Yeah, I agree with all that you said. Though there aren't too many double digits, there are plenty in the 5 pound range, so swim bait fishing is awesome there.
And that's actually pretty cool that you got to fish if before it was open to the public. I've heard about the draining - from what I heard fish were put into Quarter Mile, Dark Hallow, and some of the fells reservoirs. How long ago were they drained? It would have been cool to see the bottom of that pond, like the structure and fish in it.
I am not sure the last time it was drained. I do know the first time was very late 70's or early 80's. All natural features were removed, humps, structure, etc. It was filled with gravel and rocks. I have vivid memories what it looked like entirely empty. I fished there very few times before it was public. I did not like dealing with the Mounties.
I am surprised they put fish in Dark Hollow, seems like difficult truck access. The member here "Grizz" said they did and he knew people involved. I take him at his word. I am not sure if any were put in quarter mile, but seems logical that they would be. Quarter mile had a winter fish kill in 2011, before that the fishing was real good there. They definitely put some in the Fells reservoirs. Speaking of which, IMO is far better fishing than Spot. North used to be fairly safe, but since opening the trails to hikers etc, they have really cracked down. Forget about Middle and South, you will be busted for sure if you push your luck. John Rambo who patrols it takes his job VERY seriously. South res is a fish factory, loaded with huge smallies. I am convinced there are hidden cams there. Walk through and usually no probs. take a cast and they are on you like you crossed the DMZ.
Another location they put Spot fish is the pond off montvale ave, under the bridge that crosses the tracks. Tough access but you can get toppers in there. Some slobs in there!
As you know Spot has monsters in it. I remember about 10 years ago all around straw point you could see molten crawfish shells everywhere you looked. I dont see them there like I used to. At that time that cove was thick with fish, it was unreal. Obviously crayfish still there but not like it was then. No doubt huge crops of crayfish spring up in different areas all around Spot. Find those areas and its the Goldie Locks Zone. Spot can be tough but the rewards are there if you put in your time.
I used to get pike shiners at Arlington bait back when Dick was running the store. I would go to Spot an hour before dark. It never failed I would catch at least one five pounder. I never use live bait but back then it was a rush seeing a 7 inch shiner getting slammed on the surface.
When Spot was made a offline backup res and opened to the public, I went there at ice out and walked the banks. I saw some off the biggest bass I have ever seen just cruising the edges in zombie mode. Nothing short of snagging them would catch them. The legend of Spot is real. I just dont think that equals state record fish. Spot pond bass seem to behave by a different set of rules, they laugh at most presentations. Go laterally west to the fells reservoirs and its like shooting fish in a barrel. The water is just as clear as Spot, I never understood the behavior difference. They are there to be had, good luck to those who try. Just really catch a double digit, not a 6 plus called a 10.5.
Spot pond fun fact: The big island used to hold some public events, including wrestling matches. there is a plaque out there dedicated to a wrestler who was killed in a match. I have nothing left to say about Spot pond. lol