Richmond Pond

Overview

Richmond Pond straddles the Richmond-Pittsfield line on the southwest branch of the Housatonic River. It's a 223-acre great pond, raised by a dam, averaging 13 feet deep with a 54-foot hole. Visibility is very good, about 13 feet. Its silt-and-clay bottom grows thick weeds that extend from most of the shore out to 6-8 feet of water. Seasonal and year-round homes and two summer campgrounds fill the shoreline.

Fishing

A cold, oxygenated layer holds through summer, so trout carry over from year to year. In warm months, look for trout and other fish in the deeper water. Award fish include largemouth bass; chain pickerel; and panfish such as black crappie, sunfish and yellow perch.

Species

MassWildlife surveys found largemouth and rock bass; chain pickerel; panfish such as black crappie, bluegill, pumpkinseed and yellow perch; brown bullhead; and golden shiner. Trout are stocked every spring and fall.

Regulations

MassWildlife freshwater regulations apply: https://www.mass.gov/freshwater-fishing-regulations. Check local town or DCR rules for access fees and restrictions.

Licensing

A Massachusetts freshwater fishing license is required for anglers 15 and older.

Access

The Town of Richmond runs a concrete ramp off Town Beach Road (northwest shore) with a gravel lot for about 30 vehicles. You can fish from shore near the ramp and along Beech Road. Contact the town about rules.

Water facts

223 acres; average depth 13 ft; max 54 ft; clarity about 13 ft; fall/winter drawdown.

Safety & advisories

The pond is usually drawn down in fall and winter, so depths change. Navigate carefully then (MassWildlife).

Nearby waters

• Onota Lake · 7 km (MA)
• Queechy Lake · 7.4 km (NY)
• Stockbridge Bowl · 8.9 km (MA)
• Pontoosuc Lake · 10.9 km (MA)
• Laurel Lake · 11 km (MA)
• Black River · 14.9 km (NY)

More in Berkshire

• Kinderhook Creek (NY)
• Whiting River (CT)
• Otis Reservoir (MA)
• Goose Pond (MA)
• Lake Buel (MA)
• Laurel Lake (MA)