🏆🏆🏆🏆 Major River Corridor
Housatonic River Wildlife Management Area protects habitat along the Housatonic River — Connecticut’s second-longest river (149 miles). The Housatonic watershed drains the scenic Litchfield Hills and Berkshire Mountains, flowing through some of New England’s most picturesque landscapes. Bald eagles nest along the river and are increasingly common in winter. The lower Housatonic is one of the most important tidal marshes in the state.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Near Cornwall/Sharon, Litchfield County, CT |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Feature | Housatonic (CT’s 2nd longest, 149mi) |
| Wildlife | Bald eagle, migratory waterfowl |
About Housatonic River WMA
Housatonic River Wildlife Management Area protects riparian habitat along the Housatonic River in northwestern Connecticut — one of the state’s most scenic waterways. The river here flows through a mix of agricultural fields and floodplain forest, supporting bald eagles (which have returned to nest along the river) and diverse fish populations.
Housatonic River Wildlife Management Area protects riparian habitat along Connecticut’s most scenic river — the Housatonic flows from the Berkshires through the Litchfield Hills to Long Island Sound. The calcareous bedrock creates alkaline soils that support rare plant communities found nowhere else in Connecticut. In winter, bald eagles congregate below the Shepaug Dam — one of New England’s premier eagle-viewing sites.
Things to Do
Bald eagle watching (winter roosts are spectacular), fishing for trout and smallmouth bass, hunting (seasonal), canoeing the Housatonic, and birdwatching. The river valley is stunning during fall foliage season.
Birdwatching for bald eagles (winter viewing below Shepaug Dam), fly fishing for trout, canoeing the river, hunting (seasonal), wildflower viewing on the calcareous slopes, and exploring one of Connecticut’s most ecologically significant river corridors.
Insider Tips
River corridor: The Housatonic River WMA protects critical riparian habitat along one of Connecticut’s major rivers. Pro tip: Excellent trout fishing — the Housatonic is one of the best fly-fishing rivers in southern New England. Birding: The river corridor is a migration highway for warblers and raptors.
Best Time to Visit
Spring: Trout fishing season opens and bird migration. Fall: Spectacular foliage along the Housatonic. Summer: Kayaking and fishing. Winter: Eagle watching along open water.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Housatonic River good for fly fishing?
Yes. The Housatonic River is considered one of the best trout streams in southern New England. The river supports wild and stocked brown trout and rainbow trout. The stretch through northwestern Connecticut offers excellent fly-fishing with catch-and-release sections.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Housatonic Meadows State Park (a short drive away) or Skiff Mountain Coop Wildlife Management Area (a short drive away).
