🐟 Branford River Fishing Report Today 🎣

2 weeks ago · Updated 2 weeks ago

The Branford River in Connecticut offers anglers a mix of tidal river and estuarine fishing opportunities, with access to both saltwater and freshwater species throughout the year. As autumn approaches, local fishing activity shifts with changing water temperatures and seasonal migrations.

Content

Weekly Catches
Weather & Marine Conditions
Tides & Solunar Activity
Fishing Conditions & Tips
Regulations & Notices
Fishing Dashboard 🎣
Fishing Spots Map

Weekly Catches

No verified catches in the last 7 or 15 days; the catches below cover the last 21 days.

Striped Bass

Recent reports indicate that striped bass activity has been steady in the Branford River and adjacent estuaries, with anglers finding success particularly during early morning and evening tides. The average size of striped bass this season is reportedly up, though overall numbers are slightly down compared to previous years. Fish have been caught using a variety of offerings, with live bunker and soft plastics producing strikes near river mouths and along deeper channels.

Anglers have landed striped bass up to 44 inches in length in the past three weeks.
Effective baits include live bunker, soft plastics, and topwater plugs during low-light periods.
Hotspots include the lower river near the mouth and adjacent harbor areas where baitfish are present.

Blackfish (Tautog)

Early fall brings the start of blackfish (tautog) season, and a few dedicated anglers have managed to scratch out catches despite variable weather. The bite has been best around shallow water structure such as rocky outcrops and pilings, especially when the sun has warmed the water. A notable catch in the region included a 23-inch tautog weighing approximately 12 pounds, taken on an artificial lure.

Most productive areas are rocky structures and bridge abutments within the tidal river.
Best results have come on green crabs and jigs fished close to structure.

Weakfish

There have been isolated reports of weakfish caught in the lower river and nearby estuarine waters. These catches are less frequent but notable for their size and the challenge they present. Anglers targeting weakfish have found success using soft plastics and small jigs during moving tides.

Recent catches include weakfish up to 24 inches.
Effective lures are soft plastics in natural baitfish colors.

Trout

While the Branford River itself is not a primary trout stream, the broader region has seen significant trout stocking activity in nearby rivers and streams. Over 60,000 trout (brook, brown, rainbow, tiger) have been stocked across Connecticut, and anglers have reported good action in tributaries and upper reaches connected to the Branford watershed.

Best action has been on spinners, small spoons, and live worms in stocked sections.

Weather & Marine Conditions

Recent weather has been variable, with periods of rain and fluctuating temperatures impacting angling effort. The marine forecast for the Long Island Sound near the Branford River calls for northeast winds of 15–25 knots and seas building to 6–9 feet midweek, occasionally reaching 11 feet. These conditions may limit small craft access and affect inshore fishing, especially during periods of high wind and rough seas. Calmer conditions are expected to return toward the end of the week, improving opportunities for both shore and boat anglers.

Tides & Solunar Activity

Fishing success in the Branford River has been closely tied to tidal movement, with the best action occurring during incoming and outgoing tides. Early morning and dusk periods have produced the most consistent bites, especially for striped bass and weakfish. Anglers are advised to consult local tide charts to plan outings around peak tidal flows for optimal results.

Fishing Conditions & Tips

With water temperatures cooling and baitfish moving through the system, anglers should focus on areas where bait concentrations are highest, such as river mouths, channel edges, and structure. Downsizing lures and fishing during low-light periods can increase success rates for striped bass and weakfish. For blackfish, targeting rocky areas with green crabs or jigs remains the most productive approach. Persistence and flexibility in lure selection are key as fish adjust to changing seasonal patterns.

Regulations & Notices

Anglers are reminded to review current Connecticut fishing regulations before heading out, as seasonal closures and size limits may apply to certain species such as striped bass and blackfish. All anglers must possess a valid Connecticut fishing license, and special regulations may be in effect for tidal rivers and estuaries. Conservation efforts continue to be a focus in the region, with ongoing advocacy for sustainable fisheries and habitat protection.