York County, Pennsylvania offers some of the most diverse and productive fishing opportunities in the state. From the mighty Susquehanna River to the expansive Lake Marburg, anglers have access to over 2,500 acres of fishable waters and dozens of miles of pristine streams. Whether you're chasing trophy walleye, fighting smallmouth bass, or enjoying peaceful trout fishing, York County delivers exceptional experiences for anglers of all skill levels.
What makes York County particularly special for fishing enthusiasts is the variety of water types available within a relatively compact area. You can fish a mountain trout stream in the morning, cast for largemouth bass in a state park lake during the afternoon, and finish your day on the Susquehanna River targeting walleye. This diversity, combined with excellent public access and well-maintained facilities, makes York County a premier destination for Pennsylvania anglers.
According to the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, York County waters produced some of the state's most impressive catches in recent years, including multiple state-record-class walleye from Lake Marburg and trophy smallmouth bass from the Susquehanna River. The county's strategic location, straddling both warm water and cold water fisheries, creates unique opportunities that you won't find in many other regions.
Top 10 Fishing Locations in York County
1. Lake Marburg at Codorus State Park
Lake Marburg stands as York County's crown jewel for fishing, spanning 1,275 acres with 26 miles of shoreline. This expansive impoundment at Codorus State Park consistently ranks among Pennsylvania's top walleye fisheries, with the PA Fish and Boat Commission maintaining an aggressive stocking program that includes both fingerling and adult walleye annually.
The lake features diverse structure including deep channels reaching 42 feet, extensive weed beds, rocky points, and numerous coves that hold different species throughout the year. Spring brings excellent crappie fishing around the marina and boat launch areas, while summer sees largemouth bass congregating around docks and weed edges. Fall and winter produce some of the best walleye action, particularly when trolling the main lake basin.
Access and Amenities: Codorus State Park offers multiple boat launches, a full-service marina with boat rentals, and extensive shore fishing access. The park charges a daily or annual launch fee for boats, but shore fishing is free with park admission. Facilities include restrooms, picnic areas, and a bait shop at the marina operating seasonally from April through October.
Key Species: Walleye (excellent), Largemouth Bass (good), Crappie (excellent in spring), Yellow Perch (good), Channel Catfish (good), Northern Pike (fair)
2. Susquehanna River - York County Section
The Susquehanna River forms York County's eastern boundary and provides world-class smallmouth bass fishing that draws anglers from across the Mid-Atlantic region. The river section from Wrightsville to the Maryland line offers approximately 30 miles of productive water with numerous public access points maintained by the PA Fish and Boat Commission.
This section of the Susquehanna features classic river smallmouth habitat including rocky ledges, grass beds, current breaks behind islands, and deep pools that hold fish year-round. The river also supports healthy populations of channel catfish, walleye, and during spring runs, American shad. Recent improvements in water quality have led to expanding populations of muskellunge, providing exciting opportunities for trophy hunters.
Access Points: Major public access areas include Long Level, Blue Rock, Otter Creek, and multiple smaller launches. Most feature concrete ramps suitable for larger boats, though kayak and canoe anglers will find numerous primitive launch sites perfect for smaller watercraft. All river access points are free to use.
Key Species: Smallmouth Bass (excellent), Channel Catfish (excellent), Walleye (good), Muskellunge (fair to good), American Shad (seasonal)
3. Pinchot Lake at Gifford Pinchot State Park
Gifford Pinchot State Park's 340-acre lake provides excellent warm water fishing in a scenic setting just 15 minutes from York. The lake features a 20-horsepower motor restriction that maintains a peaceful atmosphere while still allowing boat access to productive fishing areas. Pinchot Lake receives regular stockings of channel catfish and has developed an excellent self-sustaining largemouth bass population.
The lake's relatively shallow profile (maximum depth 35 feet) creates ideal habitat for panfish and bass, with extensive lily pad fields, fallen timber, and weed beds providing year-round structure. Ice fishing enthusiasts particularly appreciate Pinchot Lake, as its protected location and moderate depth create safe ice conditions most winters.
Facilities: The park offers two boat launches, multiple fishing piers including an ADA-accessible pier, and extensive shore fishing access. Boat rentals are available seasonally, and the park store sells basic tackle and bait during summer months.
