We’ve teamed up with local fisherman and Managing Editor at Anglers.com, Coty Perry, to bring NEPA the scoop on hot, local fishing spots, must-have gear, tips and tricks and so much more. Stay tuned to DiscoverNEPA for more from this local expert.
A Local Angler's Take on NEPA's Top Bass Lakes
If there’s one thing I’ve learned about fishing NEPA waters for the past 20 years, it’s that everyone and their brother has an opinion on the “best bass spot.”
My goal is to offer a few of my favorite spots that I think many of you haven’t heard of. There are definitely some familiar fish haunts, but I can guarantee there’s at least one or two you haven’t checked out before.
Horton’s Lake — Lenox, PA
No matter how you cut it, Hortons is my favorite lake in NEPA. It’s a unique one because it’s actually a privately owned campground in Lenox right off Interstate 81.
You can walk around about 75% of the shoreline making it incredibly fishable for shore anglers. The lake is a 3rd generation family-owned pond that started in 1959. My dad and I started fishing here when I was probably six years old.
As it stands now, it’s $10 per person for the day and you can rent a boat with a trolling motor for an additional $10. Keep in mind, since it’s private, you don’t need a license. The water in the back half is loaded with stumps so it’s a great opportunity for largemouth bass.
Stillwater Dam — Clifford Twp., PA
Stillwater is another place I frequent. It’s up North outside Union Dale and it’s another one that is incredibly easy to reach since it’s right off 171 which you can access straight out of Carbondale.
There are a ton of great areas here that are only accessible when water levels are high so I recommend launching a boat if you can time it right. There’s also plenty of areas where you can cast from the shore through a few small paths that will take you down closer to the water.
Lake Moc-A-Tek — Lake Ariel, PA
Here’s another one that a lot of visitors to the area may overlook if you’re not camping. Lake Moc-A-Tek is a campground just a few minutes from Lake Wallenpaupack. It’s been a little since I’ve fished here but again, the memories stay with me forever.
I’ve spent many days on the water here pulling in smallies, largemouth, and rock bass. You do need a license to fish this lake but it’s a great option for shore fishing and for those who may not have the space to store a boat. You can rent one for the day and fish regardless of whether or not you’re camping.
Prompton State Park – Prompton, PA
If you’re traveling to the area and you’re looking for a place that has it all but isn’t going to charge you, the state parks are the way to go. This 290-acre lake outside Honesdale is well known for its smallmouth as well as perch fishing. It’s also a great spot for ice fishing if that’s your game.
Part of the reason why I choose to recommend Prompton is because you can make a full day out of a trip here even if the whole family isn’t interested in fishing. You can set up a picnic on the shore and there are plenty of great hiking opportunities as well.
