Heading north on Route 3, Second Connecticut Lake is on the right just past Moose Alley, and a 15-mile-drive from Pittsburg Village. The second largest of the four Connecticut Lakes spans 1,102 acres and is, at its deepest, 63 feet.
Boaters, anglers, and picnickers all make use of this beautiful glacial lake. It is less frequented than First Lake and Lake Francis, and for that reason, it has special appeal for some. Photographers who come to Second Lake just before sunrise and at sunset are sure to capture an array of dramatic panoramas. If you’re lucky, you’ll see and hear pairs of nesting loons.
There are two easy ways to access the lake. You can pull off Route 3 at the Second Connecticut Lake Dam. You’ll find parking and paths down to the Connecticut River on the south side of the dam. The lake is north of the dam. If you look to your left, while standing at the dam, you’ll see a solitary picnic bench on a promontory that overlooks the north edge of the lake. It’s private and beautiful, and a perfect spot for watching birds. Herons have established a rookery on a small island in the lake. Watch for moose, deer, and fox, as well.
The second easy access is at Idlewilde Road, your first right turn just north of the dam off Route 3. Bear right and you’ll come to a large clearing where you can park your boat trailer and launch your boat from a concrete ramp. You’ll find picnic tables and a magnificent view. This part of the lake is frequented by birds, including loons that swim in close proximity to the shoreline. To the right of the clearing, look for a wooded path that runs along the shoreline, offering more beautiful views and quiet seclusion.
Vital Statistics
Surface elevation 1,800 feet
Area 1.722 square miles
Inflow Connecticut River
Outflow 2nd Lake Dam/Connecticut River
Location Fifteen miles from the village of Pittsburg on Route 3
Average depth 20 feet
Maximum depth 63 feet
Fishing
Anglers fish for lake trout, brook trout and landlocked salmon in warmer months and for cusk, brook trout and lake trout in winter. It’s best to fish by boat or kayak, though some wade fishing is possible by the boat ramp.
Ice Fishing:
Ice fishing season runs from January 1 through March 31. Salmon may not be taken through the ice. Only two trap lines are permitted per angler. Daily bag limit for lake trout is 2 fish and the minimum length is 18 inches. There is no length minimum or daily limit for cusk.
Amenities
Besides the boat ramp, picnic tables, barbecues, views and trailer parking, you’ll find a snazzy bathroom one person said was “the best-ever outdoor bathroom ever experienced.”
