One of the best known lakes in New Hampshire, Sunapee Lake has earned a just reputation for exceptional Lake Trout and Landlocked Salmon fishing. Fishing here is good in both summer and winter. Once Golden Trout flourished here, but today are extinct. Now there is a good poulation of Smallmouth Bass. Sunapee Lake is also one of the few lakes in New Hampshire with a good population of Burbot(aka Cusk). It holds the NH state record for the largest Cusk ever caught which was a total size of 11 pounds 2.2 ounces and 34.25 inches which was caught back in 1984. Cusk fishing devices are allowed here now due to the 2008 rule change. A true deep cold water lake, the water at Sunapee Lake is clear and there is little aquatic vegetation. Sunapee Lake is a popular vacation spot in the summer and the shoreline is extensively developed. There can be some very heavy boat traffic during summer months. There are commercial and municipal launch sites and an access site at the state park. The ramp at Herrick Cove on the north end of the lake is very small. The one at Sunapee State Park is very good. Average ice-out is in mid April.