b'in the spotlightBlack PondC entrallylocatedinMiddlefield,BlackPond is a small pond that offers big opportunities for outdoorsmen and outdoorswomen!This waterbodyisanaturallakeintheQuinnipiac Drainage Basin. During the history of the lake, a concrete and earthen dam was built which raised the lake to its current level that now covers 76 acres. The state boat launch is located at 1690 East Main Street, Middlefield and has parking space for 10 cars. An important note about this lake is that the use of internal combustion engines are prohibited. Black Pond offers many year-round opportuni-ties for the boating, fishing, and hunting enthusiast. The lake is managed as both a Bass Management lake (special regulations for Bass) and as a Catfish Lake. Annually, Black Pond is stocked with about 8,000troutand700yearlingchannelcatfish. Portions of the lake are adjacent to the Black Pond Wildlife Area, which is an archery-only hunting area for deer and turkey during the regulated season. The lake is also open to waterfowl hunting and is a popular ice-fishing destination. along the shore of this small lake to help you if you The lake is home to many different species ofcapsize or break down. Remember to bring proper waterfowl and waterbirds. Canada geese, mallards,fitting life jackets for everyone onboard. While we and other waterfowl are regularly found here. Heronscertainly encourage everyone to wear a life jacket and other waterbirds are also spotted at Black Pondat all times, children under the age of thirteen and especially during migration. Mute swans may occuranyone on paddlecraft between October 1 and May on the pond during the nesting season, and possibly31 MUST be wearing one at all times. Boating is throughouttheyearwhenthepondisice-free.serious fun, plan to keep it that way! Swans are very protective of their nest and offspring.Usefullinks:DiscoverOutdoorwildlifephotoGeneral-Information/Fishing-Guide and https://por-These birds are much bigger and more powerfulcontest-https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/Wildlife/ tal.ct.gov/DEEP/Hunting/CT-Hunting-and-Trappingthan they appear. For the wellbeing of these birdsDiscover-Outdoor-CT and your safety please enjoy them from afar. OtherFor detailed information about the fishing and possible wildlife subjects include muskrats, beaver, ahunting season, be sure to consult the Fishing and variety of turtles, and northern water snakes. Hunting Guides- https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/Fishing/Be prepared! There may not be many people Bantam LakeB antam Lake is nestled between the townsTheMainLake ofMorrisandLitchfieldandboasts947sectionisperfect acresofwater,makingitConnecticutsfor boaters to take largest natural lake.Few lakes in Connecticutintheimpressive capture the states natural and rustic beauty whilesizeandbeauty providing a popular destination for boaters, fish- ofthewaterbody, ermen, summer homes, and even campgrounds.whileanumber The state boat launch located at 16 Palmer Rd.,ofcovesandriver Morris, on the corner of Rte. 209 and Palmerinletsoffergreat Road and can accommodate up to 20 trailers.places for paddlers Pleasenotethatboatersusingthestateboatto explore. for so many anglers.Whether you are fishing launch are prohibited from accessing the marinaNodiscussionofBantamLakewouldbefor perch, bass, or crappie, or if you are seeking docks without permission.complete without highlighting the unique fishing BantamLakehassomethingforeveryone.opportunities that make this lake a destinationBANTAM LAKE continued on page 17162021 Connecticut BOATERS GUIDE'