Stillwater Pond State Park
Connecticut’s Quiet Trout Pond — 100-Acre Stocked Fishing Pond, Paved Boat Ramp, No-Gas-Motor Policy, Largemouth Bass & Chain Pickerel on the Naugatuck River in Torrington
Stillwater Pond State Park is a day-use fishing and boating park surrounding the 100-acre Stillwater Pond on the West Branch of the Naugatuck River in Torrington, Connecticut. The park features a paved boat ramp with paved parking, trout stocking, largemouth bass and chain pickerel fishing, a no-gasoline-motor policy for quiet waters, and free admission.
Stillwater Pond is one of Connecticut’s best-kept fishing secrets. The 100-acre pond sits quietly on the West Branch of the Naugatuck River, offering a tranquil, uncrowded alternative to the state’s larger, more visited fishing destinations. The no-gasoline-motor policy ensures a peaceful environment for anglers and paddlers — electric motors are permitted. The pond is stocked with trout and supports warm-water species including largemouth bass, chain pickerel, and brown bullhead. The paved boat ramp accommodates both trailered boats and car-top launches, making access effortless. With no parking fee and easy access from Route 272, Stillwater Pond is a perfect half-day fishing destination in northwestern Connecticut.
Things to Do
Fishing
- Trout: Stocked (spring and fall)
- Largemouth bass
- Chain pickerel
- Brown bullhead
- Shore fishing and boat fishing
- Connecticut fishing license required
Boating
- Paved boat ramp: For trailered and car-top boats
- ⚠️ Gasoline motors PROHIBITED: Electric motors only
- Canoe and kayak friendly
- 100 acres of calm water
Park Information
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Pond Size | 100 acres |
| Type | Day-use only (no camping) |
| Boat Ramp | Paved — trailered and car-top |
| Motor Policy | Gasoline motors PROHIBITED — electric only |
| Parking | Paved — FREE no fee |
| Restrooms | Limited — no formal restroom facilities |
| Camping | Not permitted |
| Access | Route 272, 1.4 miles north of Route 4 junction, Torrington |
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Highlights | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Apr–May) | ⭐ BEST: Trout stocking; spring bass; pond thawing; birding; uncrowded | Cool; variable weather; muddy access |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | Bass and pickerel active; warm water; paddling; long days; calm evenings | Weeds; algae possible; humid; mosquitoes |
| Fall (Sep–Nov) | Fall trout stocking; fall foliage; cool; uncrowded; photography | Shorter days; cooling; some services end |
| Winter (Dec–Mar) | Ice fishing possible (check conditions); winter solitude | Cold; check ice thickness; limited access |
Visitor Tips
- No gas motors: Gasoline-powered motors are prohibited on Stillwater Pond — bring electric trolling motors or paddles.
- Trout stocking: The pond is stocked with trout in spring and fall — time your visit accordingly.
- Free parking: No parking fee — one of the most accessible free fishing spots in northwest Connecticut.
- Quiet waters: The no-gas-motor policy creates one of Connecticut’s most peaceful fishing environments.
- Paved ramp: The paved boat ramp makes launching and retrieving boats effortless.
- Limited facilities: No formal restrooms — plan accordingly and bring everything you need.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use a motorboat on Stillwater Pond?
Gasoline-powered motors are prohibited on Stillwater Pond in Torrington, Connecticut. Electric motors are typically allowed, and the pond is ideal for canoes, kayaks, and other non-motorized boats. The park features a paved boat ramp for trailered and car-top launches. The 100-acre pond offers a quiet, tranquil fishing and paddling experience. Parking is free and the park has no entrance fee.
What fish are in Stillwater Pond Connecticut?
Stillwater Pond in Torrington, Connecticut, is stocked with trout (spring and fall) and supports resident populations of largemouth bass, chain pickerel, and brown bullhead. The 100-acre pond on the West Branch of the Naugatuck River is a quiet, uncrowded fishing destination with a no-gasoline-motor policy. A paved boat ramp and free parking are available. A Connecticut fishing license is required.
Last updated: May 2026
Park Location
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