Union County, Pennsylvania offers some of central Pennsylvania's most rewarding yet often overlooked fishing opportunities. Nestled between the West Branch Susquehanna River and the rolling hills of the Appalachian Mountains, this county provides diverse fishing experiences that range from pristine mountain streams teeming with native trout to quiet lakes perfect for bass and panfish. With over 400 square miles of terrain and numerous waterways flowing through the county, Union County presents anglers with year-round fishing opportunities that rival any destination in the Keystone State.
I've spent countless hours exploring Union County's waters, from the popular McCalls Dam State Park to the hidden gems along Buffalo Creek and Penns Creek. What makes this area special isn't just the quality of fishing – it's the accessibility and variety that caters to everyone from beginners casting their first line to experienced fly fishermen seeking trophy trout. The county's strategic location, just minutes from Lewisburg and within easy reach of State College and Harrisburg, makes it an ideal destination for both day trips and extended fishing adventures.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the top fishing locations throughout Union County, breaking down what makes each spot unique, what species you can expect to catch, and the best times to visit. We'll also cover essential information about Pennsylvania fishing regulations, licensing requirements specific to 2026, and local tips that will help you make the most of your time on the water. Whether you're a local resident looking to discover new fishing holes or a visitor planning your first trip to central Pennsylvania, this guide provides everything you need for successful fishing in Union County.
Top Fishing Spots in Union County PA
1. McCalls Dam State Park
McCalls Dam State Park stands as Union County's premier public fishing destination, offering 186 acres of parkland centered around a scenic 5-acre lake. Located just 7 miles northeast of Mifflinburg along PA Route 192, this park provides excellent fishing opportunities for families and serious anglers alike. The lake maintains healthy populations of largemouth bass, bluegill, pumpkinseed sunfish, and yellow perch, with Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission stocking the waters with trout twice annually – once before the spring season opener and again in October for fall fishing.
The park features a fully accessible fishing pier that extends 20 feet into the lake, making it perfect for anglers with mobility challenges or families with young children. Shore fishing access circles nearly the entire lake perimeter, with well-maintained trails providing easy access to productive fishing spots. I've found the northern shoreline particularly productive for bass in the early morning hours, especially near the fallen timber and weed beds that provide excellent cover. The dam area itself produces consistent results for panfish throughout the summer months.
Electric motors only are permitted on the lake, maintaining a peaceful fishing environment. The park provides a boat launch suitable for small boats, canoes, and kayaks. During my visits, I've noticed that slow-trolling small spinners or live bait along the deeper channels near the dam consistently produces catches, particularly during the warmer months when fish seek cooler waters.
2. Penns Creek
Penns Creek, flowing along Union County's southern border, ranks among Pennsylvania's most celebrated trout streams. This limestone-influenced waterway maintains consistent temperatures and excellent insect hatches that support a robust wild brown trout population alongside stocked rainbow and brook trout. The section from Coburn to Weikert, known as the "Catch and Release" area, attracts fly fishing enthusiasts from across the country seeking challenging technical fishing for educated trout.
Access to Penns Creek in Union County varies from roadside pull-offs along Route 45 to designated Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission access areas. The stretch near Glen Iron provides excellent wade fishing opportunities with a mix of riffles, runs, and deep pools that hold fish throughout the season. Spring brings legendary Green Drake hatches in late May and early June, when even the most selective trout become active surface feeders. Summer fishing requires stealth and precision, with early morning and evening sessions producing the best results.
The creek's width varies from 50 to 100 feet through Union County, creating diverse habitat that supports everything from small native brook trout in the tributaries to trophy browns exceeding 20 inches in the main stem. Local fly patterns that imitate sulphurs, caddis, and terrestrials prove effective throughout the season. I recommend checking water levels before visiting, as Penns Creek can become unfishable during high water events following heavy rains.
3. Buffalo Creek
Buffalo Creek winds through the heart of Union County, offering 30 miles of diverse fishing opportunities from its headwaters near Mifflinburg to its confluence with the West Branch Susquehanna River near Lewisburg. This warmwater stream supports excellent smallmouth bass fishing, particularly in the lower sections where deeper pools and rocky structure create ideal habitat. The creek also holds good numbers of rock bass, fallfish, and seasonal runs of catfish.
