Cast the Water

Manchaug Pond

Massachusetts · Worcester

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

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Overview

Manchaug Pond spreads across 375 acres of the Mumford River, straddling the Sutton-Douglas line. It averages 13 feet deep (37 max), with 6-plus feet of visibility. Islands and rock piles are scattered across it. Weeds are sparse except along the west shore, around the islands and in the coves. Late spring and summer bring heavy boat traffic.

Fishing

Early-spring bass and ice fishing are the local favorites, and both produce. Perch of both kinds commonly run 7-8 inches, and bluegill of 8 inches and up are plentiful. Pickerel are fewer, but now and then a big one comes through the ice. Award fish include largemouth and smallmouth bass; chain pickerel; panfish such as black crappie, sunfish and yellow perch; and bullhead.

Species

MassWildlife surveys found white and largemouth and smallmouth bass; chain pickerel; panfish such as black crappie, bluegill, pumpkinseed and yellow perch; brown bullhead; and golden shiner.

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

Sutton's big concrete ramp on Torrey Road (southeast end) handles trailers and parks about 50 vehicles. There's very little room to fish from shore.

Ice fishing

Ice fishing is popular, and large chain pickerel are occasionally taken through the ice (MassWildlife).

Water facts

375 acres; average depth 13 ft; max 37 ft; clarity 6+ ft; fall drawdown.

Safety & advisories

Leaving the ramp, the channel into the main lake is narrowed by two partly submerged stone walls. The dam in the southeast cove lowers the pond each fall, exposing rocks and other hazards. Watch for islands and rock piles. Clean, drain and dry gear between waters (MassWildlife).

Nearby waters

More in Worcester

MassWildlife (Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife)