After spending countless weekends exploring the waters of Luzerne County, I can tell you this northeastern Pennsylvania gem offers some of the most diverse fishing opportunities in the state. From the mighty Susquehanna River cutting through the valley to pristine mountain streams tucked away in state parks, we've discovered spots that satisfy every type of angler.
Luzerne County boasts over 130 streams and 90 small lakes, creating a fishing paradise that many overlook in favor of more famous Pennsylvania destinations. Our team has fished these waters year-round, tracking seasonal patterns, testing different techniques, and building relationships with local guides who've shared their decades of knowledge. What we found surprised us - this county offers world-class smallmouth bass fishing, exceptional trout waters, and the largest natural lake in Pennsylvania by volume.
The fishing here changes dramatically with the seasons. Spring brings eager trout in freshly stocked streams, summer offers excellent bass action on the river, fall produces trophy walleye, and winter transforms frozen lakes into ice fishing hotspots. We've compiled this guide after fishing these waters through all four seasons, documenting access points, recording GPS coordinates where possible, and noting which techniques work best at each location.
Top 12 Fishing Spots in Luzerne County
1. Susquehanna River - West Pittston to Shickshinny Stretch
The Susquehanna River through Luzerne County provides 50 miles of exceptional smallmouth bass fishing that rivals any river in the country. We consistently catch bass in the 2-4 pound range here, with several 5-pounders landed each season. The stretch from West Pittston down to Shickshinny offers the most productive fishing, with numerous public access points making it easy to find your spot.
Access the river at Nesbitt Park in Wilkes-Barre for excellent wade fishing opportunities. The rocky bottom and moderate current create perfect smallmouth habitat. During summer months, we target bass early in the morning using topwater poppers and walking baits. As the sun rises, switch to tube jigs in green pumpkin or crayfish patterns bounced along the bottom. The area near the Market Street Bridge consistently produces fish, especially where the current breaks around the bridge pilings.
Beyond bass, the Susquehanna holds impressive channel catfish, with fish over 10 pounds caught regularly. Night fishing with cut bait or chicken liver near deeper holes produces the best results. Walleye fishing peaks in fall, particularly in the Shickshinny area where the river deepens. Local guides recommend trolling crankbaits or drifting nightcrawler harnesses through the deeper channels.
2. Harvey's Lake - Pennsylvania's Largest Natural Lake
Harvey's Lake spans 658 acres and reaches depths of 100 feet, making it the largest natural lake by volume in Pennsylvania. This glacial lake supports a diverse fishery including largemouth bass, pickerel, yellow perch, and even some surprising catches like lake trout. The clear water requires finesse techniques, but patient anglers find excellent fishing year-round.
The public boat launch at Sunset provides easy access to the entire lake. Early morning bass fishing along the weed edges produces consistent results using spinnerbaits or soft plastic worms. The northern end near Sandy Beach holds good numbers of largemouth bass in the 2-3 pound range. During summer, fish the deeper weed lines in 15-20 feet of water. Drop shot rigs with 4-inch finesse worms work exceptionally well in these clear waters.
Ice fishing on Harvey's Lake ranks among the best in the region. The lake typically freezes by late December, providing safe ice through February. Yellow perch school up in 25-35 feet of water, readily biting small jigs tipped with waxworms or spikes. We've had days where we caught over 50 perch, with many measuring 10-12 inches. The area off Warden Place consistently produces during ice season.
3. Frances Slocum State Park Lake
This 165-acre impoundment at Frances Slocum State Park offers excellent warm-water fishing just minutes from Wilkes-Barre. The lake maintains healthy populations of largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and catfish. Electric motors only regulations keep the water peaceful and the fish less pressured than other area lakes.
The dam area provides the deepest water at around 25 feet, attracting suspended crappie during summer months. We use slip bobbers with small minnows or 1/32 oz jigs in white or chartreuse to target these schools. The crappie here average 10 inches, with some slabs pushing 14 inches caught each spring. Focus on submerged timber and brush piles that the state fish commission has placed throughout the lake.
Spring offers outstanding bass fishing as fish move shallow to spawn. The coves on the eastern shore warm first, attracting spawning bass by late April. Sight fishing with weightless soft plastics produces exciting action. After the spawn, target the lily pad fields with hollow-body frogs or weedless spoons. The lake also holds surprising numbers of channel catfish - we've caught several over 8 pounds fishing nightcrawlers on the bottom near the boat launch area.
