Description
York Lake is a 30-acre impoundment of Sandy Brook located about two tenths of a mile east of Route 183 in New Marlborough. York Lake has an average depth of 6 feet, a maximum depth of 14 feet and the waters are typically transparent to about 4 feet. The bottom is composed primarily of muck and aquatic vegetation is abundant to a depth of about 6 feet around the entire shore. The pond lies entirely within Sandisfield State Forest and except for a public beach and picnic area, its shores are completely forested.
Recreational access
The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) manages a gravel ramp suitable for light trailered craft off of East Hill Road on the southern shore (get directions). No gas motors are permitted and parking for over 20 vehicles is provided at an associated gravel lot. The entire shoreline is open to shore fishing from trails in the state forest. Please contact the DCR offices of Sandisfield State Forest for additional information and/or restrictions pertaining to public access of York Lake.
The gravel boat ramp at York Lake off of East Hill Road.
Gravel parking area for the boat ramp at York Lake.
Some of the shoreline open to fishing at York Lake.
Fish populations
The following fish species were found during MassWildlife surveys:
- largemouth bass
- black crappie
- yellow perch
- bluegill
- pumpkinseed
- brown bullhead
- golden shiner
York Lake is stocked each spring with trout.
Fishing
York Lake is a popular destination for early season trout fishing because of its accessibility and the natural beauty of the area. Few, if any, trout hold over, but early summer anglers may still find trout in the deeper water off the dam. The largemouth bass are also abundant with an occasional 5lb fish. York Lake has produced largemouth bass and black crappie 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.