Fishing Keystone Lake
AKA: Keystone State Park Lake
Popular Fish Species Keystone Lake, PA
Crappie Fishing
Keystone Lake continues to impress crappie enthusiasts again this year with good numbers and plenty of quality slabs. Light line and small hooks are key when fishing live bait. Crappie jigs are also productive her in a wide variety of colors. The lake has healthy populations of both white crappie and black crappie. These two species typically tend to school separately. However, once located around cover, you may find that you catch both species, due to the fact they often share the same cover. Crappie fishing can be found in varying size schools, hanging around brush, vegetation, wood or other cover. Using a fish finder any time of year can help locate these crappie schools, 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, especially areas with brush or timber in deeper water. The best time to catch crappie tends to be at dawn and dusk.
Rainbow Trout Fishing
Consistent stocking programs by the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission have maintained a good population of rainbow trout for anglers at Keystone Lake. Fish for rainbow trout here with worms, salmon eggs, prepared baits, small spinners, spoons, jerkbaits and small crankbaits in vibrant colors to mimic their preferred prey. While fishing from a boat is preferred, plenty of trout are caught here by anglers fishing from the bank. Additionally, floating or sinking flies, such as nymphs, streamers, or dry flies, are popular choices for fly anglers targeting rainbow trout. Trolling with lures or flies behind a boat, casting near shoreline structures, or still fishing with bait can all yield success. Adjusting lure size, color, and retrieve speed can enhance chances of enticing these colorful and spirited fish.
Bluegill Fishing
Fishing for bluegill is a time-honored tradition at Keystone Lake, with plenty of fat gills to catch. Young and old, beginners and seasoned anglers alike, all enjoy catching a bunch of fat bluegill. This year, much like recent years, the bluegill population is healthy and always looking for something to eat. Bluegill fishing is as basic as fishing gets. Any pole, reasonably small line and small hooks baited with anything edible, creates the ideal setup. Add a bobber and you can set the depth you prefer the bait to position. Bluegill hang around brush, rocks, vegetation or any cover available.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, black crappie, white crappie, rainbow trout, bluegill, yellow perch and tiger muskie at Keystone Lake in Pennsylvania.
Keystone Lake Fishing Video
Keystone State Park offers a multitude of outdoor activities, many of which are related to the center piece of the park, Keystone Lake. This 80-acre lake in the southwest part of the state, has over 2 miles of shoreline and offers fishing for bass, crappie, trout, perch and others. Boating is limited to electric or non-powered boats, limited bank fishing is available, and ice fishing is allowed in winter.
Keystone Lake, situated in Keystone State Park in Pennsylvania, is a haven for fishing enthusiasts seeking an enjoyable angling experience. Spanning over 78 acres, this picturesque lake offers excellent fishing opportunities for a variety of species. Anglers are drawn to Keystone Lake to target popular fish such as largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, walleye, northern pike, catfish, and panfish like crappie and bluegill. The lake's diverse underwater structure, including submerged trees, brush piles, and rocky areas, provides an ideal habitat for these species, ensuring an exciting and rewarding fishing adventure.
Boating is a popular activity on Keystone Lake, providing visitors with the opportunity to explore its tranquil waters and access prime fishing spots. The lake allows for electric-powered boats, creating a peaceful and eco-friendly boating experience. Boaters can bring their own vessels or rent boats from the park. Whether sailing, kayaking, or canoeing, boaters can navigate through the lake's calm waters, discover hidden coves, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding landscape.
Camping options are available in Keystone State Park, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. The park offers various camping facilities, including tent and RV sites, as well as cabins for those seeking a more comfortable experience. Camping at Keystone Lake offers the opportunity to wake up to the sounds of nature, enjoy lakeside activities, and relax in the peaceful ambiance of the park.
As visitors explore Keystone Lake and the surrounding park, they can appreciate the scenic landscapes that envelop the area. The park features rolling hills, lush forests, and the sparkling waters of the lake, creating a picturesque backdrop for outdoor activities. Nature enthusiasts can take advantage of the park's hiking trails, go birdwatching, or simply relax by the lakeshore and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.
Keystone Lake, with its diverse fish species, boating opportunities, and camping amenities, offers a serene retreat for outdoor enthusiasts in Pennsylvania. Whether one seeks a rewarding fishing experience, a leisurely boating adventure, or a peaceful camping getaway, Keystone Lake and Keystone State Park provide an ideal setting to connect with nature and enjoy the serenity of this picturesque destination.
Primary fish species residing in Keystone Lake
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Keystone Lake Amenities
Marina: NO
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: NO
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: NEARBY
Today's Weather & Forecast
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Atwood Boat Ramp - East Side
Located mid lake, off White Oak Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with limited gravel parking.
Atwood Boat Ramp - West Side
Located mid lake, off Highway 210, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with limited gavel parking.
Fishing Guides On Keystone Lake
If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.
Fishing License
Click here for a Pennsylvania Fishing License.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
Keystone State Park - 724 668-2939
Miller's Campground - 724 668-8589
Lazy Acres Campground - 724 668-8067
Keystone Lake PA Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Keystone Lake
Keystone State Park
1150 Keystone Park Road
Derry, PA 15627
724 668-2939
Fishing lakes in each state.
081424
Keystone Lake in PA
PENNSYLVANIA
Fishing for bass, crappie, trout and perch in southeast PA