Key Species: Largemouth Bass (excellent), Bluegill (excellent), Channel Catfish (good), Crappie (good), Yellow Perch (fair)
4. Muddy Creek - Fly Fishing Area
Muddy Creek represents York County's premier wild trout fishery, with a specially regulated 6.9-mile section managed under Delayed Harvest Artificial Lures Only regulations. This limestone-influenced stream maintains cool temperatures year-round, supporting both wild brown trout and seasonal stockings of rainbow and brook trout.
The creek flows through scenic farmland and wooded areas, offering diverse fishing opportunities from tight, technical pools to open riffles and runs. Water levels remain fairly stable due to limestone springs, though the creek can become turbid after heavy rains due to agricultural runoff. The best fishing typically occurs during spring and fall when water temperatures are optimal.
Regulations: The Delayed Harvest section runs from Graybill Road downstream to the mouth. From October 1 to the Friday before Memorial Day, all trout must be released, and only artificial lures or flies may be used. After Memorial Day weekend, regular harvest rules apply with a 7-inch minimum and 5 trout daily limit.
Key Species: Brown Trout (wild and stocked), Rainbow Trout (stocked), Brook Trout (limited stocking)
5. Lake Redman and Lake Williams
These sister reservoirs owned by York Water Company have historically provided excellent fishing opportunities, though access has been restricted in recent years due to dam repairs and infrastructure work. Lake Redman (290 acres) remains open with limited access, while Lake Williams (220 acres) has intermittent closures. When fully operational, these lakes offer some of York County's best largemouth bass fishing.
Lake Redman features excellent structure including standing timber, rocky points, and deep creek channels that hold fish throughout the year. The lake's clear water requires finesse presentations, but rewards skilled anglers with quality bass and panfish. Both lakes have populations of tiger muskellunge from past stockings, creating opportunities for trophy catches.
Current Status: As of 2026, check with York Water Company for current access status and regulations. When open, both lakes require special permits available through the water company, with restrictions on boat motors and fishing hours.
Key Species: Largemouth Bass (excellent when accessible), Bluegill (good), Tiger Muskellunge (rare but present), Chain Pickerel (good)
6. Codorus Creek
Codorus Creek serves as York County's most accessible trout stream, with multiple stocked sections flowing through public parks and easily reached areas. The PA Fish and Boat Commission stocks the creek multiple times from March through May, with additional fall stockings in selected sections. The creek offers 18 miles of fishable water from its headwaters to the confluence with the Susquehanna River.
The most popular sections include the runs through Nixon County Park and John Rudy County Park, where families can enjoy easy access and park amenities while fishing. These areas receive the heaviest stocking and fishing pressure but consistently produce trout throughout the season. More adventurous anglers can explore lesser-fished sections between parks that often hold over stocked trout and occasional wild browns.
Best Sections: Nixon County Park (heavily stocked, easy access), John Rudy County Park (good access, regular stockings), Indian Rock Dam area (deeper pools, holdover potential)
Key Species: Rainbow Trout (stocked), Brown Trout (stocked and occasional wild), Brook Trout (limited stocking)
7. Sheppard-Myers Reservoir
This 135-acre water supply reservoir managed by Hanover Municipal Water Works offers limited but quality fishing opportunities when open to public access. The reservoir features excellent water quality and limited fishing pressure, creating conditions for trophy largemouth bass and abundant panfish populations.
Recent regulation changes have temporarily lifted some restrictions, though anglers should verify current access status before visiting. When open, the reservoir typically allows shore fishing only during specified hours, with special permits required. The limited access means less fishing pressure and better catch rates for those who make the effort to fish here.
Access Requirements: Special permits typically required from Hanover Municipal Water Works. Check current regulations as they change periodically based on water supply needs and infrastructure work.
Key Species: Largemouth Bass (excellent quality), Bluegill (abundant), Crappie (good in spring)
8. Lake Kiwanis
This small 7-acre impoundment in York Township Park provides excellent youth and family fishing opportunities in an urban setting. The PA Fish and Boat Commission includes Lake Kiwanis in its Urban Fishing Program, with regular stockings of channel catfish and trout creating consistent action for shore anglers.
Despite its small size, Lake Kiwanis offers surprising diversity with largemouth bass, bluegill, and even the occasional carp providing variety beyond the stocked species. The lake features a paved walking path around most of the perimeter, making it ideal for anglers with mobility limitations or families with young children.
