Make the most of your vacation by saving time and money this year. No, it’s not too good to be true. Stay close to home this summer and enjoy the surroundings that you’ve never had time to explore before. Take in the awesome New Hampshire beaches, historic sites, and the White Mountains without spending a fortune on travel and hotel arrangements.
Whether you’re lounging back at the dock with a fishing pole or hiking through the elevated terrain of the Appalachian Trail, it sure beats sitting in the office all day. Thanks to your backyard being the destination this year, you’ll have no problem packing your schedule with fun activities instead of flight time. Staying close to home also gives you the benefit of being near family and friends without the typical obstacle of visiting them between work hours.
You can’t picture a better time than trading trophy fish stories with your loved ones while enjoying the incredible beauty of The Granite State. Of course, in order to maintain bragging rights, you’ll want to score a couple perfect fishing rods before your adventure. Angling supplies are one of the few expenditures that will be necessary for your staycation though. So, all that is left is to find a stunning fishing hole to get started.
Ellacoya State Park at Lake Winnipesaukee
A warm, sandy beach for sun bathing? Check. What about a large enough lake to canoe and kayak? Yup, got that too. And, most importantly, world-class fishing? Of course. Lake Winnipesaukee has something for everyone in your family. Set up for a day on the boat or pitch a blanket and enjoy some fishing from the shore. Either way, you’ll haul in a catch so big you’ll need more room in the truck. If there’s too much enjoyment for one day, make a reservation at one of their 37 campsites. Seasons passes are also available to help you make the most of New Hampshire’s top state park.
Coleman State Park
Located in Stewartstown, this destination on the Canadian and Vermont borders offers the relaxation of Little Diamond Pond. Prepare for a great day of trout fishing on the 60-acre lake. Rent a jon boat or take your own row boat off the boat launch to maximize your experience.
Hampton State Pier
You won’t even need a boat to snag the biggest catch at this fishing location. Cast off the beautiful pier and enjoy the sunset as you relax before landing your next big score.
Great Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve
With 48 miles of coastline, this preserve offers enough territory to keep you entertained for days. Saltmarshes, tidal creeks, and bay fishing offer variety. The 2,935 acres of land that comprise the reserve deliver spectacular natural views, wildlife, and history. Hit this awesome slice of paradise during the summer months for the best results.
Back Lake
Head to Coos County to find world-class brown, rainbow, and speckled trout. Pittsburg — the northernmost town in the state — delivers a quaint and quiet feel that will keep you close to the natural setting you’re looking for.
Saltmarsh Pond
Practice your spinning, baitcasting, or fly fishing skills on a variety of species at this Belknap County destination. As with many of New Hampshire’s top spots, trout are plentiful here.
Squam Lake
There is simply no more stunning place to fish in all of New Hampshire. Islands dot the water as the lake empties through a natural channel into Little Squam Lake. Spot bald eagles and great blue heron between pulling out some of the biggest fish in the state.
Rocky Bound Pond
The maximum depth of 31 feet means there is plenty of room to pluck pickerel, horned pout, and white perch from the water.
Wellington Beach State Park
The hiking trails, picnic reserves, and large freshwater swimming sections are all secondary compared to the amazing fishing at Bristol. Fish from the shore or take advantage of the boat ramp to cast from the middle of the lake. With 22 types of fish, there’s no chance of missing out on securing a big catch. And, with designated fishing areas, you can expect to enjoy the scenery without any hassle from swimmers.
I have never been to New Hampshire, but you have highlighted some beautiful reasons to visit!
NH (and VT) are two beautiful states to visit, especially during the fall season for Leaf peeping!
New Hampshire is a great state for fishing. There are some great locations all throughout New England actually 🙂
There really are. I grew up Fishing in VT and NH with my Dad, although admit I haven’t been in a while. I need to get my fishing license and go with the trio!
I am the girl who sits with a book beside the guy who stands with a fishing pole. I like it that way. I need to tell him about these great spots.
I’m not close enough to visit New Hampshire for a couple of hours–and I don’t really like to fish-but I’ll willingly do the rowing while others do the fishing! I have been to New Hampshire and it is really beautiful–a long weekend would be perfect. But then again-there are lots and lots of parks near me in NY!
Im not a big fisher but my husband is. He loves it!
I’m not much of a fisher, but the photos look amazing! I’d love to have a stay-cation here in Kansas City soon!
This is a great list of places to go fishing… I haven’t been on one in ages. Might be time to rethink that. 🙂
Great list of locations for some fishing! I can’t say that I have ever been fishing. Would love to one day!
Oh my, I haven’t been fishing in forever! Some great choices in your list!
My husband loves to go fishing!! I like to go with him to spend time with him and read a book or journal while he is fishing.
I haven’t gone fishing ever. But I understand the appeal. Your list has some lovely destinations.
Those all sound like great destinations. We love stay cations because it removes some of the travel stress. I hadn’t considered a fishing trip, but it sounds like fun.