Description
West Lake is a 60-acre impoundment of Morely Brook located off of West Street in Sandisfield. West Lake has an average depth of 8 feet, a maximum depth of 13 feet, and the waters are typically transparent to 5 feet. Aquatic plants are diverse and common around the entire shoreline, becoming dense at the shallow northern end of the lake near the inlet. The entire shoreline lies within Sandisfield State Forest and is undeveloped.
Recreational access
The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) manages a gravel launch suitable for trailered craft off of West Street. on the southern shore of the lake (get directions). Plenty of parking is available near the ramp and the entire shoreline is accessible via hiking trails in Sandisfield State Forest. Please contact DCR offices of Sandisfield State Forest for additional information, fee structure, and/or additional restrictions pertaining to West Lake.
The gravel boat ramp on West Lake off of West Street in Sandisfield.
Some of the shore fishing spots on West Lake near the boat launch.
Fish populations
The following fish species were found during MassWildlife surveys:
- largemouth bass
- yellow perch
- bluegill
- pumpkinseed
- black crappie
- rock bass
- golden shiner
Fishing
West Lake offers a scenic and quiet setting to spend an afternoon fishing, paddling, or hiking. Except for the dam area, the shoreline is completely undisturbed. Anglers report good catches of largemouth bass and brown bullhead, both of which are of average to above average in size for the region. West Lake has produced largemouth bass that meet minimum size requirements for recognition by the Massachusetts 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.