As a body of water with a high abundance of many different species of game fish, Lake Hopatcong is one of the best fishing locations in New Jersey and the entire northeastern region of the United States. This is the largest lake in New Jersey. Lake Hopatcong feeds into the Musconetcong. It can be found near Netcong. Due to vast fishing opportunities, large numbers of anglers travel to Lake Hopatcong each year.
Species | Crappie, LM Bass, SM Bass, Musky/Pike, Walleye |
Fishing
There is a large number of opportunities for sport fishing and excitement at Lake Hopatcong. Due to the huge variety of game fish, this body of water is the perfect opportunity for anglers of all levels. Some of the primary game fish species of Lake Hopatcong include largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, walleye, muskie, channel catfish, yellow perch, crappie, rock bass, and chain pickerel. Largemouth bass is a species that is popular throughout almost all bodies of freshwater across the United States. This species provides exciting captures and an overall great experience. In Lake Hopatcong, largemouth bass can be found in large abundance throughout locations with weed beds, drop offs, and other hiding spots. Fishermen who decide to target this species should travel to Bertrand Island in order to target largemouth bass habitats. Camp Jefferson also provides excellent habitats that are worth targeting. Once an ideal fishing location has been chose, anglers should use light tackle such as jigs, spinners, or buzzbaits. In recent years, buzzbaits have become very successful options. A medium weight rod equipped with a line of 10 to 15 pounds is recommended due to the strong fighting abilities of the larger individuals of the largemouth bass population. Smallmouth bass can be found in an average abundance near Lee's County Park Marina and Camp Jefferson. Fishermen should make an effort to cast lines near submerged timber, shallow weed beds, logs, and coves. Jigs and topwater lures are among the most successful options. Fly rods are also a popular choice among challenge seekers. The walleye is another species that is excellent for those fishermen who enjoy targeting species who can put up a fight. This species can grow beyond 10 pounds and will force fishermen to develop an adequate strategy to capture it. In order to find large walleye, anglers should travel to the deep waters of Lake Hopatcong. The channel next to Bertrand Island is a great place to target. Once in this area, fishermen should use a deep diving crank bait or jig. Smaller walleye can be found along the shore in the Spring. The muskie is the ultimate goal of most sport fishermen who visit Lake Hopatcong. This species can grow beyond 50 inches which allows it to deliver a strong fight. In order to catch this species, fishermen should find a channel and cast from the edge of a boat using black lures. Alternatively, anglers can troll at speeds of 2 to 5 miles per hour. Topwater lures, spoons, and jigs are all effective. The size of the lure is relative to the size of the targeted muskie. Once hooked, fishermen should be patient and allow the muskie to tire itself out before pulling it in.
Facilities
Lake Hopatcong offers lodging, marinas, piers, boat landings, fueling stations, tackle shops, and boat rentals.
The Lake
Hopatcong has an area of 4 square miles. Its shoreline measures out to 45 miles. At its deepest point, Lake Hopatcong is 58 feet.
This body of water is the premier fishing location for those anglers in search of adventure and excitement.
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