Turnpike Lake, Massachusetts: Fishing Spots and Seasons

• Overview

  Turnpike Lake falls in Norfolk County, part of Massachusetts. The bank gives way to open valley. At about 101 acres, a day is enough to walk the shoreline properly. On our Norfolk County list it sits near the top for size. The town to know is Plainville, 1.3 miles out. Beyond it, North Attleborough Center at 3 miles and Wrentham at 3.6 miles. Local rules may differ a few miles either side of here.

• Where to Fish on Turnpike Lake

  Depth here is unknown, so count the lead down before committing. The shallow end warms first and pulls fish in ahead of the rest. Look for the band where the shallows give up and the bottom falls away. Records held for Norfolk County cover bluegill, pumpkinseed, chain pickerel and yellow perch. County records show what lives in the area; the local agency holds the water-by-water list. Turnpike Lake gives up its fish to patience rather than distance.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Long-run averages give July about 71°F and January about 26°F. Most months fish reasonably, given the right weather. It is not guaranteed from one year to the next. November and March are the quiet, comfortable months to be out. Plan around that when you fish Turnpike Lake. After a storm, the water clears from the edges inwards.

• Tackle & Baits

  Nothing in our records says who may fish here. Parking sits half a mile out, which makes for a walk with tackle. The water borders Goddard Woods, so expect the reserve rules to apply. For the pike, wire up and throw larger lures along the weed edges. Ask in the nearest town if you are unsure. Where tickets apply, they are sold in the nearest town rather than on the bank. Witch Pond, 1.4 miles away, makes the obvious fallback. Treat Turnpike Lake as unsettled until someone local tells you otherwise.