Hopkinton Reservoir, Hopkinton, MA |
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Hopkinton Reservoir
Hopkinton State Park
176 Acres |
General Information: Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the reservoir is located about a mile and a half north of Hopkinton Center. It is relatively deep with a maximum of 53-feet and an average depth of 22-feet. The tea-colored water is infertile and aquatic vegetation is scarce except around the inlet coves. Transparency is good at 11-feet and the bottom is well covered with boulder piles that provide excellent structure. There are also a few large islands that provide good cover for fish. The large dam is located along the entire eastern shoreline. The only inlet is located on the far southwestern corner.
Fish Populations: The reservoir receives an annual stocking of trout, primarily of rainbow but sometimes browns as well. In addition, brood salmon are stocked when available. Warm-water species include largemouth bass, yellow perch, white perch, bluegill and pumpkinseed.
Fishing: Trout are clearly the primary gamefish and fishing pressure is heavy in the spring after they are stocked. Boat traffic reduces considerably into the fall when the action is just as good. There is a strong potential for trout to be carried over from year to year, but due to high fishing pressure, the vast majority of stocked fish are taken within a month or two after their introduction. When available, the over-sized salmon that are stocked (some in excess of 10-pounds) offer the opportunity to catch some trophy-sized fish. Conversely, due to the infertility of the reservoir, the bass and panfish populations are small to average sized and offer little in the way of angling action.
Ice Fishing: The reservoir is well known for its ice fishing and is a popular destination in the winter.
Boat Ramp and Access: Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the ramp is located in the state park next to the Outdoor Recreation Center of Hopkinton boat rental shop. Space is available for 30 vehicles.
Ramp Type: B-FISHERMAN ACCESS. Small concrete ramp, concrete pad ramp system or gravel ramp designed for smaller boats and parking for boat trailers. (Information provided by the Office of Fishing & Boating Access. Boat class availability is subject to change. Interested boaters can confirm regulations and restrictions by contacting the town clerk or conservation commission.)
Setting: Rural (0% developed shoreline)
Restrictions: Gas powered engines are prohibited. Electric trolling motors are allowed.
Fees: There is a $5.00 parking fee to enter the park.
Directions: Take Route 9 to the Route 85 exit, following the signs to Hopkinton State Park. Take right off the ramp and go straght for one mile to a set of lights. Continue straight through the lights for a half-mile and take a left into the park. Once inside the park go straight for a half-mile, following the signs to the boat rental center. Take the first right and continue straight to the boat rental center on the right. The public boat launch will be to the left of the rental center.
Local Numbers: |
Hopkinton Police: |
(978) 497-3401 |
Hopkinton State Park: |
(978) 435-4303 |
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Hopkinton Fire: |
(978) 497-2323 or 2325 |
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