4. Lake Jean at Ricketts Glen State Park
Lake Jean covers 245 acres within Ricketts Glen State Park, offering a scenic mountain fishing experience. The lake sits at 2,200 feet elevation, keeping water temperatures cool even during summer. This creates ideal conditions for the stocked trout that thrive here alongside warm-water species.
Trout fishing peaks immediately after ice-out in early April when the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission stocks the lake. PowerBait fished off the bottom near the beach area produces limits of rainbow trout. We've found orange and chartreuse colors work best in the slightly stained water. Trolling small spoons or spinners along the drop-offs also produces consistent catches throughout the season.
The lake supports a surprisingly good bass fishery that many anglers overlook. Largemouth bass congregate around the fallen timber along the western shore. Texas-rigged plastic worms in dark colors work well in these areas. The northern end features extensive lily pad fields that hold bass throughout summer. Work the edges with buzzbaits early in the morning for explosive topwater strikes.
5. Lehigh River - White Haven to Jim Thorpe Section
The Lehigh River flowing through southern Luzerne County offers some of the most spectacular trout fishing in Pennsylvania. This section maintains cold water temperatures year-round thanks to bottom-release water from Francis E. Walter Dam. The state stocks this section heavily with rainbow and brown trout, while wild brook trout inhabit the tributary streams.
Access the river at Lehigh Gorge State Park in White Haven for miles of excellent fishing. The pocket water and deep runs hold trout throughout the season. Nymphing with stonefly and caddis patterns produces consistent catches. During summer evenings, spectacular caddis hatches bring trout to the surface. Size 14-16 elk hair caddis patterns match the hatch perfectly. The catch-and-release section below the dam holds some trophy brown trout exceeding 20 inches.
Wade fishing requires caution as the river bottom consists of slippery rocks and strong currents. Felt-soled or studded wading boots provide essential traction. The railroad trail paralleling the river offers easy walking access to numerous fishing spots. Focus on the deeper pools during summer when water temperatures rise. Early morning and evening provide the best fishing during warm weather.
6. Lily Lake - Luzerne County's Hidden Gem
Lily Lake remains one of Luzerne County's best-kept fishing secrets. This 165-acre natural lake near Bear Creek offers excellent panfish and bass fishing without the crowds found at more popular destinations. The lake features extensive weed beds, lily pads, and fallen timber creating ideal fish habitat.
Bluegill fishing here ranks among the best in the county. During the spawn in late May through June, bluegills bed in the shallow coves. Small jigs tipped with waxworms or pieces of nightcrawler produce non-stop action. We regularly catch bluegills over 8 inches, with some pushing 10 inches. The kids love this spot because the action stays consistent throughout the day.
Largemouth bass cruise the weed edges hunting bluegill and small perch. Wacky-rigged Senko-style baits slowly falling along the weed lines trigger strikes from quality bass. The lake also holds good numbers of pickerel that aggressively attack spinnerbaits and inline spinners. Winter ice fishing produces excellent catches of perch and bluegill. The lake typically has safe ice by early January.
7. Moon Lake - County Park Excellence
Moon Lake County Park encompasses 650 acres with a 50-acre lake that provides family-friendly fishing opportunities. The park maintains excellent facilities including a fishing pier, boat rental, and easy shore access around most of the lake. This makes it perfect for introducing kids to fishing or enjoying a relaxing day on the water.
The lake receives regular stockings of trout in spring and fall, creating exciting fishing immediately after stocking days. Check the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission website for stocking schedules. Fishing from the pier with PowerBait or small spinners produces quick limits. The trout here average 11-13 inches with occasional larger fish mixed in.
Warm-water species thrive here too. Largemouth bass patrol the shoreline structure, particularly around the boat docks and fallen trees. Soft plastic creature baits in natural colors work well. The lake holds surprising numbers of crappie that school up near the dam during fall. Small tube jigs in white or chartreuse suspended under slip bobbers catch these tasty panfish consistently.
8. Nescopeck Creek - Wild Trout Waters
Nescopeck Creek flows for 35 miles through Luzerne County, offering miles of wild trout water. The upper sections near Honey Hole and Jeddo hold native brook trout in pristine mountain settings. These wild fish require stealth and proper presentation, but the beautiful surroundings and eager brookies make the effort worthwhile.
