Description
Chapin (Haviland) Pond is a 28-acre great pond located off of Center Street (Rt. 21) in Ludlow. The average depth of Haviland Pond is 13 feet with a maximum of 33 feet and the water is typically transparent to 15 feet. The shore is almost completely developed with houses and aquatic vegetation is common to abundant along the shoreline.
Recreational access
The town of Ludlow manages a small concrete boat ramp ramp suitable for trailered craft off of Rt. 21 on the southwestern shore (get directions). parking for 3 trailers and 6 cars is available at the ramp; electric motors only. Shore fishing is permitted at the town beach which is adjacent to the ramp until it opens for the season around Memorial Day. Please contact the offices of the town of Ludlow for additional information, fee structure, and/or restrictions pertaining to public access of Chapin Pond.
Fish populations
The following fish species were found during MassWildlife surveys:
- largemouth bass
- chain pickerel
- yellow perch
- white perch
- black crappie
- pumpkinseed
- bluegill
- brown bullhead
- yellow bullhead
- banded killifish
Chapin Pond is stocked each spring and fall with trout.
Fishing
Chapin pond is a popular spot to fish for trout in spring and fall. Seasonal limitations in shoreline access favors fishing from a cartop boat after Memorial Day if possible. These anglers will also be able to access deeper water which will hold trout later into the season. Yellow perch and largemouth bass can also be caught throughout the year but while abundant, tend not to reach larger sizes. Chapin Pond has produced brown trout, rainbow trout, tiger trout, sunfish, and black crappie that meet minimum sizes for recognition by the Freshwater Sportfishing Awards Programs.
More fishing resources:
Stop aquatic hitchhikers
Prevent the transport of nuisance species; clean all recreational equipment. Visit ProtectYourWaters.net to learn more.