Fishing locations in Hartford/Central Connecticut are easy to find

Cockaponset State Forest and Pattaconk Lake Recreation Area

18 Ranger Road Haddam, CT Phone: 860-566-2304

The second largest forest in the state, set on 15,652 acres. Areas for fishing, hunting, snowmobiling, hiking and cross-country ski trails, fresh water swimming and picnic areas. Cockaponset State Forest offers youth group camping. There is a seasonal weekend/holiday parking fee at the Pattaconk Recreation Area of $14 for state residents and $20 for non-residents. No fee on weekdays.

Devil's Hopyard State Park

366 Hopyard Road East Haddam, CT Phone: 860-873-8566

The centerpiece of this beautiful park is the 60-foot Chapman Falls. A popular hiking and camping area, the park also has areas for fresh-water fishing, as will as some scenic picnic spots. Activities include bicycling, birding, camping, hiking, picnicking, and stream fishing.Devil's Hopyard Campground offers 21 sites in a wooded setting. Camping is available from mid-April through September 30. Facilities include grills, picnic shelters, picnic tables, composting toilets.There are no parking fees, but there is a nightly camping fee.

Gillette Castle State Park and Mansion

67 River Road, off Route 82 East Haddam, CT 06423 Phone: 860-526-2336

One of the most remarkable parks in the state, Gillette Castle State Park features a mansion built in 1919 for actor William Gillette, who was famous for his role as Sherlock Holmes. Tours are given on days that the mansion is open (call for exact times). The park itself is set on the Connecticut River and features fishing areas, short hiking trails and picnic spots. The Castle is open from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day. Staff are available to assist with questions about the castle interior and its history. The grounds are open year round.

Haddam Meadows State Park

Route 154 Haddam, CT Phone: 860-566-2304

A meadowland park along the banks of the Connecticut River. Visitors will find areas for fishing, boating, cross-country skiing, sports fields and toilet facilities.

Hurd Park

Route 151 East Hampton, CT Phone: 860-526-2336

An 884 acre park on the east bank of the Connecticut River. Canoeing, including facilities for canoe camping, fishing, hiking and cross-country ski trails, and picnic areas are available.

Wharton Brook State Park

Route 5 Wallingford, CT Phone: 203-269-5308

This 96 acre park offers visitors a wooded environment for swimming, hiking, fishing, winter ice skating and more. A food concession and full toilet facilities are also found on the site. The is an entrance fee.