Cool Fall Weather Leads to Great Fishing on the Susquehanna River
As fall settles in across Northeastern Pennsylvania, fishing on the Susquehanna River begins to heat up. For many local anglers, fishing the river from late September through November (and sometimes into early December) is a must. The cooler weather often means less competition on the water, hungry, aggressive fish and plenty of opportunities to target a variety of species. And as a bonus, the vibrant fall foliage helps to create an almost surreal setting.
Don’t put that fishing gear away just yet
Sure, it’s colder, but, for fishing, that’s actually a good thing. The changing water temperature forces fish to seek deeper, warmer water – making the many channels, pools, rock piles and drop-offs in the Susquehanna River prime targets for experienced fishermen. This winter prep also drives an insatiable urge, within most fish species, to bulk up by feeing more frequently and more aggressively than normal.
From the rough and tumble small mouth bass and hefty channel cats to trophy muskies and more, you’ll find them all while fishing the Susquehanna River this fall.
The King of the Susquehanna
In the fall, smallmouth bass migrate from their summer feeding grounds in the shallows to deeper water. You’ll find them near drop-offs, ledges, big boulders and on the edges of the channels. Tube jigs, crankbaits, soft plastics, jerk baits and live minnows all work well in the fall.
Photo courtesy of 2Fish Guide Service in Tunkhannock, PA.
Monsters of the Deep
While a popular species to target during the summer, channel catfish and flathead catfish remain quite active through the fall (warmer afternoons and evenings are best). You’ll find them in the deepest holes and channels near solid structure. Cut bait, live large shiners (minnows) and stink bait work best.
Photo courtesy of Al’s Susquehanna Guide Service in Dunmore, PA.
The Susquehanna Salmon
Walleye tend to be much more active as the water cools. They’re typically dawn and dusk feeders with a penchant for hanging out in deeper pools with a steady current. Jig and minnow combos work best, but you’ll also have good luck with soft plastic grubs and crankbaits.
Photo courtesy of 2Fish Guide Service in Tunkhannock, PA.
The Fish of 10,000 Casts
Every fisherman worth his salt is on the lookout for that elusive, 45-inch-or-better muskie. They are aggressive and actually prefer to hunt baitfish in the shallows during the cooler months. You may have luck spotting them near tributary confluences, weedy edges and drop-offs. Large jerk baits, glide baits, bucktails and buzz baits are ideal for these incredible fish.
Photo courtesy of Al’s Susquehanna Guide Service in Dunmore, PA.
Susquehanna River Recreation Guide
Uncover top activities along the Susquehanna River in NEPA, from kayaking and fishing to scenic hiking trails and wildlife spotting. Plan fishing adventures on the river with professional fishing guides. Get all your outdoor gear like rods, bait, hiking boots and more at a variety of outdoor outfitters, sporting goods stores and bait shops near the river. And find easy access to the river for hiking, fishing and plenty of recreational opportunities at many public boat launches, local parks and trails that connect to the river.
Plan your perfect outdoor adventure on the Susquehanna River with this detailed recreation guide.
Fall Fishing on the Susquehanna River FAQ
- The Susquehanna River winds through some of Northeastern Pennsylvania’s most colorful fall scenery from the Endless Mountains to the Wyoming Valley.
- Fish activity peaks when river temperatures drop into the 50s and low 60s, triggering smallmouth bass, walleye, muskie and northern pike to feed heavily before winter.
- Pennsylvania’s record smallmouth bass — weighing over eight pounds — was caught on the Susquehanna River. Many anglers consider the North Branch one of the best smallmouth fisheries in the eastern United States.
- The Susquehanna never really “closes” to fishing. Fall brings fewer crowds and big bites, while winter offers calm flows and the chance for trophy fish if you’re willing to brave the cold.
- Yes. You still need a Pennsylvania Fishing License to fish the Susquehanna River no matter what time of year it is. You can purchase a fishing license online via the PA Hunt/Fish portal or in-person by visiting your local licensing agent. There are a variety of license options like multi-year licenses, non-resident (tourist) licenses and several discounts and exemptions.
Article updated from its original version published on 10/20/22.
