Description
Lake Saltonstall, also known as Plug Pond, ia a 45-acre natural great pond located a mile northeast of the center of Haverhill. Lake Saltonstall has an average depth of 15 feet, a maximum depth of 33 feet, and waters typically transparent to 9 feet. Aquatic vegetation is limited to the immediate shoreline and within coves. The western half of the lake is developed with residential houses while the eastern half falls within Plug Pond Conservation Area and Park and is undeveloped.
Recreational access
The city of Haverhill manages a paved boat ramp suitable for trailered craft and 50 car parking area in Plug Pond Recreation Area off of Sanders Rd. on the south shore (get directions). A second cartop access is located at the corner of Mill St. and Lakeland Street in a small park on the northwest corner of the lake; parking is roadside (get directions). Electric motors only are allowed on Lake Saltonstall. Shore fishing is available at both launches but is most extensive at the Sanders Rd. launch where trails within the Plug Pond Recreation Area permit access to large portions of the southern and eastern shores. Please contact the city of Haverhill for additional information, fee schedules, and/or restrictions pertaining to public access of Lake Saltonstall.
Lake Saltonstall boat ramp in Plug Pond Recreation Area off of Sanders Rd.
Parking for the boat ramp in Plug Pond Recreation Area.
Fish populations
The following fish species were found during MassWildlife surveys:
- largemouth bass
- chain pickerel
- bluegill
- pumpkinseed
- brown bullhead
- golden shiner
- banded killifish
Lake Saltonstall is stocked each spring and fall with trout.
Fishing
Lake Saltonstall is a popular trout fishing destination in spring and fall due to abundant and easy access. Drop-offs along the eastern shore are within casting range and are a good bet to hold trout. Large bullhead have also been reported out of the lake but otherwise less is known regarding warmwater populations. Lake Saltonstall has produced largemouth bass, chain pickerel, bullhead, yellow perch, 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.