Description
Shaw Pond is an 88-acre great pond that is located between Route 8 and Interstate 90 in Beckett and Otis. Shaw Pond has an average depth of 13 feet, a maximum depth of 19 feet, and the waters are typically transparency to 9 feet. The pond bottom is composed primarily of muck, with some gravel along the point on the western shore and areas of rubble and clay along the eastern shore. Aquatic vegetation is relatively abundant but highly variable throughout the pond. Development is light, with permanent residences largely restricted to the western shore, a summer camp to the south, and forest to the east.
Recreational access
The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) manages a paved boat ramp suitable for trailered craft off of Rt. 8 in the middle of the western shore (get directions). Parking is available at the ramp for 10 trailers and shore fishing is limited to areas adjacent to the ramp. Please contact DCR offices of Beartown State Forest for additional information and/or restrictions pertaining to public access of Shaw Pond.
The paved boat ramp at Shaw Pond in Beckett.
Parking at Shaw Pond associated with the boat ramp.
Some of the shore access at Shaw Pond near the ramp.
Fish populations
The following fish species were found during MassWildlife surveys:
- largemouth bass
- chain pickerel
- yellow perch
- black crappie
- bluegill
- pumpkinseed
- rock bass
- brown bullhead
- white sucker
- golden shiner
Fishing
With its lightly developed shores, Shaw Pond offers a pleasant location to spend an afternoon fishing. Anglers can expect to find abundant yellow perch in the 9 - 12 inch range and large sunfish. Bass fishing is also popular here but reports are more varied. Shaw Pond has produced largemouth bass, chain pickerel, yellow perch, 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.