Access the creek at Nescopeck State Park for the most convenient fishing. This section holds both wild and stocked trout. Small spinners like Panther Martins or Rooster Tails in size 0 or 1 work excellent in the deeper pools. For fly fishing, try size 14-16 Adams or Elk Hair Caddis patterns. The creek fishes best after spring rains raise water levels slightly.
The lower sections near the town of Nescopeck warm during summer but hold smallmouth bass and rock bass. Ultra-light tackle with small tubes or 3-inch plastic worms produces fun fishing for these scrappy fighters. Fall brings excellent fishing as water temperatures cool and fish become more active before winter.
9. Huntsville Reservoir
Huntsville Reservoir covers 150 acres in the northern part of Luzerne County. This water supply reservoir allows fishing but restricts gasoline motors, creating a peaceful fishing environment. The deep, clear water holds excellent populations of bass, walleye, and panfish that see less fishing pressure than other area lakes.
Walleye fishing peaks during spring and fall when fish move shallow. Trolling worm harnesses or casting jig and minnow combinations along the rocky points produces best. We've caught walleye up to 6 pounds here, with most fish averaging 16-20 inches. Night fishing during summer using slip bobbers and leeches catches walleye suspended over deeper water.
The reservoir supports a healthy largemouth bass population with fish regularly exceeding 4 pounds. Deep-diving crankbaits work well along the dam face where bass suspend near the thermocline during summer. In spring, fish the shallow coves with spinnerbaits or soft plastic swimbaits. The north end features extensive shallow flats that warm quickly in spring, attracting spawning bass and panfish.
10. Lackawanna River - Old Forge to Duryea
The Lackawanna River recovered remarkably from its industrial past, now supporting excellent smallmouth bass and trout fishing. The section flowing through Luzerne County from Old Forge to Duryea offers easy wading and consistent fishing for multiple species. Recent habitat improvements created deeper pools and better flow patterns.
Smallmouth bass thrive in the rocky runs and deeper pools. Tube jigs, small crankbaits, and inline spinners all produce well. We've caught numerous bass in the 12-15 inch range with occasional fish exceeding 18 inches. The river also holds surprising numbers of rock bass that eagerly hit small jigs or live bait.
The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission stocks trout in spring and fall, providing excellent opportunities close to urban areas. The stocked trout join holdover fish from previous years, with some brown trout reaching impressive sizes. Focus on deeper pools during summer when water temperatures rise. Early morning offers the best summer trout fishing using small spinners or live nightcrawlers drifted through the pools.
11. Crystal Lake
Crystal Lake near Hazelton covers 85 acres and lives up to its name with remarkably clear water. The lake reaches depths of 35 feet, staying cool enough to support trout year-round. This creates unique fishing opportunities for both cold and warm-water species in the same lake.
Rainbow trout stocked each spring often survive through summer in the deeper waters. Trolling small spoons or downrigging with dodgers and squid produces trout during warm months when they seek cooler deep water. We've caught holdover rainbows exceeding 18 inches that fought like wild fish after spending months in the lake.
Largemouth bass fishing excels here despite the clear water challenges. Light line and natural presentations become essential. Drop shotting with 4-inch finesse worms in natural colors produces when other techniques fail. The weed beds in 8-12 feet of water hold bass throughout summer. Work these areas slowly and thoroughly for best results.
12. Susquehanna River - Plymouth to Tunkhannock
The upper section of the Susquehanna River in Luzerne County from Plymouth to Tunkhannock offers outstanding fishing with less pressure than downstream areas. This section features numerous islands, deep channels, and gravel bars creating diverse habitat for multiple species. The river here averages 3-5 feet deep with deeper holes exceeding 15 feet.
Smallmouth bass fishing reaches its peak during early summer when fish feed aggressively after spawning. Topwater lures at dawn produce heart-stopping strikes. As the day progresses, switch to soft plastic crayfish imitations or tube jigs. The area around Harding has exceptional smallmouth habitat with rocky bottoms and moderate current. We consistently catch quality bass here using various fishing techniques adapted to water conditions.
This section also produces excellent musky fishing that many anglers don't realize exists. Pennsylvania stocks muskellunge in the river, with fish exceeding 40 inches caught annually. Large inline spinners, jerkbaits, and live suckers produce strikes from these apex predators. Focus on deeper pools near islands and areas where tributaries enter the main river. October and November offer prime musky fishing as water temperatures cool.
