Bantam Lake State Park / Morris Accesson Bantam Lake
What's working on Bantam Lake
- 01Bluegill are likely transitioning to deeper water and weed lines as temperatures drop.
- 02Subsurface patterns imitating leeches, baitfish, and aquatic invertebrates will be most effective.
- 03Midge and scud activity remains a consistent food source for bluegill in cooler water.
- 04Opportunistic feeding on Blue-Winged Olive mayflies might occur on warmer, overcast days.
What to tie on at Bantam Lake State Park / Morris Access
Picked from recent reports for this stretch.
Woolly Bugger (Olive)
A highly versatile streamer, imitating leeches and baitfish which are consistent food sources for bluegill in the fall, especially in lake environments.
Hare's Ear Nymph
An essential and versatile mayfly nymph imitation, effective year-round for bluegill foraging on aquatic insects.
Buy at AmazonGurgler (Bass)
As spring progresses and water temperatures warm, topwater action for panfish can begin, especially in the late afternoons, making this a good attractor for Bluegill.
Damsel Nymph (Olive)
Damsel nymphs become active in late spring as they migrate towards shore to hatch, making this olive pattern effective when stripped slowly along weed beds for Bluegill.
Elk Hair Caddis
Caddisflies become active in late spring. This dry fly imitates adult caddis, which are a significant food source for rising Bluegill.
Buy at AmazonChironomid Pupa (Black)
Chironomids are a primary food source in stillwaters during spring. This pattern effectively mimics the abundant midge pupae Bluegill will be actively feeding on subsurface.
Pheasant Tail Nymph
This classic nymph imitates various small mayfly nymphs, including BWO nymphs which are active in spring, making it a consistent subsurface producer for Bluegill.
Buy at AmazonWoolly Bugger (Black/Olive)
A versatile streamer effective year-round for predatory fish, imitating leeches and baitfish active in warming spring waters, attracting aggressive strikes from Bluegill.
Scud (Pink/Orange)
Freshwater shrimp (scuds) are a consistent food source in big lakes, especially in areas with aquatic vegetation, and can be very effective in early spring for active Bluegill.
Buy at AmazonConnecticut season by season
What changes on the water through the year, with the flies for each season.
Fly shops nearby
Local flies, current advice and guided trips.