shore.

What is the best time of day to fish Pleasant Lake?

Early morning (sunrise to 9 a.m.) and late afternoon (4 p.m. to sunset) are most productive, especially in summer. In spring and fall, the bite remains active throughout the day. Avoid midday in July and August, when fish move deep and the sun is intense.

Is Pleasant Lake good for beginners?

Yes. The lake holds panfish that are easy to catch and forgiving of technique mistakes. Largemouth bass are abundant and strike readily in spring and fall. The clear water and moderate size make it less intimidating than larger lakes. Bring simple gear — a spinning rod, small jigs, and live bait — and you will have success.

Do I need a boat to fish Pleasant Lake effectively?

A boat gives you access to deeper water and more structure, but it is not required. Shore and kayak anglers catch fish regularly, especially in spring and fall. If you do not have a boat, focus on the weed beds and shallow bays accessible from shore, or rent a kayak to explore deeper areas.

What should I do if the launch is closed in early spring?

Call the New London Parks and Recreation Department to confirm the opening date. If the launch is not yet open, you can still fish from shore or wait a few days for the ramp to be cleared and maintained. Ice-out typically occurs in late April, and the launch usually opens within a week or two after that.