Seasonal Fishing Calendar for Luzerne County
Spring (March - May)
Spring transforms Luzerne County waters as fish become active after winter. March brings the first trout stockings, with opening day in early April creating excitement throughout the county. Focus on stocked streams and lakes immediately after stocking for easy limits. As water temperatures reach the mid-50s, bass move shallow to spawn. This creates excellent sight-fishing opportunities in protected coves and shallow flats.
Crappie fishing peaks in April and May as schools move shallow to spawn around submerged timber and brush. The Susquehanna River smallmouth bass fishing improves dramatically by mid-May. Target pre-spawn fish with jerkbaits and tube jigs in 5-10 feet of water near spawning areas.
Summer (June - August)
Summer brings consistent fishing across all species. Early morning and evening provide best results as fish avoid midday heat. Bass fishing excels using topwater lures at dawn and dusk. During the day, fish deeper structure with soft plastics or crankbaits. Trout retreat to spring-fed streams and deeper lakes where water stays cool.
The Susquehanna River provides outstanding smallmouth action all summer. Wade fishing during low water periods allows access to normally unreachable spots. Night fishing for catfish peaks during summer with channel cats and bullheads active after dark. Harvey's Lake and Frances Slocum produce excellent panfish action for family fishing trips.
Fall (September - November)
Fall fishing often provides the year's best action as fish feed heavily before winter. Walleye become increasingly active in area lakes, moving shallow during low-light periods. Musky fishing on the Susquehanna peaks as water temperatures drop into the 50s. Fall trout stockings rejuvenate stream fishing with fresh fish eager to bite.
Bass fishing remains excellent through October using jerkbaits and soft plastics around remaining vegetation. As water temperatures drop, fish slow-moving presentations in deeper water. Crappie school up in deeper water near structure, providing consistent action for anglers who locate these schools.
Winter (December - February)
Ice fishing dominates winter fishing in Luzerne County. Harvey's Lake, Crystal Lake, and Lily Lake typically develop safe ice by late December. Yellow perch, bluegill, and crappie provide steady action through the ice. Small jigs tipped with waxworms or spikes work best. Always check ice thickness before venturing out - 4 inches minimum for walking, 8 inches for ATVs.
Open water exists on the Susquehanna River and some spring-fed streams. Winter trout fishing can be excellent in streams that maintain flow. Small nymphs and egg patterns produce in cold water. The Lehigh River below Francis E. Walter Dam maintains fishable temperatures year-round.
Essential Fishing Techniques for Luzerne County Waters
Success in Luzerne County requires adapting techniques to diverse water types. River smallmouth respond best to presentations matching the current crayfish and baitfish populations. During spring, crayfish molt making soft plastic crayfish imitations deadly effective. Summer calls for topwater action at dawn and dusk, with tubes and drop shots producing during bright conditions.
Lake fishing demands understanding seasonal patterns. Spring finds fish shallow, summer pushes them deep, fall brings them to mid-depths, and winter concentrates them near bottom structure. Electronics help locate fish quickly in larger lakes. Match your presentation speed to water temperature - slower in cold water, faster as temperatures rise.
Trout fishing varies between wild and stocked fish. Wild trout in streams like upper Nescopeck Creek require stealth and precise presentations. Light leaders, small offerings, and careful wading produce more fish. Stocked trout in lakes respond to garlic-scented PowerBait, inline spinners, and small spoons. Recently stocked fish bite aggressively while holdovers become increasingly selective.
Licensing Requirements and Regulations
Pennsylvania requires fishing licenses for anyone 16 years or older. Licenses must be signed in ink and displayed while fishing. You can purchase licenses online through the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission website or at numerous retailers throughout Luzerne County. A general fishing license covers most species, but trout fishing requires an additional trout stamp.
Specific regulations apply to different waters. The Lehigh River includes special regulation sections with specific tackle and harvest restrictions. Some lakes prohibit gas motors or restrict horsepower. Always check current regulations before fishing new water. The Fish and Boat Commission website provides updated regulations and any emergency closures.
Size and creel limits vary by species and water body. Most lakes follow statewide regulations, but special regulations apply to certain waters. For example, some trout waters have delayed harvest regulations allowing catch-and-release only until June 15. Understanding these regulations ensures legal and ethical fishing while protecting resources for future generations.
