Ice Fishing in Northeastern PA: Top Places to Try This Winter
Ice fishing in Northeastern Pennsylvania is a cold-weather tradition that transforms frozen lakes into winter playgrounds for anglers. For some, the snowy season is all about skiing, snow tubing or tackling that winter bucket list. And when it comes to NEPA’s die-hard ice fishermen, it’s about layers, ice augers and braving frozen conditions for one of the region’s most unique outdoor adventures.
If you’re ready to try ice fishing, Northeastern PA offers plenty of destinations where the fish are biting all season long. From big waters like Lake Wallenpaupack to hidden gems like Lake Irena and many of our state parks, these ice fishing spots provide adventure for anglers of all skill levels.
Check out more fishing adventures in Northeastern PA with our Ultimate Guide to Fishing in NEPA.
Lehighton, PA
Beltzville Lake in Lehighton is a 949-acre destination inside Beltzville State Park with excellent winter fishing opportunities. Anglers target stocked trout, perch, pickerel and bass across its wide frozen surface. With multiple boat launches and shoreline access points, Beltzville Lake makes frozen-lake fishing both convenient and rewarding.
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Wyoming, PA
Frances Slocum Lake in Wyoming offers a classic ice fishing experience throughout the winter months. Anglers often target crappie and panfish, but stocked trout, perch, bass, muskie and walleye also make the winter fishing rewarding. With easy parking and convenient access at Frances Slocum State Park, this 165-acre lake is a favorite cold-weather destination.
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Harveys Lake, PA
Harveys Lake in NEPA’s Back Mountain community transforms from a summer hotspot into a favorite winter fishing destination once the ice sets in. This natural glacial lake is known for deep jigging and offers stocked trout, yellow perch, pickerel and walleye. Its size and variety of fish make Harveys Lake a go-to location for ice fishing in NEPA.
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North Abington Twp., PA
Lackawanna Lake in North Abington Township is a popular ice fishing spot at Lackawanna State Park. This 198-acre lake provides easy access, convenient parking and reliable ice conditions throughout the winter. Anglers reel in trout, walleye, pickerel and largemouth bass, making Lackawanna Lake a top cold-weather fishing destination.
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Hazle Twp., PA
Lake Irena in Hazle Township offers a peaceful ice fishing setting with reliable winter action. Anglers can haul in native brook trout, stocked rainbow trout, panfish and bass on this small wooded lake. With large parking lots and a walking trail, Hazle Township Community Park makes spending a day on the ice simple and accessible.
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Benton, PA
Lake Jean in Benton is often one of the first lakes to freeze in NEPA, making it a go-to spot for ice fishing. This 245-acre destination at Ricketts Glen State Park is known for reliable ice and scenic surroundings. Anglers find stocked trout, smallmouth bass, crappie and pickerel, ensuring plenty of action on the frozen water.
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Hawley, PA
Lake Wallenpaupack in Hawley is one of NEPA’s largest ice fishing destinations, stretching across 5,700 acres in the Pocono Mountains. Anglers spread out on the frozen lake to target bass, walleye, perch, panfish, stocked trout and more. With multiple public access points, Lake Wallenpaupack makes planning a cold-weather fishing trip both easy and rewarding. Don’t forget to check out our complete Lake Wallenpaupack recreation guide.
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Greentown, PA
Lower Lake in Greentown provides 173 acres of ice fishing opportunities inside Promised Land State Park. This smaller lake is known for panfish, bass, pickerel and perch. Stocked trout add to the appeal, making Lower Lake a favorite winter fishing destination in the Poconos.
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Jim Thorpe, PA
Mauch Chunk Lake in Jim Thorpe offers 345 acres of frozen-lake fishing inside Mauch Chunk Lake Park. Anglers target perch, pickerel, bass and stocked trout throughout the winter. With reliable ice and easy public access, Mauch Chunk Lake is a popular Carbon County choice for cold-weather fishing trips.
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Plymouth Twp., PA
Moon Lake in Plymouth Township offers a quiet winter fishing experience within the Moon Lake State Forest Recreation Area of Pinchot State Forest. This scenic lake offers anglers stocked trout, bass and panfish during the ice season. With ample parking and shoreline access, Moon Lake is a convenient spot for frozen-lake fishing.
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Greentown, PA
Promised Land Lake in Greentown spans 422 acres inside Promised Land State Park, making it a prime ice fishing destination. Anglers target panfish, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, pickerel and perch on the frozen waters. Its size and fish variety make Promised Land Lake one of the Pocono Mountains’ most popular winter fishing locations.
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Prompton, PA
Prompton Lake inside Prompton State Park in Prompton remains one of the Pocono Lake Region’s most reliable ice fishing destinations. This 290-acre lake provides plenty of space for anglers to spread out. Yellow perch, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass and crappie are common catches during the ice season at Prompton Lake.
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Tobyhanna, PA
Tobyhanna Lake in Tobyhanna offers a 170-acre warm water fishery inside Tobyhanna State Park. Ice anglers often target bass, pickerel, yellow perch and panfish during the winter months. Stocked brook and brown trout add to the variety, making Tobyhanna Lake a versatile location for frozen-lake fishing.
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Barnesville, PA
Tuscarora Lake in Barnesville offers steady ice fishing action at Tuscarora State Park in Schuylkill County. This 96-acre lake is a popular choice for anglers seeking bass, muskie, perch and pickerel. Stocked trout enhance the fishing experience, making Tuscarora Lake a dependable cold-weather destination.
Learn MoreStay Safe While Ice Fishing
Follow these safety tips from the PA DCNR before heading out:
- Test ice thickness with an auger. At least 4 inches of solid ice is recommended for one person.
- Check for groups. Seven inches of solid ice is the minimum for small groups.
- Carry safety equipment and know how to use it before stepping onto the ice.
- Spread out. Avoid gathering in one spot, as too much weight can weaken the ice.
- Watch for changes in thickness. Ice is weaker around the shoreline due to shifting, expansion and sunlight.
- Avoid hazards such as logs, brush, plants and docks, which absorb heat and weaken ice nearby.
- Steer clear of cracks. Multiple or intersecting cracks, and areas with standing water, can be unsafe.
- Don’t go alone. Bring a friend for both safety and fun.
- Wear a PFD (life jacket). It adds protection in case of an accident.
- Check the weather. Several days above freezing can quickly weaken ice.
Always check PA Fish & Boat Commission regulations before heading out.
Grab your gear, bundle up and enjoy the season—ice fishing in NEPA is winter adventure at its best.
Ultimate Guide to Fishing in Northeastern PA
Article updated from its original version published on 1/24/25.
