Description
Mystic Lake is 152-acres and the northern most of three ponds connected by small channels collectively know as the Indian Ponds or Cotuit Ponds. Mystic Lake has an average depth of 20 feet, a maximum depth of 47 feet, and transparent waters to roughly 15 feet. The pond bottom is primarily sand with scattered areas of gravel and rubble, aquatic vegetation is sparse, and the shoreline is mostly developed with seasonal and permanent residences. The ponds are fed by groundwater and cranberry bog drainage and serve as the headwaters of the Marstons Mills River.
Recreational access
The town of Barnstable manages an unimproved sand and gravel ramp suitable for cartop boats off of Race Lane on the northern shore (get directions). Parking near the launch is limited to 4 or 5 vehicles and the shore can be accessed here along Race lane from within the road right-of-way. Shore access is also permitted from the William and Hilma Danforth Recreation Area from a trailhead and parking area off of Race Lane (get directions). Boaters may also enter Mystic lake from Middle Pond via a narrow channel connecting the two waterbodies that may require a short portage depending on water levels. There is a 10 horsepower limit on motors enforced by the town. Please contact the Town of Barnstable or the Barnstable Land Trust for additional information, fee structure, and/or restrictions pertaining to public access of Mystic Lake.
Carry your boat down this sand path right off the parking area to the shoreline to launch.
The shoreline near the launch here is gently sloping and great wading and fishing.
Fish populations
The following fish species were found during MassWildlife surveys:
- largemouth bass
- smallmouth bass
- chain pickerel
- white perch
- yellow perch
- pumpkinseed
- brown bullhead
- white sucker
- banded killifish
- golden shiner
- sea-run alewife
Fishing
Mystic Lake has produced largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, chain pickerel, yellow perch, white perch, brown bullhead, and sunfish 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.