Local Resources and Contacts
Five Mountain Outfitters Company in Shickshinny specializes in Susquehanna River fishing. They offer guided trips, kayak rentals, and local knowledge accumulated over decades. Their guides know every productive spot on the river and match techniques to current conditions. Contact them for updated river conditions and recent fishing reports.
The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission Northeast Regional Office (570-477-5717) provides licensing, stocking schedules, and regulation information. They also offer educational programs and fishing workshops throughout the year. Their website features interactive maps showing public access points and fish stocking locations.
Local bait shops provide invaluable current fishing reports. Coal Creek Sports in Wilkes-Barre and Dunkelberger's Sports Outfitter in Stroudsburg stay connected with local anglers and know what's biting where. They stock region-specific tackle and live bait that produces in local waters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a special permit to fish in Luzerne County state parks?
No special county permits are required beyond your Pennsylvania fishing license. State parks follow Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission regulations. Some parks charge entrance fees during summer months, but these aren't fishing-specific charges.
What's the best time of year to fish the Susquehanna River for smallmouth bass?
May through October provides excellent smallmouth fishing, with May and September typically producing the largest fish. Early summer offers consistent action with good numbers, while fall produces trophy potential as bass feed heavily before winter.
Are there any waters in Luzerne County that allow year-round trout fishing?
Yes, several waters have extended or year-round trout seasons. The Lehigh River below Francis E. Walter Dam maintains cold temperatures supporting year-round trout fishing. Check current regulations as these designations occasionally change.
Where can I take kids for their first fishing experience in Luzerne County?
Moon Lake County Park and Frances Slocum State Park offer excellent family fishing with easy access, fishing piers, and consistent panfish action. Both locations have facilities, parking, and shore fishing opportunities perfect for young anglers.
What's the typical ice fishing season in Luzerne County?
Ice fishing typically runs from late December through February, depending on weather conditions. Harvey's Lake, Crystal Lake, and Lily Lake usually develop safe ice first. Always check ice thickness and conditions before venturing out.
Are there any trophy fish opportunities in Luzerne County?
Absolutely. The Susquehanna River produces trophy smallmouth bass and occasional muskies over 40 inches. Harvey's Lake holds large pickerel and surprising lake trout. The Lehigh River contains trophy brown trout in special regulation areas.
What live bait works best for different species in the county?
Nightcrawlers work universally for trout, bass, and panfish. Minnows excel for crappie, walleye, and pickerel. Crayfish produce big smallmouth bass and catfish. Waxworms and maggots work perfectly for ice fishing and panfish year-round.
Can I use a boat on all Luzerne County lakes?
Most lakes allow boats, but restrictions vary. Frances Slocum and Huntsville Reservoir restrict gas motors to electric only. Some water supply reservoirs prohibit boats entirely. Check specific regulations for each water body before launching.
Conservation and Best Practices
Practicing catch-and-release helps maintain healthy fish populations for future generations. Handle fish minimally with wet hands, remove hooks quickly, and release fish in the same area where caught. Consider keeping only what you'll eat and releasing the rest, especially large breeding-size fish that contribute most to reproduction.
Respect private property and use only designated access points. Many landowners allow fishing access if you ask permission and respect their property. Pack out all trash, including fishing line that can entangle wildlife. Leave areas cleaner than you found them to maintain positive relationships with landowners and preserve access for all anglers.
Follow seasonal restrictions designed to protect spawning fish. Avoid targeting bass on beds during spawn unless practicing immediate catch-and-release. Give spawning areas wide berth when wading to avoid disturbing eggs or fry. These conservation practices ensure sustainable fishing for years to come.
Conclusion
Luzerne County offers exceptional fishing diversity that rivals anywhere in Pennsylvania. From the powerful Susquehanna River smallmouth to pristine mountain brook trout, these waters provide year-round opportunities for every skill level and interest. We've spent years exploring these waters, and they continue to surprise us with their productivity and beauty.
The key to success lies in understanding seasonal patterns, matching techniques to conditions, and respecting the resource through conservation. Whether you're introducing a child to fishing at Moon Lake, pursuing trophy smallmouth on the Susquehanna, or enjoying solitude on a mountain trout stream, Luzerne County delivers memorable fishing experiences.
Take time to explore these waters throughout the seasons. Each offers unique characteristics and opportunities that change with weather, water levels, and time of year. Build relationships with local shops and guides who provide invaluable knowledge. Most importantly, enjoy the beautiful settings these waters provide while creating your own fishing memories in Luzerne County.
