Q&AWater quality · Massachusetts
Algae on Quabbin Reservoir: 6 questions answered
The questions we hear most about Quabbin Reservoir right now, answered with this week's numbers.
The latest clear view of Quabbin Reservoir, last week, shows the color of an algae bloom on the water. Here is what that means for a trip, question by question.
How cold is Quabbin Reservoir right now?
About 56°F at the surface on the latest clear reading (a few days ago). Shallow coves can run a few degrees off that on sunny afternoons.
Is it safe to swim in Quabbin Reservoir?
We can't call any lake safe. The latest clear view showed signs of a bloom. Stay out of water that looks green, scummy or like spilled paint, keep dogs out of it, and check your state's lake advisory page before a swim day.
What does a bloom look like?
Pea-soup green water, a film or scum on the surface, or streaks like spilled paint, often piled up along the downwind shore. Clear water nearby can look very different, because blooms drift with the wind.
What's biting on Quabbin Reservoir?
On Quabbin Reservoir, lake trout are a fair bet. Cool surface water brings lake trout up toward shore points. Smallmouth bass here are catchable with patience. Smallmouth handle cool water well; the 50s often bring some of the biggest fish of the year onto rocky points.
When is the best time to fish Quabbin Reservoir this week?
Thursday rates good for the bite, best 2:45 pm to 3:30 pm. Dawn and dusk are the most reliable hours any day.
How deep is Quabbin Reservoir?
Around 150 ft at its deepest; it covers about 24,700 acres with roughly 181 miles of shoreline at full pool.
Quabbin Reservoir every morning
Water temperature, level, wind and bite times on your phone.
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