Cast the Water

Oldham Pond

Massachusetts · Plymouth

The pin marks the middle of the water, for directions. The shoreline on the map comes from USGS NHD.

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Overview

Oldham Pond (235 acres) lies across Pembroke and Hanson and is the headwaters of Herring Brook. True to that name, alewives run up from the North River to spawn here. Three wooded islands dot the pond, the largest called Monument Island. It averages 10 feet deep (17 ft max) over mud, with weeds throughout and rocky shoals hiding just under the surface. Its outflow drops into Furnace Pond to the south, and homes and a summer camp line the 2.8-mile shore.

Fishing

Each year's crop of young alewives feeds the pond's bass and pickerel, so follow the bait. Award-size chain pickerel, largemouth bass, white and panfish such as black crappie, sunfish and yellow perch; and bullhead have all come from Oldham.

Species

MassWildlife surveys list largemouth bass, chain pickerel, yellow and panfish such as black crappie, bluegill, pumpkinseed and white perch; brown bullhead; and banded killifish, golden shiner, sea-run alewife and white sucker.

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

Pembroke maintains a concrete ramp for trailered boats beside the town beach on Wampatuck Street. There are 20 car spaces next to the ramp and 10 trailer spaces in the dirt lot across the road. Jet skis are banned. Contact the town about fees.

Water facts

235 acres; average depth 10 ft; max 17 ft; 2.8 miles of shoreline; three islands.

Safety & advisories

Unmarked rocky shoals are scattered across the pond and can sit just below the surface depending on water level, so run motors slowly. Clean, drain and dry gear between waters (MassWildlife).

Nearby waters

More in Plymouth

MassWildlife (Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife)