CHIPMANS POND
| Chipmans Pond 52.4 acres Laurel The abundance of largemouth bass here has declined recently, but the size distribution of the fish has improved. The number of bass over 12 inches has increased and the biggest group is bass exceeding 15 inches. The average weights were good. Growth, however, was slightly below average with bass reaching the legal length of 12 inches during the fourth year. Bluegill numbers were moderate with good weights. Growth of bluegill was above average with 3-year old fish averaging over 6½ inches. Yellow perch and black crappie were present though in relatively low numbers. Creek chubsucker, brown bullhead and yellow bullhead were not uncommon. VEGETATION Because hydrilla has dominated the lower portion of the pond for a number of years, an aquatic herbicide was been applied frequently for control. By August 2006, when the pond was surveyed for vegetation, hydrilla was much less abundant. However, floating mats of filamentous algae were common. A non-native species, mosquito-fern or Azolla, was also present. This plant looks very much like duckweed but is composed of tiny sections and often has a reddish cast. It floats with the wind and often piles up on algal mats. FACILITIES Almost no shore angling access is available because the open shoreline is adjacent to County Road 465 (Chipmans Pond Road) and there is no shoulder available for safe angling. A relatively new boat ramp is present and parking should be adequate for a number of vehicles. |
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