If you love fishing and you’re in Pennsylvania, you’re in luck—this state is packed with awesome lakes where the fish are biting, and the views are next-level.
Whether you’re into chasing giant bass, reeling in fat catfish, or just spending a quiet morning on the water, there’s a lake here with your name on it.
Some spots are perfect for casting from shore, others are made for boat adventures, and a few even turn into ice-fishing hotspots in the winter.
From mountain lakes to massive reservoirs, we’ve rounded up the best places to fish in PA—and trust us, you’re gonna want to hit every single one.
1. Lake Erie (Presque Isle Bay)
Lake Erie’s Presque Isle Bay sits right next to the city of Erie and is one of the top fishing spots in the state.
It’s packed with smallmouth bass, perch, and black crappie—some of which are really huge.
Every spring, anglers roll in for the famous Presque Isle Bay ice-out, when fishing heats up big-time as the water thaws.
Thanks to its unique shape and shallower waters, the bay offers great fishing access by boat, kayak, or right from the shoreline.
2. Pymatuning Lake
Just south of Erie, Pymatuning Lake is a giant border-straddling reservoir shared by Pennsylvania and Ohio.
This place is legendary for walleye fishing—seriously, people drive hours just to reel in dinner here.
It’s also got crappie, muskellunge, and some impressively fat catfish that show up all over the lake.
If you come in spring, you’ll catch the crazy sight of carp swarming near the spillway, where ducks literally walk on fish (wild, right?).
3. Lake Wilhelm
Next up is Lake Wilhelm, located inside Maurice K. Goddard State Park, which is perfect for a chill day on the water.
It’s known for its chunky largemouth bass and super active panfish bite, especially bluegill and black crappie.
The lake has a 20-horsepower motor limit, so it’s mostly calm and quiet—great if you’re into kayaking or fishing from a small boat.
Near the marina parking area, there’s a spot known as the Rounded Point, which has an ADA-accessible pier that makes shore fishing easy and inclusive.
4. Kinzua Lake (Allegheny Reservoir)
Kinzua Lake—aka the Allegheny Reservoir—is your spot if you’re looking for big water and even bigger fish.
It stretches about 27 miles through the Allegheny National Forest, and it’s loaded with northern pike and trophy-sized walleye.
The deep, cold water makes it a solid pick for summer fishing, especially when warmer lakes see less action.
There’s even shoreline access right by the Kinzua Dam if you’d rather cast from land than hop in a boat.
5. High Point Lake
Way out in the Laurel Highlands, High Point Lake sits almost 2,500 feet above sea level—so yes, it’s got a view.
This mountain lake is a favorite for anglers chasing northern pike, yellow perch, and chunky largemouth bass.
It’s quiet, laid-back, and totally off the beaten path, which usually makes for a more peaceful fishing experience.
Early morning is prime time here, especially near the weed beds and coves where the fish love to hide.
6. Raystown Lake
Then there’s Raystown Lake— one of Pennsylvania’s deepest lakes and, hands-down, one of the most exciting places to fish.
It’s famous for striped bass, and they’re the kind of fish that’ll give your rod a serious workout.
This vast lake has tons of hidden coves and underwater ledges where big fish like to hang out.
You can even book a guided striper trip if you want to level up your chances of landing a monster.
7. Harveys Lake
Harveys Lake is the largest natural lake in the state, and it’s got a totally different vibe from the bigger reservoirs.
It’s a go-to spot for brown trout, smallmouth bass, and walleye, especially during the cooler months.
During the warmer seasons, anglers tend to target deeper parts of the lake, where the fish are more likely to stay active.
With lovely views, deep water, and an inviting atmosphere, Harveys Lake is a great place to spend a day on the water.
8. Lake Wallenpaupack
Lake Wallenpaupack is a Pocono Mountain classic, and it’s filled with fish and action all year round.
It’s especially popular for smallmouth and striped bass, with pickerel, walleye, and channel catfish rounding out the lineup.
Boat rentals are easy to find here, and there are also several public access points if you prefer to fish from shore.
And in winter, it turns into a total ice fishing hotspot—with locals drilling holes before sunrise to snag some perch.
9. Lake Nockamixon
Lake Nockamixon sits right in Bucks County and is perfect if you’re looking for a quick fishing getaway near Philly.
It’s stocked with muskellunge, catfish, and walleye, and it’s one of the better spots in eastern PA to chase largemouth bass.
Gas-powered boats are allowed, but there’s a 20-horsepower limit, which helps keep the water nice for kayaking or relaxed fishing.
Try fishing near the dam or the Three Mile Run area—both are known spots where anglers often report solid catches and big surprises.
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