Family Features: Playground adjacent to fishing areas, paved paths for easy access, regular stocking schedule posted at the park, no boat access keeps it safe for shore fishing
Key Species: Channel Catfish (stocked regularly), Rainbow Trout (spring stockings), Largemouth Bass (fair), Bluegill (good)
9. Opossum Lake
Managed by the PA Fish and Boat Commission, this 51-acre lake near Wrightsville offers excellent panfish opportunities with limited crowds. The lake features a selective harvest program for bass, with special regulations designed to improve the size structure of the largemouth bass population. These regulations have succeeded in producing better quality bass, though numbers may be lower than other area lakes.
The lake's shallow, weedy nature makes it ideal for types of fishing techniques like topwater presentations and weedless soft plastics. Spring and early summer provide the best action, as excessive weed growth can make fishing challenging by late summer. Ice fishing is popular here when conditions allow, with good catches of crappie and bluegill through the ice.
Special Regulations: Largemouth bass must be immediately released except for those between 12 and 18 inches, with a 2 fish daily limit in that slot. All other species follow statewide regulations.
Key Species: Bluegill (excellent), Crappie (very good), Largemouth Bass (good quality, lower numbers), Chain Pickerel (fair)
10. Oil Creek
This small limestone-influenced stream in northern York County provides surprising wild trout opportunities for those willing to explore. While not stocked by the PA Fish and Boat Commission, Oil Creek supports a population of wild brown trout in its upper reaches where springs keep water temperatures cool year-round.
Access requires permission from landowners in most sections, though a few road crossings provide limited public access. The creek fishes best with stealthy approaches and light tackle, as the wild browns are extremely wary in the clear, shallow water. Summer fishing can be challenging due to low water and warm temperatures, making spring and fall the optimal seasons.
Wild Trout Fishing: Best success with small nymphs, terrestrial patterns in summer, tiny spinners, natural drift presentations essential, catch and release recommended to preserve wild population
Key Species: Wild Brown Trout (fair to good in upper sections), Creek Chubs, Smallmouth Bass (lower sections near Susquehanna confluence)
Species-Specific Fishing Guide
Largemouth Bass
York County's numerous lakes and ponds provide excellent largemouth bass habitat, with Lake Marburg, Pinchot Lake, and Lake Redman leading the charge. Spring fishing peaks during the spawn in April and May when water temperatures reach 60-65°F. Target shallow coves, lily pads, and woody cover with soft plastic creatures, spinnerbaits, and topwater lures during this period.
Summer bass fishing requires adjusting to deeper patterns as fish seek cooler water and shade. Focus on weed edges, docks, and drop-offs during early morning and evening hours. Soft plastic worms, jigs, and deep-diving crankbaits produce consistently during hot weather. Fall brings aggressive feeding as bass prepare for winter, with lipless crankbaits and swimbaits excelling as fish chase shad schools.
Top Producers: Senko-style worms (green pumpkin, black), White spinnerbaits in spring, Texas-rigged creatures around cover, Topwater frogs in lily pads, Football jigs on deep structure
Smallmouth Bass
The Susquehanna River dominates York County's smallmouth scene, though Muddy Creek's lower section also holds bronzebacks. River smallmouth relate to current breaks, rocky structure, and grass beds throughout the season. Spring fishing excels when water temperatures reach 55-60°F, with tube jigs, grubs, and small crankbaits producing well.
Summer smallmouth fishing peaks during low water conditions when fish concentrate in deeper pools and runs. Topwater action at dawn and dusk can be explosive, with poppers and walking baits drawing aggressive strikes. For those interested in bass identification guide, note that Susquehanna smallmouth often display distinctive vertical barring and bronze coloration.
River Tactics: Tube jigs in crayfish patterns, Ned rigs for finicky fish, Spinnerbaits around grass beds, Topwater poppers at dawn/dusk, Live crayfish or hellgrammites (where legal)
Walleye
Lake Marburg stands out as York County's premier walleye destination, with consistent stockings maintaining a robust population. Spring walleye fishing begins in March as fish move shallow for spawning, with jigs tipped with minnows or nightcrawlers producing well along rocky shorelines and points.
