Pennsylvania, with its diverse landscapes and abundant waterways, is a paradise for anglers. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a weekend hobbyist, the Keystone State offers a plethora of fishing spots that promise an unforgettable experience. In this ultimate guide, we’ll explore the best fishing spots in Pennsylvania for 2024, covering everything from serene lakes to bustling rivers, and providing valuable insights to help you make the most of your fishing adventures.
1. Lake Erie
Location: Northwestern Pennsylvania
Best For: Walleye, Perch, Steelhead
Fishing Season: Year-round
Lake Erie, one of the Great Lakes, is a premier fishing destination in Pennsylvania. Known for its abundant walleye population, it attracts anglers from across the nation. The lake’s shallow waters make it ideal for fishing both from the shore and from boats. Additionally, the tributaries feeding into Lake Erie are renowned for steelhead fishing, especially during the fall and winter months.
Tips:
- Use crankbaits and spinnerbaits for walleye.
- Early morning and late evening are the best times for perch fishing.
- Check local regulations for steelhead fishing seasons and limits.
2. Susquehanna River
Location: Central Pennsylvania
Best For: Smallmouth Bass, Catfish, Walleye
Fishing Season: Spring to Fall
The Susquehanna River, one of the longest rivers on the East Coast, offers excellent fishing opportunities. Its diverse habitats support a variety of fish species, with smallmouth bass being the most sought after. The river’s fast-flowing waters and rocky structures provide the perfect environment for these feisty fighters.
Tips:
- Use soft plastic baits and jigs for smallmouth bass.
- Night fishing with live bait is effective for catfish.
- Focus on deep pools and eddies for walleye.
3. Raystown Lake
Location: Huntingdon County
Best For: Striped Bass, Largemouth Bass, Trout
Fishing Season: Year-round
Raystown Lake, the largest lake entirely within Pennsylvania, is a hotspot for striped bass fishing. This man-made reservoir offers deep, clear waters that are perfect for both boat and shore fishing. The lake is also home to a healthy population of largemouth bass and trout, making it a versatile fishing destination.
Tips:
- Trolling with live bait is effective for striped bass.
- Use topwater lures for largemouth bass during early morning hours.
- Fish near the dam for the best trout action.
4. Pymatuning Reservoir
Location: Crawford County
Best For: Walleye, Crappie, Bluegill
Fishing Season: Year-round
Pymatuning Reservoir, straddling the Pennsylvania-Ohio border, is a favorite among anglers for its walleye and crappie fishing. The reservoir’s vast expanse and numerous coves provide ample opportunities for both boat and shore fishing. Bluegill and other panfish are also abundant, making it a great spot for family fishing trips.
Tips:
- Drift fishing with nightcrawlers is effective for walleye.
- Use small jigs and minnows for crappie.
- Focus on weed beds and submerged structures for bluegill.
5. Lake Wallenpaupack
Location: Pike and Wayne Counties
Best For: Smallmouth Bass, Largemouth Bass, Walleye
Fishing Season: Spring to Fall
Lake Wallenpaupack, one of Pennsylvania’s largest lakes, is a popular destination for bass fishing. The lake’s clear waters and varied structure provide excellent habitats for both smallmouth and largemouth bass. Walleye fishing is also productive, especially during the cooler months.
Tips:
- Use crankbaits and spinnerbaits for smallmouth bass.
- Fish near docks and submerged structures for largemouth bass.
- Night fishing with live bait is effective for walleye.
6. Yellow Breeches Creek
Location: Cumberland County
Best For: Trout
Fishing Season: Spring to Fall
Yellow Breeches Creek is a renowned trout stream in Pennsylvania, offering both stocked and wild trout fishing opportunities. The creek’s clear, cold waters provide an ideal habitat for trout, making it a favorite among fly anglers. The “Catch-and-Release” section near Boiling Springs is particularly popular.
Tips:
- Use dry flies and nymphs for fly fishing.
- Focus on riffles and pools for the best trout action.
- Check local regulations for specific fishing restrictions.
7. Delaware River
Location: Eastern Pennsylvania
Best For: Shad, Smallmouth Bass, Walleye
Fishing Season: Spring to Fall
The Delaware River, forming the border between Pennsylvania and New Jersey, offers diverse fishing opportunities. The river is famous for its spring shad run, attracting anglers eager to catch these hard-fighting fish. Smallmouth bass and walleye are also abundant, providing year-round fishing excitement.
Tips:
- Use shad darts and spoons for shad fishing.
- Fish near rocky structures and eddies for smallmouth bass.
- Focus on deep pools for walleye, especially during the cooler months.
8. Penns Creek
Location: Central Pennsylvania
Best For: Trout
Fishing Season: Spring to Fall
Penns Creek is one of Pennsylvania’s premier wild trout streams, offering challenging and rewarding fishing experiences. The creek’s limestone waters support a healthy population of wild brown trout, making it a favorite among fly anglers. The “Catch-and-Release” section near Coburn is particularly renowned.
Tips:
- Use mayfly and caddisfly imitations for fly fishing.
- Focus on riffles and deep pools for the best trout action.
- Check local regulations for specific fishing restrictions.
9. Juniata River
Location: Central Pennsylvania
Best For: Smallmouth Bass, Catfish
Fishing Season: Spring to Fall
The Juniata River, a major tributary of the Susquehanna River, offers excellent smallmouth bass fishing. Its clear waters and rocky structures provide the perfect habitat for these aggressive fish. The river is also known for its catfish population, making it a versatile fishing destination.
Tips:
- Use soft plastic baits and jigs for smallmouth bass.
- Night fishing with live bait is effective for catfish.
- Focus on deep pools and eddies for the best action.
10. Allegheny River
Location: Western Pennsylvania
Best For: Smallmouth Bass, Walleye, Catfish
Fishing Season: Spring to Fall
The Allegheny River, flowing through the scenic landscapes of western Pennsylvania, offers diverse fishing opportunities. Smallmouth bass are the primary target, with the river’s rocky structures providing ideal habitats. Walleye and catfish are also abundant, making it a popular destination for anglers.
Tips:
- Use crankbaits and spinnerbaits for smallmouth bass.
- Fish near deep pools and eddies for walleye.
- Night fishing with live bait is effective for catfish.
Conclusion
Pennsylvania’s diverse waterways offer some of the best fishing experiences in the country. From the vast expanse of Lake Erie to the serene flows of Penns Creek, there’s a fishing spot for every angler. Whether you’re targeting trophy-sized walleye or enjoying a peaceful day fly fishing for trout, the Keystone State has it all. So grab your gear, get your fishing license, and explore the best fishing spots in Pennsylvania in 2024!
