Reports indicate some of the best places to start fishing for smallmouth bass are along the western bank, around the island and the boulders in the extreme northeast corner of the pond, and in the boulder field along the southeastern bank near a large very prominent point. There are some largemouth bass in the pond, but they generally receive little angler attention.

Big Alum Pond is within a large tourist area and it is surrounded by private homes. Spring is the best time to fish the pond because of its summer popularity. Access is limited to the state boat ramp on the southern end of the lake. From Sturbridge, take Route 20 west. Turn north on Route 148. Take the second right onto Clark Road. Watch for the launch ramp after you go under the Massachusetts Turnpike bridge.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

For more fishing and licensing information, contact the Department of Environmental Protection, Inland Fisheries Division, 79 Elm Street, Hartford, CT 06106; or call (860) 424-3475. For tourism information, write the Connecticut Tourism Division, 14 Rumford Street, West Hartford, CT 06107; or call (800) 282-6863.

Resident Rhode Island license fees are $9.50 for the season. Non-resident license fees are $31 for the season or $16 for a three-day permit.

For more fishing and licensing information, contact the Rhode Island Division of Fish and Wildlife, 4808 Tower Hill Road, Wakefield, RI 02879; or call (401) 222-3576.

For tourism information, write to the Rhode Island Tourism Division, 1 West Exchange Street, Providence, RI 02903; or call (800) 556-2484.

Resident Massachusetts license fees are $27.50 for the season. Also, residents between the ages of 15 and 17 need an $11.50 junior fishing permit, and residents between the ages of 65 and 69 can get a senior citizen fishing license for $16.25.

Non-resident license fees are $37.50 for the season or $23.50 for a three-day permit.

For more fishing and licensing information, contact the Massachusetts Division of Fish and Wildlife, 100 Cambridge Street, Boston, MA 02202; or call (617) 626-1590.

For tourism information, write to the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism, 10 Park Plaza, Suite 4510, Boston, MA 02116; or call (800) 227-MASS.