Summer walleye fishing requires deeper presentations, with trolling crawler harnesses, deep-diving crankbaits, or vertical jigging in 20-35 feet of water. Fall and early winter often provide the best walleye fishing as fish feed aggressively before ice-up. The Susquehanna River also holds walleye, particularly in deeper pools and below dams.
Proven Methods: Trolling crawler harnesses in summer, Jigging with minnows in spring/fall, Deep-diving crankbaits over structure, Vertical jigging in winter, Live bait rigging along weed edges
Trout
York County's trout fishing centers on stocked streams like Codorus Creek and the Muddy Creek Delayed Harvest section. Opening day in early April sees the heaviest fishing pressure, but patient anglers can find success throughout the spring stocking season. Fall stockings provide excellent opportunities with fewer crowds and aggressive fish.
Muddy Creek's wild brown trout require more refined tactics, with small nymphs, dry flies, and ultralight spinners producing best. Early morning and evening fishing during summer provides the best opportunity when water temperatures are coolest. Winter fishing in the Delayed Harvest section can be productive for those willing to brave cold conditions.
Effective Approaches: PowerBait and corn for stocked trout, Small spinners (Rooster Tails, Panther Martins), Natural drift with worms or minnows, Fly fishing with nymphs and streamers, Ultra-light tackle for wild trout
Panfish
Bluegill, crappie, and yellow perch provide consistent action throughout York County's waters, with Pinchot Lake and Opossum Lake offering exceptional panfish opportunities. Spring spawning season from May through June offers the best bluegill fishing, with small jigs, worms, and crickets producing limit catches from spawning beds.
Crappie fishing peaks in early spring around structure like fallen trees, docks, and bridge pilings. Small minnows under bobbers or tiny jigs in white, chartreuse, or pink consistently produce. Ice fishing for panfish can be excellent on Pinchot Lake and smaller ponds when safe ice conditions exist.
Panfish Tactics: Wax worms or spikes through ice, Small ice jigs tipped with larvae, Live crickets for summer bluegill, Minnows under slip bobbers for crappie, Beetle spins around weed edges
Seasonal Fishing Calendar
Spring (March - May)
Spring transforms York County waters as rising temperatures trigger spawning activities and increased fish movement. March brings pre-spawn walleye action on Lake Marburg, with jigs and minnows producing along rocky structures. Trout season opens in early April, with Codorus Creek and Muddy Creek receiving multiple stockings throughout spring.
Late April through May sees largemouth bass moving shallow for spawning, creating excellent sight-fishing opportunities in clear water lakes. Crappie fishing peaks in April around shallow structure, while bluegill begin spawning in late May. The Susquehanna River's smallmouth bass become increasingly active as water temperatures rise, with excellent fishing by mid-May.
Spring Highlights: Trout opener (early April), Walleye pre-spawn (March), Bass spawning (late April-May), Crappie around structure (April), Shad run on Susquehanna (April-May)
Summer (June - August)
Summer fishing requires early morning and evening efforts as midday heat drives fish deep. Lake Marburg's thermocline forms by June, concentrating walleye and bass at specific depths. Topwater bass fishing excels at dawn and dusk on all area lakes, while the Susquehanna River provides consistent smallmouth action for those willing to wade or float.
Channel catfish become very active in summer, with Lake Marburg, Pinchot Lake, and the Susquehanna River offering excellent opportunities. Night fishing for catfish using cut bait, chicken liver, or prepared baits can produce impressive catches. Panfish remain active around weed beds and docks throughout summer.
Summer Patterns: Early morning topwater action, Deep structure for midday bass, Night fishing for catfish, River smallmouth in current, Panfish around shallow cover
Fall (September - November)
Fall fishing ranks among the year's best as cooling water temperatures trigger aggressive feeding. September sees excellent bass fishing as fish chase shad schools in open water. October brings peak walleye fishing on Lake Marburg, with trolling and vertical jigging producing trophy fish. Fall trout stockings refresh stream fishing opportunities with less pressure than spring.
The Susquehanna River's smallmouth fishing peaks in October as fish feed heavily before winter. Crappie school up in deeper water around structure, making them easier to target. Late fall provides excellent pike and pickerel fishing in weedy areas as these predators become more active in cooling water.