The most productive sections of Buffalo Creek for bass fishing stretch from Buffalo Crossroads downstream to New Berlin, where the stream gains volume and creates the deeper pools that smallmouth prefer. Wade fishing proves most effective here, allowing anglers to work tubes, soft plastics, and small crankbaits through the current breaks and eddies where bass ambush prey. During summer, topwater action peaks during dawn and dusk periods, with poppers and buzzbaits triggering explosive strikes.
Multiple bridge crossings provide convenient access points throughout the county, though obtaining landowner permission remains essential when fishing from private property. The creek experiences significant seasonal variations in water levels, with spring offering the most consistent flows. Following summer thunderstorms, Buffalo Creek can muddy quickly but often produces excellent catfish action as water levels rise.
4. Limestone Springs Fishing Preserve
Limestone Springs Fishing Preserve, located near Richfield, offers a unique pay-to-fish experience with guaranteed action on well-maintained private waters. This facility stocks their spring-fed ponds heavily with rainbow, brown, and golden trout, providing consistent catching opportunities regardless of weather conditions or season. The preserve operates on a pay-per-pound system, making it an excellent choice for anglers wanting to bring home fresh fish for dinner.
The preserve maintains three separate ponds totaling approximately 6 acres, each managed for different fishing experiences. The main pond focuses on family fishing with easy access and regular stocking, while the back ponds offer more challenging conditions for experienced anglers seeking larger fish. No license is required to fish here, making it particularly attractive for out-of-state visitors or those introducing children to fishing without the complexity of licensing requirements.
Bait and basic tackle are available on-site, and the staff provides cleaning stations and will even clean your catch for a small fee. The preserve stocks trophy-sized trout regularly, with fish exceeding 5 pounds not uncommon. PowerBait, salmon eggs, and small spinners consistently produce results, though fly fishing enthusiasts will find plenty of room to practice their craft on the less crowded upper pond.
5. Faylor Lake
Faylor Lake, a hidden gem located in the western portion of Union County near Hartleton, offers 25 acres of productive water surrounded by scenic farmland and forest. This semi-private lake (day-use fee required) maintains excellent populations of largemouth bass, crappie, and bluegill, with less fishing pressure than more publicized waters. The lake's clear water and abundant structure, including submerged timber, weed beds, and a variety of depth changes, create ideal conditions for multiple species.
Spring crappie fishing at Faylor Lake ranks among the best in central Pennsylvania, with fish congregating around submerged brush piles and fallen trees during the pre-spawn period. Small jigs tipped with minnows or soft plastics in white, chartreuse, or pink produce consistent results when worked slowly through the structure. Bass fishing peaks during early summer mornings, with topwater lures and plastic worms excelling around the weed edges and lily pad fields.
The lake permits electric motors only, maintaining a quiet atmosphere perfect for serious fishing. A primitive launch accommodates small boats and kayaks, though shore fishing access remains limited to several designated areas. The deepest section near the dam drops to approximately 18 feet, holding fish during the heat of summer and providing ice fishing opportunities when conditions allow.
Seasonal Fishing Calendar for Union County PA
Spring (March - May)
Spring fishing in Union County begins with the statewide mentored youth trout day, typically the Saturday before opening day, followed by the regional opening day of trout season on the first Saturday in April. Water temperatures ranging from 45-65°F trigger increased fish activity across all species. Trout fishing dominates early spring, with stocked fish providing excellent action in McCalls Dam State Park and area streams. As water temperatures rise through April and May, bass become increasingly active, moving into shallow water for spawning activities.
Penn's Creek experiences some of its best dry fly fishing during the spring hatches, particularly the famous Green Drake emergence in late May and early June. Buffalo Creek smallmouth bass begin actively feeding as water temperatures approach 60°F, with crawfish patterns and small spinnerbaits producing consistent results. Panfish move into shallow water for spawning by mid-May, providing excellent opportunities for family fishing adventures.
Summer (June - August)
Summer fishing requires adjusting tactics to account for warmer water temperatures and increased recreational pressure on popular waters. Early morning and evening sessions produce the best results, with midday fishing often slow except in deeper, cooler waters. Trout fishing becomes challenging in many streams as water temperatures rise, though Penns Creek's limestone influence maintains fishable conditions throughout summer. Focus on shaded areas, spring seeps, and deeper pools during the heat of the day.
Bass fishing reaches its peak during summer, with both largemouth and smallmouth actively feeding to support increased metabolisms. Topwater action excels during low-light periods, while soft plastics and jigs worked along structure produce during bright conditions. Catfish become increasingly active in area streams and rivers, particularly following summer thunderstorms that increase water flow and wash food into the system.
