Description
Buckley-Dunton Reservoir is a 160-acre impoundment of Yokum Brook built for flood control by the Soil Conservation Service and is located approximately 6 miles northwest of Becket center. Buckley Dunton Reservoir has an average depth of is 6 feet, a maximum depth of 10 feet and the water is fertile with a transparency of only 3 to 4 feet. Aquatic vegetation is moderate and mostly concentrated in the shallow northern and southern coves and along the shoreline. The bottom is composed of mud and littered with stumps and dead falls resultant from the initial flooding of the basin. The entire shoreline falls within October Mountain State Forest and is completely forested and accessible to shore fishing.
Recreational access
The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) manages a gravel landing area suitable for cartop boats at the end of Buckley Dunton Road near the dam (get directions). Parking for around 10 cars is provided adjacent to the access point. Please contact the DCR offices of October Mountain State Forest for additional information and/or restrictions to public access of Buckley Dunton Reservoir.
Park here along the shoulders of the road.
Fish populations
The following fish species were found during MassWildlife surveys:
- largemouth bass
- chain pickerel
- yellow perch
- pumpkinseed
- brown bullhead
- golden shiner
Fishing
Chain pickerel are probably the premier gamefish here, being both common and of large average size. Largemouth bass are less numerous but some larger fish have been reported. The abundance of submerged stumps and logs make for great habitat but can complicate fishing. Be sure to bring snag proof tackle such as weedless lures or surface plugs and poppers. Situated within October Mountain State Forest, the wooded and undeveloped shores of Buckley Dunton Reservoir make for a scenic and quiet fishing, paddling or hiking experience. Buckley Dunton Reservoir has produced largemouth bass, chain pickerel, brown bullhead and yellow perch 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.