Fall Opportunities: Trophy walleye on Lake Marburg, Schooling bass chasing shad, Fall trout stockings, River smallmouth feeding heavily, Crappie schools in deep structure
Winter (December - February)
Winter fishing in York County focuses on tailwater areas below dams, deep lake structures, and ice fishing when conditions permit. Lake Marburg's walleye remain catchable through winter with slow presentations near bottom. The Muddy Creek Delayed Harvest section fishes well on mild winter days, with small nymphs and midges producing.
Ice fishing occurs sporadically based on weather conditions, with Pinchot Lake, Opossum Lake, and smaller ponds providing the safest ice. Target panfish and yellow perch with small jigs tipped with waxworms or spikes. Always verify ice thickness before venturing out, with 4 inches of clear ice minimum for safe fishing.
Winter Tactics: Slow presentations for lethargic fish, Deep vertical jigging for walleye, Ice fishing for panfish (when safe), Delayed Harvest trout areas, Warm water discharge areas
Fishing Regulations and Licensing
License Requirements
Pennsylvania requires all anglers 16 years and older to possess a valid fishing license. Basic fishing licenses cost $22.90 for Pennsylvania residents and $52.90 for non-residents as of 2026. A trout stamp ($9.90) is required to fish for or possess trout. Licenses can be purchased online through the PA Fish and Boat Commission website, at county treasurer offices, or at numerous sporting goods stores throughout York County.
Senior residents (65+) can purchase a discounted annual license for $11.90, while seniors 65+ can obtain a lifetime license for $51.90. Youth under 16 fish free but must follow all regulations. Active military can purchase resident licenses regardless of home state. Three-day tourist licenses are available for $26.90, perfect for visiting anglers.
Additional Permits: Lake Marburg boat launch permit (daily or seasonal), Trout stamp for trout fishing ($9.90), Lake Williams/Redman permits (when required), State Park launch permits for motorboats
General Regulations
Pennsylvania's statewide regulations apply to most York County waters unless specifically designated otherwise. The general trout season runs from 8 a.m. on the opening day in early April through Labor Day, with an extended season through February on approved waters. The daily limit is 5 trout with a 7-inch minimum size.
Bass season (largemouth and smallmouth) runs year-round, with catch and release only from mid-April through mid-June during spawning season. From mid-June through April, anglers may harvest 6 bass daily with a 12-inch minimum on most waters. Walleye regulations allow 6 daily with an 18-inch minimum on Lake Marburg and the Susquehanna River.
Statewide Limits: Trout: 5 daily, 7-inch minimum (varies by water), Bass: 6 daily, 12-inch minimum (15-inch on rivers), Walleye: 6 daily, 18-inch minimum, Catfish: 25 combined species daily, Panfish: 50 combined species daily
Special Regulation Waters
Several York County waters feature special regulations designed to improve fishing quality. Muddy Creek's Delayed Harvest section requires catch and release with artificial lures only from October 1 through the Friday before Memorial Day. After Memorial Day weekend, regular harvest rules apply.
Opossum Lake has selective harvest regulations for largemouth bass, where only fish between 12 and 18 inches may be kept, with a 2 fish daily limit. All bass under 12 inches or over 18 inches must be immediately released. These regulations aim to improve the size structure of the bass population.
Special Regulations Summary: Muddy Creek: Delayed Harvest Artificial Lures Only, Opossum Lake: Bass slot limit 12-18 inches, Big Bass Program waters: Voluntary catch and release encouraged, Electric motors only: Some small lakes and ponds, Seasonal closures: Check specific water supply reservoirs
Access Points and Amenities
Boat Launches
York County offers numerous public boat launches ranging from full-service marinas to primitive hand-launch sites. Lake Marburg features multiple concrete ramps capable of handling large boats, with the main launch near the marina offering the best facilities including parking for 100+ vehicles and trailers. Seasonal launch fees apply at state parks.
The Susquehanna River has several PA Fish and Boat Commission launches including Long Level (excellent facilities, large parking area), Blue Rock (good ramp, limited parking), and Otter Creek (primitive launch, small boat friendly). All river launches are free to use and open 24/7 unless posted otherwise.
