Hunnewell Lake

Largemouth bass fishing is expected to be fair in 2026. Results from the 2025 spring electrofishing survey indicated a 60 percent increase in the overall catch rate compared to 2023. Anglers can anticipate that over 50 percent of their catches will be 8 inches or larger, while only 4 percent will be over 15 inches. Anglers are strongly encouraged to harvest bass up to their daily limit of six bass that are less than 12 inches long to help improve the size structure of the population. Bass measuring 12 to 15 inches are under a protected slot to promote the harvest of smaller bass and address the overpopulation issue. Bluegill catch rates have decreased by 30 percent compared to 2023. Fishing conditions will be similar to previous years, with 36 percent of bluegills captured measuring greater than 6 inches; however, only 3 percent will exceed 8 inches. Redear sunfish catch rates have increased by 15 percent compared to 2023. Anglers can expect to capture redear sunfish primarily measuring 7 inches or less. Black crappie capture rates for 8-to-10-inch fish increased in 2025. Many anglers noted that the quality was better than in previous years. Catfish angling (both channel and blue catfish) is projected to remain good. In 2025, blue catfish exceeding 40 pounds were caught in the lake by rod-and-reel with a balloon rig.

Hunnewell Lake serves as the water supply for Hunnewell Hatchery. Several regulations are in place to minimize the risk of accidentally introducing invasive species, such as zebra mussels. To protect Hunnewell Hatchery, private boats and any bait transported or held in containers with water are prohibited. Boats and oars are available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis. Anglers are permitted to use electric trolling motors on MDC boats. Additionally, anglers must provide their own Coast Guard-approved personal flotation devices (life jackets).