Description
Newtown Reservoir is a 21-acre impoundment of Buckman Brook located off of South Royalston Road in Athol. Newtown Reservoir has an average depth of 13 feet, a maximum depth of 30 feet and its shores are completely forested falling entirely within town owned conservation land. Aquatic vegetation is limited to the coves at the southern end and northern corners of the reservoir by the dam; the waters are typically transparent to roughly 10 feet.
Recreational access
The town of Athol manages a trail head and small parking lot suitable for 6 cars off of South Royalston Road (get directions). The trail leading to the reservoir is roughly 450 yards in length and completely downhill on the way in. The entire shore is open to fishing with lots of established casting spots and cartop boats can also be brought in and launched albeit after a long carry. Please contact the offices of the town of Athol for additional information and/or other restrictions pertaining to public access of Newtown Reservoir.
Look for this small parking area off of South Royalston Road.
The reservoir is roughly 450 yards down this trail.
If hardy enough to carry a boat in to the water, launch right where the trail terminates at the reservoir.
Shore fishing opportunities are excellent at Newtown reservoir including here by the dam.
Fish populations
The following fish species were found during MassWildlife surveys:
- largemouth bass
- chain pickerel
- yellow perch
- pumpkinseed
- bluegill
Fishing
Newtown Reservoir is a beautiful spot to spend an afternoon hiking and fishing. Its remote location provides a peaceful natural setting which is second to none. If you are hardy enough to carry a boat in you will likely be the only one on the water. Anglers can expect to catch largemouth bass and large yellow perch with lots of sunfish in the shallows; Ice fishing is also popular here. Newtown Reservoir has produced largemouth bass 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.