Fishing Youghiogheny River Lake

AKA: Yough Lake

Most Popular Fish
Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Marinas
Boat Launch Ramps
Local Fishing Guides
Youghiogheny River Lake Fishing Video
Fishing License
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Contact Info

Youghiogheny River Lake, PA

Popular Fish Species Youghiogheny River Lake, PA

Smallmouth Bass

Smallmouth bass grow big and strong, and are a favorite of many locals at Yough River Lake. Fishing for smallmouth bass is good anytime they are shallow - in spring, during high water, mornings in summer and during warmer fall afternoons. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap, and around grass use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In winter, spend your time on deeper structure with small worms, jigs and spoons. Largemouth bass and spotted bass also reside here in good numbers.

Walleye

Thanks to good fisheries management and a self-sustaining population of walleye, they are now prospering in Yough Lake this year. May and June are a great time for weekend anglers to catch them, as they spend more time in shallower water. Other times of the year they are more likely to roam around in deeper water. As always, staying close by schools of baitfish. They are eager to feed throughout the lake, but tend to concentrate around structure on points, flats and ledges off the river channels. A proven method for catching walleye here is trolling with spinners tipped with live bait, or trolling with long-billed, deep diving crankbaits. However casting live bait, jigs, worms and spoons also works well at times.

Crappie

Both black crappie and white crappie reside in Youghiogheny River Lake, and crappie fishing is particularly good this year. Crappie can be found in sizeable schools, hanging around cover and structure like brush and vegetation. Using a fish finder can help locate schools of crappie, which tend to stack vertically around cover. Live bait and small jigs are the most common method for crappie here. In spring and fall focus on the 8 to 12 foot range. As the crappie move deep in summer and winter, follow points out deep, as well as find ledges near channels in deeper water.

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, black crappie, white crappie, walleye, bluegill, pumpkinseed sunfish, rock bass, yellow perch, hybrid striped bass, chain pickerel, muskie and northern pike at Youghiogheny River Lake in Pennsylvania.

At 16 miles long and covering 2,800 acres, Youghiogheny River Lake is a large fishery, easily accessible to southwest PA anglers. The lake has a variety of fish species to pursue. Bass, walleye, crappie, hybrid stripers, catfish, muskie, chain pickerel, northern pike and sunfish all reside in this reservoir. Lake levels here may fluctuate drastically as the primary purpose of the lake is flood control. At high water levels, boat launches and a marina serve the lake.

Youghiogheny River Lake, located in southwestern Pennsylvania, is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts seeking an exciting angling experience. Spanning over 16 miles, this scenic lake offers excellent fishing opportunities for a variety of species. Anglers are drawn to Youghiogheny River Lake to target popular fish such as smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, walleye, muskellunge, northern pike, catfish, panfish and crappie. The lake's diverse underwater structure, including deep pools, rocky areas, and submerged timber, provides a thriving habitat for these species, ensuring a rewarding fishing adventure.

Youghiogheny River Lake, with its diverse fish species, boating opportunities, and camping facilities, offers an exceptional destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Pennsylvania. Whether one seeks a thrilling fishing experience, an exhilarating boating adventure, or a peaceful camping getaway, Youghiogheny River Lake provides an ideal setting to connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of this scenic destination.

Primary fish species residing in Youghiogheny River Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Youghiogheny River Lake Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: NEARBY
Convenience Store: NEARBY
Bait & Tackle: NEARBY
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

Marinas

Yough Lake Marina
140 Marina Dr
Addison, PA 15411
814 395-3423

Boating is a highlight of Youghiogheny River Lake, providing visitors with the opportunity to explore its expansive waters and access prime fishing locations. The lake allows for motorized boats, making it suitable for powerboating, kayaking, canoeing, and sailing. Boaters can launch their own vessels at the lake's multiple boat ramps or rent boats from nearby marinas. Navigating through the picturesque waters of Youghiogheny River Lake, surrounded by the lush greenery of the surrounding hills, offers a delightful experience for boating enthusiasts.

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Jockey Hollow Boat Ramp
This is a two-lane, concrete ramp with paved parking for more than forty vehicles and trailers. It is in the farthest west cove on the lake, just north of I-40, off of Dark Hollow Road.

Somerfield North Boat Ramp
Located on the east side of the lake, just north of the I-40 bridge, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking for more than forty vehicles and trailers.

Somerfield South Boat Ramp
Located on the east side of the lake, just south of the I-40 bridge, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking for more than twenty vehicles and trailers.

Fishing Guides On Youghiogheny River Lake

If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.

Youghiogheny River Lake Fishing Video

Fishing License

Click here for a Pennsylvania Fishing License.

Camping options are available within Youghiogheny River Lake's recreation area, allowing visitors to extend their stay and fully embrace the outdoor experience. The lake features campgrounds with a variety of campsites, including tent sites, RV sites, and cabins. Amenities such as picnic areas, playgrounds, and hiking trails are also available, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience. Camping at Youghiogheny River Lake allows visitors to immerse themselves in nature, enjoy lakeside activities, and unwind in the peaceful surroundings.