Fall (September - November)
Fall fishing in Union County offers some of the year's best opportunities as fish feed heavily in preparation for winter. Water temperatures dropping back into the 50-65°F range trigger aggressive feeding behavior across all species. The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission conducts fall trout stockings in October, refreshing opportunities at McCalls Dam State Park and selected streams. These fresh stockings, combined with improved water conditions, create excellent trout fishing through November.
Bass fishing remains strong through October, with fish following baitfish schools and feeding aggressively on moving baits like spinnerbaits, crankbaits, and swimbaits. As water temperatures drop below 50°F in November, fishing slows but remains productive for persistent anglers using slower presentations. Fall represents prime time for trophy fishing, as fish reach their maximum weight for the year.
Winter (December - February)
Winter fishing in Union County centers on ice fishing opportunities when safe ice conditions develop, typically from late December through February. McCalls Dam State Park and Faylor Lake provide the most reliable ice fishing, with panfish, perch, and occasional bass providing action for properly equipped anglers. Safe ice requires a minimum of 4 inches for walking, though conditions vary significantly based on weather patterns. Always verify ice thickness before venturing out.
Open water fishing continues in flowing waters that resist freezing, with dedicated anglers finding success for trout in area streams during mild weather windows. Slow presentations with small jigs, live bait, or fly fishing with nymphs and midges produce when water temperatures hover in the mid-30s to low-40s. Winter fishing requires proper clothing and safety equipment, but reduced fishing pressure and the chance for solitude make cold-weather angling rewarding for those willing to brave the elements.
Pennsylvania Fishing Licenses and Regulations for Union County
License Requirements
All anglers 16 years and older must possess a valid Pennsylvania fishing license to fish in Union County waters. For 2026, basic annual fishing licenses cost $22.97 for Pennsylvania residents and $52.97 for non-residents. Senior residents (65+) can purchase annual licenses for $11.97, while senior lifetime licenses are available for $51.97. The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission also offers 1-day ($11.97), 3-day ($16.97), and 7-day ($24.97) tourist licenses for non-residents, perfect for visitors planning shorter fishing trips.
Trout fishing requires an additional trout permit ($9.97) along with the basic fishing license. This combination license allows fishing for trout and other species year-round. Lake Erie permits and combination hunt/fish licenses provide additional options for anglers with diverse interests. Licenses can be purchased online through the Pennsylvania Automated Licensing System (PALS), at authorized issuing agents throughout the county including sporting goods stores and some convenience stores, or directly from the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission.
Size and Creel Limits
Understanding size and creel limits ensures sustainable fishing while staying compliant with regulations. For trout, the regular season (day after Labor Day through the Friday before opening day) allows 5 trout per day with a 7-inch minimum size. Extended trout season regulations apply to McCalls Dam State Park lake and other approved waters, permitting year-round fishing with a 3 trout daily limit and 7-inch minimum during the extended season.
Bass regulations in Union County follow statewide rules: largemouth and smallmouth bass have a 15-inch minimum size limit with a daily limit of 6 combined (no more than 4 of either species). During the catch-and-release season (January 1 through mid-June), all bass must be immediately released. Panfish including bluegill, sunfish, and crappie have a 50 combined daily limit with no minimum size. Yellow perch have no minimum size with a 50 fish daily limit, while catfish have no size or creel limits.
Special Regulation Waters
Penns Creek contains several special regulation sections that anglers must understand before fishing. The Catch and Release Fly Fishing Only section extends 3.9 miles from the confluence of Elk Creek downstream to the catch and release project boundary near Coburn. This section requires artificial lures or flies only, with all fish immediately released. No fish may be killed or possessed, and fishing is permitted year-round. These regulations protect the wild trout population while providing challenging fishing opportunities.
Delayed Harvest Artificial Lures Only (DHALO) regulations apply to selected waters from October 1 through the second Monday in June. During this period, artificial lures or flies only may be used, with no trout killed or possessed. From the second Monday in June through September 30, regular trout regulations apply. Always check current regulations as special regulation waters can change annually based on management decisions.
Local Fishing Tips and Techniques
Best Times to Fish
Success in Union County waters often depends on timing your trips to coincide with optimal conditions. I've found early morning fishing, particularly the first two hours after sunrise, consistently produces the best results across all species from late spring through early fall. Evening fishing, especially the last hour before dark, rivals morning productivity and often features exciting topwater action for bass and aggressive trout rises during hatch activity.
