Hardwick Pond Fishing Spot

• County: Worcester - Hardwick MA
• Acreage: 99
• Public Fishing: Yes
• Mean Depth: 11'
• Max Depth: 20'
• Bathymetry Map: View Hardwick Pond Bathymetry Map
• Website: http://www.mass.gov/dfwele/dfw/habitat/maps/ponds/pdf/dfwhard.pdf
• Last Modified By: vinny60 on 08/19/09 12:57 PM
• Ask about Hardwick Pond in our Fishing Forums

Hardwick is a 99-acre two-story pond located entirely within the town of Hardwick. Depth averages 11 feet with a maximum of 20 feet. Limnologically, the pond is classed as mesotrophic, with a variety of aquatic plants common along much of the shore area, particularly at the shallower northern (inlet) end. Approximately 50% of the shoreline is developed with summer cottages and several year-round residences. Boats can be launched at the public ramp (paved) off Greenwich Road on the east shore adjacent to the outlet. Parking space is available for approximately 20 vehicles. The fish population was most recently studied in the summer of 1994. Twelve species were found, including rainbow trout, which had been stocked that spring. Gamefish present include largemouth bass and chain pickerel. Yellow perch, black crappie, brown bullhead, yellow bullhead, red breasted sunfish, bluegill, and pumpkinseeds compose the panfish fauna, while other fish present include white suckers and golden shiners.

Each spring Hardwick Pond is stocked with trout. Fishing pressure during the 90-day spring/early summer period of peak trout fishing interest is assumed to be light to moderate, although no intensive creel census has been conducted. After the peak interest in trout subsides, Hardwick Pond is capable of supporting hours of fishing for largemouth bass and chain pickerel. It is one of the better producing black crappie (“calico”) ponds in the area. A large assortment of sunfish species will entertain those interested in just catching fish for hours.