Fisheries & Sustainable Angling

At a Glance

Fishery Type

Cold-Water

Deep, oxygen-rich water supports trout and salmon

Max Depth

94 Feet

One of NH's deepest lakes — ideal cold-water habitat

Stocked Annually

By NH Fish & Game

Landlocked Salmon and Brook Trout stocked each year

Cold-Water Fishery

Pleasant Lake is classified as a cold-water fishery, supporting species that require deep, oxygen-rich water.

Stocking Program

Landlocked Salmon and Brook Trout are stocked annually by NH Fish & Game, sustaining a healthy sport fishery.

Smelt Population

We monitor the smelt population closely, as they are the primary food source for our salmon and trout. A healthy smelt population is key to the entire cold-water food chain.

Know What You're Catching

Fish species ID chart for Pleasant Lake — Common fish species identified in Pleasant Lake

Rules Every Angler Must Know

Lead-Free Tackle — Strictly Enforced

NH State Law bans the use and sale of lead sinkers and jigs weighing one ounce or less. Loons swallow lead sinkers mistaking them for grit — ingestion is fatal. Please switch to non-toxic tackle to save our loons.

Learn about lead-free fishing NH lead-free law details

Bait Restriction

Only smelt may be used as live bait in Pleasant Lake. No other live baitfish are permitted.

Fishing Licenses

A valid NH fishing license is required. Children under 16 may fish without a license.

Freshly caught fish from Pleasant Lake — A successful morning on the lake

Fishing Gear & Wildlife Safety

Acceptable hook types for fishing on Pleasant Lake

Waterfowl impacted by discarded fishing tackle — Discarded fishing hooks and line can seriously injure waterfowl.

Invasive Species: Rock Bass

Rock bass are an invasive species in Pleasant Lake. Unlike native species, rock bass should be removed from the lake when caught rather than released. For catch-and-release guidance on native species, refer to NH Fish & Game regulations. Learn more about Rock Bass.

Responsible Fishing Practices

Collect Your Line

Monofilament fishing line is a serious hazard to birds and wildlife. Always collect all line, leaders, and tackle from the water and shoreline.

Catch & Release Natives

Practice catch-and-release for native species including salmon, trout, bass, and perch to sustain healthy populations. See NH Fish & Game for size limits and seasonal regulations.

Resources

For current size limits, seasons, and special regulations, always check the NH Fish & Game website — regulations change and vary by species.