Fishing Lackawanna Lake

AKA: Lake Lackawanna

Popular Fish Species
Lackawanna Lake Fishing Video
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Lackawanna Lake, PA

Popular Fish Species Lackawanna Lake, PA

Lackawanna Lake Popular Fish - Rainbow Trout

Rainbow Trout Fishing

Fishing for rainbow trout at Lackawanna Lake can be effective using worms, salmon eggs, prepared baits, small spinners, spoons, jerkbaits and small crankbaits in vibrant colors to mimic prey. Use the lightest fishing line for the best possible results, based on conditions. When the lake freezes over, ice fishing can still provide some nice fishing. Annual stocking by the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission has helped to maintain a good population of rainbow trout. While fishing from a boat is often the preferred method, 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.

Walleye Fishing

Lackawanna Lake is home to a hearty population of walleye. Good fisheries management by Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission and plenty of forage in the lake have them growing fat and healthy. When the lake freezes over in winter, ice fishing for walleye can be very rewarding. Use GPS to locate fishing spots you normally fish during other times of the year. Walleye have excellent vision in low light scenarios which helps them find food in deep or murky water. Make an effort to be on the water anytime there are low light conditions. During May and June is the optimal time to catch them, while feeding in shallower water. Other times of the year they are more likely to roam around in deeper water. Concentrate around structure like points, flats and ledges off the river channels. One of the proven methods 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.

Lackawanna Lake Popular Fish - Largemouth Bass

Largemouth Bass Fishing

Lackawanna Lake is a popular bass tournament lake. Weekend and tournament anglers find the fishing to be slow at times, yet pretty good at other times. Fishing for bass can be quite rewarding, with an occasional bass over 4 pounds being caught. Bass often move shallow and become aggressive when they are in a feeding mood. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap. Around grass, use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In deeper water, drop shot rigs, big worms, jigs and spoons are good options. In winter, spend your time fishing deeper structure where the bass spend much of their time. In winter when the lake freezes over and the ice is safe, bass can also be caught while ice fishing.

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, channel catfish, black crappie, walleye, rainbow trout, bluegill, yellow perch, chain pickerel and muskie at Lackawanna Lake in Pennsylvania.

Lackawanna Lake Fishing Video

Offering both warm-water and cold-water fish species, Lackawanna Lake is a 200-acre lake in the northeast part of the state. Boating, camping, biking, hiking, swimming and fishing draw visitors to the park. Boats are limited to electric motors or un powered, making this a great environment for kayaks, canoes and row boats.

Lackawanna Lake, located in Lackawanna State Park, Pennsylvania, is a hidden gem for fishing enthusiasts seeking a peaceful angling experience. Spanning over 198 acres, this scenic lake offers excellent fishing opportunities for a variety of species. Anglers are drawn to Lackawanna Lake to target popular fish such as largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, walleye, muskellunge, catfish, and panfish like crappie and bluegill. The lake's diverse underwater structure, including submerged vegetation, rocky areas, and drop-offs, provides a thriving habitat for these species, ensuring an exciting and rewarding fishing adventure.

Boating is a popular activity on Lackawanna Lake, providing visitors with the opportunity to explore its calm waters and access prime fishing spots. The lake allows for electric-powered boats, creating a tranquil boating experience. Boaters can launch their own vessels at the lake's boat ramps or rent boats from the marina. Whether sailing, kayaking, or canoeing, boaters can navigate through the lake's serene waters, explore hidden coves, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding park.

Camping options are available in Lackawanna State Park, allowing visitors to extend their stay and fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. The park offers tent and RV camping sites, as well as cabins for those seeking a more comfortable experience. Camping at Lackawanna Lake provides the opportunity to wake up to the sounds of nature, enjoy lakeside picnics, and unwind in the peaceful atmosphere of the park.

As visitors explore Lackawanna Lake and the surrounding state park, they can immerse themselves in the scenic beauty that envelops the area. The park features rolling hills, dense forests, and the shimmering waters of the lake, creating a picturesque backdrop for outdoor activities. Nature lovers can take advantage of the park's hiking trails, go birdwatching, or simply relax by the lakeshore and appreciate the tranquility of the surroundings.

Lackawanna Lake, with its diverse fish species, tranquil boating opportunities, and camping facilities, 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, Lackawanna Lake and Lackawanna State Park provide an idyllic setting to connect with nature and enjoy the serenity of this picturesque destination.

Rental boats are available near the public swimming pool. Several trails around the lake provide access for fishing from the bank along some of the 7 miles of shoreline. An ADA accessible fishing pier is also available near the main boat ramp. A three-acre pond for youth fishing only, is at the north end of the park. When the ice is safe in winter, ice fishing is popular.

Primary fish species residing in Lackawanna Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Lackawanna Lake Amenities

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

Today's Weather & Forecast

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Bullhead Bay Launch Area
Located at the north end of the lake, on the south end of Bullhead Bay Road, this is a semi-primitive ramp and parking area.

Lackawanna State Park Boat Launch
Located just south of the Highway 407 bridge, on the west side of the lake, this three-lane, concrete ramp has a dock and ample paved parking.