For some fishing is a full-time profession. For most, it's a relaxing way to unwind after a long week of work. Take a look at our picks for the best lakes and rivers to go fishing (as well as fly fishing) in PA.
Lake and Creek Fishing in PA State Park!
This state park is named after the Black Moshannon Creek and the 250-acre Black Moshannon Lake it feeds. The creek is cool freshwater and home to trout; trout anglers will enjoy catching fish in Six Mile Run and other tributary streams. The lake is home to many warm water species including Yellow Perch, Bluegill, Golden Shiner, and Creek Chubsucker making this a great place to go fishing in Pennsylvania. On the western shore of the lake, an ADA accessible fishing pier is available. A Delayed Harvest – Artificial Lures Only area is designated on 1.3 miles of Black Moshannon Creek.
Electric motor boats only are allowed on the lake and must display proper registration and paperwork. For those interested in a longer term fishing trip, campgrounds are available in this park with flush toilets, warm showers, and electric hook-ups.
Fish Surrounded by Gorgeous Scenery!
Called "a trout angler's paradise" this convergence of Penn's Creek and Big Poe Creek is the perfect place to catch wild brook and brown trout. Penn's Creek was recognized among America's 100 best trout streams by Trout Unlimited. Nationally known for its Green Drake fly hatches in May and June, this is one of the best places to go PA fly fishing. Those who prefer lake fishing can travel to nearby Poe Valley State Park and fish in the scenic Poe Lake.
For a fishing getaway, camping is available for tents and trailers. Rustic toilets and drinking water amenities are available at the campgrounds.
Coldwater and Ice Fishing, Plus Year Round Camping!
Raccoon Creek State Park is the perfect place for fishing enthusiasts! With a 101 acre lake that is home to such species as yellow perch, crappie, sauger, large and smallmouth bass, bluegill, and sunfish, this park is sure to please. Ice fishing is allowed on the lake so you can enjoy your favorite past time year round. There is an ADA accessible fishing pier on Raccoon Lake.
Make it a fishing getaway and stay for a few nights at the park's camp grounds. Both rustic and modern campsites are available so whether you want to bring your trailer and have an electric hookup, or you'd rather rough it and use the "Sioux Rustic" campground, there is a place for you, no matter the season.
Freshwater Fishing on the Susquehanna River!
Nearly 450 miles long, this is the largest river on the east coast and has a huge variety of both warm and cold water fish. Anglers will enjoy the large amount of smallmouth bass available in these waters. Other common species that cane be found are walleye, catfish, smaller panfish, musky, northern pike, pickerel, American shad and more!
Unlimited horsepower motors are permitted on the river and a boat launch located within the state park allows access to the West Branch of the river. The 24 mile long Susquehanna River Trail is a popular place for canoe camping and fishing. See the many small islands and the diverse wildlife along the trail!
Varied Pennsylvania Fishing!
The Youghiogheny River is a wonderful place for wilderness trout fishing in PA. This cold water river is stocked annually with brown and rainbow trout - brown trout in the Youghiogeny have been know to grow to trophy size and several larger than 5lbs have been caught in recent years. Smallmouth bass are also common in the river.
Diverse waters, varying depths, and small streams make this an exciting place for anglers who love variety. This state park also offers whitewater rafting, hiking, rock climbing, and picnicking! Campgrounds are open April to December.