Weather patterns significantly impact fishing success. Overcast days with light rain often produce all-day action, as cloud cover reduces light penetration and makes fish less wary. Stable weather patterns of 2-3 days typically fish better than immediately following frontal passages. During summer, fishing immediately before thunderstorms can trigger feeding frenzies, though safety should always take priority over fishing when lightning threatens.
Effective Bait and Lure Selection
Live bait remains highly effective in Union County waters. Nightcrawlers and red worms excel for trout and panfish, while minnows produce for bass, crappie, and larger trout. During summer, grasshoppers and crickets gathered from streamside fields trigger aggressive strikes from both trout and smallmouth bass. Crayfish, either live or soft plastic imitations, consistently catch bass throughout the season.
Artificial lure selection should match local forage and seasonal patterns. For trout, small spinners (size 0-2 Mepps, Rooster Tails, or Panther Martins) in gold, silver, or rainbow patterns produce throughout the season. Fly fishermen should stock boxes with local favorites including Elk Hair Caddis, Adams, Pheasant Tail Nymphs, and Woolly Buggers in sizes 12-18. Bass respond to traditional patterns: plastic worms (green pumpkin, black, watermelon) for consistent production, spinnerbaits for covering water, and topwater lures during low-light periods.
Access Points and Etiquette
Respecting private property and practicing good etiquette ensures continued access to Union County's fishing opportunities. Always obtain permission before crossing private land to access streams, and respect posted boundaries. Many landowners willingly grant access to respectful anglers who ask permission and follow their guidelines. Leave gates as you found them, pack out all trash (including discarded fishing line), and avoid disturbing livestock or crops.
When fishing popular spots like McCalls Dam State Park during busy periods, maintain appropriate spacing between other anglers – generally at least 50 feet on streams and reasonable distance on lake shores. Avoid walking through areas where others are actively fishing, and keep noise levels reasonable. If you encounter another angler working a particular pool or stretch of stream, either wait for them to move on or find another location rather than crowding their space.
Conservation and Best Practices
Practicing catch and release helps maintain healthy fish populations for future generations. When releasing fish, minimize handling time and keep fish in the water as much as possible. Use barbless hooks or crimp down barbs to facilitate easy hook removal. Wet hands before handling fish to protect their slime coat, and support larger fish horizontally with both hands. During warm weather, avoid fishing for trout when water temperatures exceed 70°F, as catch and release mortality increases significantly.
Protecting Union County's water quality ensures continued excellent fishing. Avoid introducing aquatic invasive species by cleaning, draining, and drying boats and equipment when moving between waters. Never transport live fish between waterways, and dispose of unused bait properly – never dump bait bucket contents into waters where they weren't collected. Report pollution events, fish kills, or suspected poaching to the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission's Pollution and Waterways Conservation hotline.
Supporting local conservation efforts through volunteer work or donations helps improve fishing opportunities. Organizations like Trout Unlimited, Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, and local sportsmen's clubs conduct stream improvement projects, habitat restoration, and youth education programs. Purchasing fishing licenses and permits directly funds fisheries management, stocking programs, and access area maintenance that benefit all anglers.
Equipment and Preparation
Proper equipment selection enhances fishing success and enjoyment in Union County waters. A medium-action spinning rod in the 6-7 foot range handles most local fishing situations, from stream trout to lake bass. Pair this with a quality reel spooled with 6-8 pound monofilament or fluorocarbon line for versatility. Fly fishermen targeting Penns Creek should consider a 9-foot, 5-weight rod capable of handling everything from delicate dry fly presentations to nymphing and streamer fishing.
Essential tackle box contents for Union County fishing include a selection of hooks (sizes 6-12 for most applications), split shot weights, bobbers, and swivels. Stock various lures including spinners, soft plastics, and a few hard baits like crankbaits or jerkbaits. Don't forget needle-nose pliers for hook removal, line clippers, and a landing net for safely handling larger fish. A small first aid kit, sunscreen, and insect repellent prove invaluable during long days on the water.
Weather-appropriate clothing ensures comfortable fishing regardless of conditions. Layering systems work best in Pennsylvania's variable climate, allowing adjustment as temperatures change throughout the day. Quality rain gear keeps you fishing through passing showers that often trigger excellent bite windows. During summer, lightweight, quick-dry clothing with UV protection prevents sunburn, while insulated, waterproof gear becomes essential for late fall and winter fishing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a trout stamp to fish for bass in Union County streams?
