Description
Sampson Pond is a 302-acre, enlarged great pond located off of Rt. 58 in Carver. Sampson Pond has an average depth of 8 feet, a maximum depth of 16 feet, and the water is typically transparent to 12 feet. The bottom is composed of sand and gravel, and emergent vegetation covers about a tenth of the ponds surface area. There are approximately 3.4 miles of shoreline which is lightly developed with year-round homes and cranberry bogs. The pond is fed by cranberry bogs and Tillson Brook and drains into Sampsons Brook at the south end.
Recreational access
The Town of Carver manages an asphalt boat launch suitable for trailered craft off of Lakeview Street on the southern shore (get directions). Parking is roadside near the ramp and shore fishing is available from the ramp east along Lakeview Street. The Town of Carver also manages a beach farther east on Lakeview Street where cartop boats can be launched (get directions). Fishing, however, is not permitted in the beach's swimming area. Parking is permitted at both locations via sticker issued by the town. Boaters should be aware of the numerous boulders in shallow areas of the pond. Please contact the Town of Carver for additional information, fee structure, and/or restrictions pertaining to public access of Sampson Pond.
Asphalt boat ramp at Sampson Pond off of Lakeview Street.
Parking at Sampson Pond boat ramp.
Sampson Pond cartop boat and shore access at the town beach off of Lakeview Street.
Parking for Sampson Pond at the town beach.
Fish populations
The following fish species were found during MassWildlife surveys:
- largemouth bass
- smallmouth bass
- chain pickerel
- yellow perch
- white perch
- black crappie
- bluegill
- pumpkinseed
- brown bullhead
- golden shiner
- banded killifish
- American eel
Fishing
Sampson Pond has a reputation as a good bass producer and numerous large bass have been reported here, including state record holders. Large yellow perch are also caught regularly, some of which reach 10 inches or more. Sampson Pond has produced yellow perch, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, chain pickerel, black crappie, 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.