Description
Baldpate pond is an 80-acre great pond located about two miles south of Route 133 on Baldpate Road in Boxford. Baldpate Pond has an average depth of 16 feet, a maximum depth of 47 feet and water transparency is good, extending to 11 feet. The bottom is mostly gravel, with accumulations of muck in the coves. Aquatic vegetation is common in the eastern portions of the pond which are more shallow. The northern shore lies within Baldpate Pond State Park and is undeveloped.
Recreational access
The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) manages an unimproved cartop launch off of Baldpate Rd. on the western shore (get directions). There is a 10hp limit on outboard motors. Parking is limited to just a few cars roadside on Baldpate Rd. Additional spots can be found at a DCR trailhead a little farther north on Baldpate Rd. Shore fishing is possible along the northern shore from DCR tails in Baldpate Pond State Park. Please contact DCR offices of Georgetown-Rowley State Forest for additional information and/or restrictions pertaining to public access of Baldpate Pond.
The unimproved launch at Baldpate Pond on the western shore.
Parking along Baldpate Road near the boat launch.
Fish populations
The following species were found during MassWildlife surveys:
- largemouth bass
- chain pickerel
- yellow perch
- black crappie
- bluegill
- pumpkinseed
- yellow bullhead
- golden shiner
- American eel
Baldpate Pond is stocked each spring and fall with trout.
Fishing
Baldpate Pond is an excellent trout fishing destination, particularly for shore anglers as DCR trails give good access to deeper waters. Largemouth bass and chain pickerel will also be abundant in and around aquatic vegetation in the eastern portions of the pond. Baldpate Pond has produced largemouth bass, chain pickerel, black crappie, bullhead, sunfish, tiger trout and brook trout that meet minimum sizes for recognition by the Freshwater Sportfishing Awards Program.
More fishing resources:
Stop aquatic hitchhikers
Prevent the transport of nuisance species; clean all recreational equipment. Visit ProtectYourWaters.net to learn more.