No, you only need a trout stamp if you intend to fish for or possess trout. If you're specifically targeting bass, catfish, or other warmwater species and will immediately release any accidentally caught trout, the basic fishing license suffices. However, many anglers purchase the trout stamp for flexibility since both species often inhabit the same waters.
Can I use corn as bait for trout in Pennsylvania?
Yes, corn is legal bait for trout in Pennsylvania, despite persistent myths suggesting otherwise. Corn works effectively for stocked trout, particularly in lakes and ponds. However, corn cannot be used as bait in waters designated as Approved Trout Waters during the closed season (March 1 through opening day of trout season).
What's the best time of year to fish Penns Creek?
While Penns Creek fishes well year-round, many consider late May through June the prime time due to exceptional insect hatches including the famous Green Drake. September and October also provide excellent fishing with terrestrial patterns and fall hatches. For beginners, late April through May offers the best combination of willing fish and comfortable weather conditions.
Are there any free fishing days in Pennsylvania?
No, Pennsylvania does not currently offer free fishing days where licenses aren't required. However, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission sponsors numerous youth fishing events throughout the year where equipment and instruction are provided free of charge. Children under 16 can fish without a license year-round.
Where can I find current trout stocking schedules for Union County?
The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission publishes stocking schedules on their website, typically releasing them in late February for the upcoming season. McCalls Dam State Park receives spring stockings before opening day and fall stockings in October. In-season stockings occur based on conditions and hatchery availability.
Is ice fishing allowed at McCalls Dam State Park?
Yes, ice fishing is permitted at McCalls Dam State Park when ice conditions are safe. The park doesn't monitor ice thickness, so anglers fish at their own risk. Generally, 4 inches of clear, solid ice is considered safe for walking, though conditions can vary across the lake. Always test thickness before venturing out.
What should I do if I catch a tagged fish?
Report tagged fish to the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission by calling the number on the tag or through their website. Record the tag number, species, length, location caught, and date. Some tags offer rewards for reporting. This data helps biologists track fish movement, growth rates, and survival, contributing to better fisheries management.
Can I fish at night in Union County?
Most Union County waters allow night fishing, though some parks close at dusk. McCalls Dam State Park permits fishing until 9 PM during summer months. Night fishing often produces excellent results for catfish and bass during summer. Always check specific regulations for your chosen location and bring appropriate lighting for safety.
Conclusion
Union County, Pennsylvania offers diverse fishing opportunities that rival any destination in the state, from the nationally recognized trout waters of Penns Creek to family-friendly McCalls Dam State Park and the hidden gems scattered throughout the county's streams and lakes. The combination of easy access, variety of species, and year-round fishing possibilities makes this central Pennsylvania county an ideal destination for anglers of all skill levels. Whether you're seeking the challenge of matching the hatch for selective wild trout, the excitement of topwater bass fishing, or simply a peaceful afternoon catching panfish with family, Union County's waters deliver consistent action in scenic surroundings.
Success in Union County waters comes from understanding seasonal patterns, respecting regulations, and adapting techniques to match conditions. The information provided in this guide gives you the foundation for productive fishing adventures, but remember that time on the water teaches lessons no guide can fully capture. Each visit reveals new insights about fish behavior, productive spots, and effective techniques. I encourage you to explore beyond the well-known locations mentioned here – Union County holds many undiscovered fishing spots waiting for adventurous anglers willing to venture off the beaten path.
As you plan your Union County fishing adventures in 2026, remember that our actions today determine the quality of fishing for future generations. Practice selective harvest, respect private property, and support conservation efforts that protect and enhance these valuable resources. Consider joining local fishing clubs or conservation organizations to connect with fellow anglers and contribute to habitat improvement projects. For those seeking more detailed information about specific waters or current conditions, check out our best fishing lakes guide for additional techniques that translate well to Pennsylvania waters, or explore our trout fishing guide for advanced fly fishing strategies applicable to Penns Creek.
The waters of Union County await, offering not just the possibility of catching fish, but the certainty of creating memories. From the excited shout of a child catching their first bluegill at McCalls Dam to the quiet satisfaction of releasing a wild brown trout back into Penns Creek's limestone-enriched flows, these experiences connect us to nature and to each other. Tight lines, and we'll see you on the water!
