BASHAN LAKE
Bashan Lake is a 273-acre natural lake in East Haddam near the Upper Moodus Reservoir. There are more 12-inch-plus largemouth bass here than in most other state waters. The population of larger smallmouths is about average, but there are higher numbers of smaller bronzebacks.

You'll find a state-owned access area and gravel boat ramp at the southern end of the lake.

After the Haddam-Colchester Turnpike, take Bashan Road for about one mile, and then turn onto Lakeshore Drive. Access is about a mile in on the right.

WONONSCOPOMUC LAKE
Wononscopomuc Lake is a 348-acre water in Salisbury. It is also known as Lakeville Lake. Fishing here is excellent for largemouth bass, which are plentiful in the 11- to 15-inch range. Night-fishing and ice-fishing are not allowed.

There's a town-owned boat launch on the northeastern shore. Amenities include parking for 20 vehicles and a concrete ramp that will accommodate most boats. Non-residents must pay a fee to fish.

From Route 44, take Route 41 south. Turn right onto Ethan Allen Street to reach the launch.

Special slot and creel limits are in effect on many of these waters. Before heading out, be sure to check the 2008 Connecticut Angler's Guide, available where licenses are sold, or online at www.dep.state.ct.us.

For more fishing information, call 1-860-424-3474. For travel information, call 1-888-288-4748 or visit www.ctvisit.com.

MAINE
According to Rick Jordan, a Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife regional fisheries biologist, the past 15 years have marked the most important period of managing bass in the Pine Tree State's history. Maine's biologists became proactive about protecting the state's bass fishery before problems could crop up.

Bass in Maine grow slowly. An average 12-inch bass will be about five years old in southern Maine, or six years old in northern Maine.

Because these bass grow slowly, live long and are highly prized by anglers, the department took steps to exert relatively restrictive general regulations.