Ultimate Guide to Fishing in Northeastern PA

With long, winding rivers, clear, cool streams, mountain lakes, and ponds, Northeastern Pennsylvania is a true fishing paradise. Anglers from near and far flock here year-round to cast a line. Spend spring days chasing trout on the Lehigh River. Target smallmouth bass on the Susquehanna River all summer. Or, try ice fishing for crappie on Lake Wallenpaupack in the winter.

From elusive monster muskies to feisty channel catfish to punchy panfish, no matter the size or species, you can catch them all right here in NEPA. And you don’t have to be a seasoned pro. We even have beginners covered with plenty of expert fishing guides and outfitters ready to make your fishing experience one to remember.

Northeastern PA offers top fishing spots in every season. Cast your line at 16 of our 18 state parks. Explore the rivers and streams of the Pocono Mountains. Look for hidden fishing holes throughout the Endless Mountains and even in the middle of our Valley Communities. And, the best part about fishing in Northeastern Pennsylvania is that our great outdoors stay open all year long.

Trout fishing in NEPA is more than a hobby—it’s a tradition

Each year, the first Saturday in April marks the official start of trout season, one of the region’s most anticipated outdoor events. Known locally as “opening day,” it signals the shift from winter ice fishing to spring days on open water. For many, trout fishing means early mornings and breakfast at a local diner before heading to the stream. For families, NEPA’s stocked lakes and ponds offer an opportunity for fun days on the water and passing down coveted fishing secrets to the next generation of anglers.

The trout fishing options are nearly endless. Whether you prefer relaxing lakeside or wading directly into the river or stream, finding trout here is as easy as locating cold, clear water. Nearly all of NEPA’s 18 state parks feature stocked streams and lakes, making them ideal for families and first-time anglers. With convenient parking, easy water access, and park rangers nearby, state parks are a stress-free way to spend a day on the water. Each year, the PA Fish & Boat Commission stocks over 3 million trout across Pennsylvania waters—waiting for anglers to discover.

Use our NEPA trout fishing guide to find everything you need—from fishing spots and licensing info to tips for making the most of your trout fishing experience.

NEPA’s Favorite Sport Fish

Every summer, anglers across Northeastern Pennsylvania gear up for the start of bass fishing season. From the Susquehanna River to Lake Wallenpaupack and dozens of lakes and ponds, the region’s waters come alive with anglers chasing both largemouth and smallmouth bass. Whether you’re loading up the bass boat, casting from shore, or teaching the kids with a simple rod and worms, bass fishing is classic summer fun in NEPA.

Bass fishing here is accessible, widespread, and perfect for all skill levels. Northeastern PA’s rivers hold strong bass populations with plenty of public boat launches and fishing access points. If you prefer lakes, visit one of NEPA’s 18 state parks, where you can fish from shaded shores or rent boats, kayaks, and canoes to reach deeper waters.

Check out our NEPA bass fishing guide for top bass fishing spots, tips on the best gear and more. Grab your rod, reel and tackle box and make the most of your summer on the water.

Frigid temps, snow and ice can’t stop a serious NEPA angler

When the deep winter months blanket Northeastern PA in snow and ice, outdoor enthusiasts find countless ways to embrace the season. Some bundle up for a refreshing winter hike or sledding with the kids on the neighborhood hill or at one of our popular parks. And then there are the truly hardy souls who seek a quieter thrill — venturing out onto NEPA’s frozen lakes, drilling holes, dropping lines, and patiently jigging for the catch of the day.

This timeless fishing tradition blends resilience, relaxation, and reward. The experience may test your endurance against single-digit temps and brisk winds, but the payoff is always worth it. For many, the rewards come in the form of a hearty meal: a sizzling, old-fashioned fish fry, a steaming pot of creamy chowder, or simply the satisfaction (and bragging rights) of catching fish under the most challenging conditions Mother Nature can offer.

Take a look at our handy ice fishing round-up for some of the best spots to drill a hole and drop a line once the winter freeze takes hold.

Find your secret fishing spot

It’s really no secret. NEPA offers some of the best fishing in Pennsylvania. From easily-accessible parks and lakes to trout-filled streams to our beautiful rivers teeming with smallmouth bass, you’ll have little trouble finding great fishing spots all over the region.

Fishing in NEPA isn’t just about the catch—it’s about reconnecting with nature. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, a day on the water is always time well spent. Cast your line for wild trout in mountain streams, wade into the Susquehanna River for summer bass, or kayak across quiet lakes tucked into NEPA’s incredible state parks and state forests. With year-round access to rivers, lakes, and ponds, Northeastern Pennsylvania is a true fishing destination for every season.

Every year, thousands of anglers head out onto Pennsylvania’s lakes and streams. We encourage everyone to keep their fishing spots as clean—or even cleaner—than they found them.

By following these responsible outdoor ethics from our friends at PA DCNR we can help preserve these natural areas:

Leave No Trace

• Take out everything that you take in — litter can be hazardous to wildlife.
• Properly dispose of fishing line — wildlife can easily become trapped or injured in fishing line. Look for used fishing line receptacles at state and local parks.
• Don’t discard bait at your fishing site — pack out all leftover live bait, bait cups, and other trash and properly dispose it.
• Know how to identify invasive plants — avoid fishing near them and be vigilant you aren’t transporting them to a new location.
• Use lead-free tackle — if you find lead sinkers or jigs, pick them up and properly dispose of them.
• Clean off your gear — remove plants and mud from boats, waders, and other gear before leaving a site. Wash and dry them before fishing in a new spot.