Major Launch Facilities: Lake Marburg Marina: Full service, boat rentals, store, Pinchot Lake: Two ramps, seasonal fees apply, Long Level River Access: Large ramp, ample parking, free, Opossum Lake: Hand launch only, limited parking, Muddy Creek: Multiple roadside access points
Shore Fishing Access
Extensive shore fishing opportunities exist throughout York County, with state parks providing the most developed access. Codorus State Park offers miles of shoreline access around Lake Marburg, including several fishing piers and designated shore fishing areas with parking nearby. Gifford Pinchot State Park features an ADA-accessible fishing pier and numerous shore fishing spots.
County parks like Nixon Park and John Rudy Park provide excellent shore access to stocked trout streams with paved paths and easy terrain. Urban fishing spots like Lake Kiwanis offer completely paved access perfect for families and anglers with mobility challenges. Most shore fishing areas are free to access, though state park entrance fees may apply.
Best Shore Fishing Spots: Codorus State Park: Multiple piers and shore access, Pinchot Lake: ADA pier, extensive shoreline, Nixon County Park: Easy stream access, Lake Kiwanis: Paved paths, urban setting, Susquehanna River parks: Multiple access points
Parking and Facilities
Parking availability varies significantly between locations, with state parks generally offering the most extensive facilities. Lake Marburg provides multiple parking areas with restrooms, picnic facilities, and seasonal concessions. Gifford Pinchot State Park offers similar amenities with the addition of swimming beaches and camping facilities for extended fishing trips.
River access points typically have more limited facilities, with most offering just parking and perhaps a portable toilet during peak season. Urban fishing locations like Lake Kiwanis provide convenient parking but may fill quickly on weekends. Winter anglers should note that some parking areas may not be plowed after snow events.
Facility Highlights: State Parks: Full facilities including restrooms and food, County Parks: Basic facilities, usually restrooms, River Access: Limited facilities, parking varies, Urban Lakes: Convenient but limited parking, Private lakes: Restrictions and permits required
Local Fishing Tips and Techniques
Seasonal Strategies
Success in York County waters often depends on adapting to seasonal patterns unique to south-central Pennsylvania. Spring cold fronts can shut down fishing temporarily, but warming trends trigger explosive action. Watch for water temperatures reaching key thresholds: 50°F for bass becoming active, 60°F for spawning activity, and 70°F+ for summer patterns.
Local anglers know that York County's agricultural runoff creates turbid water after rain, particularly in streams like Codorus Creek. Fish these waters 2-3 days after rain when clarity improves but flows remain elevated. Lake Marburg and Pinchot Lake clear more slowly but offer protected coves that clear first and concentrate fish.
Weather Patterns: Fish ahead of cold fronts for best action, Cloudy days excel for topwater fishing, Post-rain fishing improves after 48 hours, Wind-blown shorelines concentrate baitfish, Stable weather periods produce consistent catches
Local Bait and Tackle
York County bait shops stock regional favorites that consistently produce. Live minnows from local suppliers work better than imported baits for walleye and crappie. Nightcrawlers remain the universal bait, with Canadian crawlers performing well during hot weather. Local creek chubs make excellent pike and bass bait where legal.
Soft plastic colors that excel in York County include green pumpkin, watermelon red, and black/blue combinations for stained water. The Susquehanna River's smallmouth prefer natural crayfish patterns, while lake largemouth respond to brighter colors in murky water. Stock up on 1/8 to 3/8 ounce jigheads for versatile presentations.
Must-Have Tackle: Beetle Spins for panfish (white, yellow, black), Rooster Tail spinners for trout (#1-3), Senko worms for bass (5-inch, natural colors), Jigs for walleye (1/4-3/8 oz, chartreuse/orange), Crankbaits matching local shad (2-6 feet diving depth)
Electronics and Equipment
Modern electronics significantly improve success on York County's larger waters. Lake Marburg's deep basin and extensive structure make a quality fish finder essential for locating walleye and suspended crappie. Side-imaging sonar helps identify weed edges and submerged timber that hold bass. Mark waypoints for productive spots as seasonal patterns repeat annually.
The Susquehanna River's varying depths and rocky structure can be treacherous for lower units, making a shallow water anchor or Power-Pole valuable for boat positioning. Kayak anglers find success with portable fish finders that help locate river channels and depth changes. GPS mapping helps navigate Lake Marburg's numerous coves and points efficiently.
Recommended Equipment: Fish finder with GPS for lake navigation, Shallow water anchor for river fishing, Landing net for catch and release, Polarized sunglasses for sight fishing, Waders for stream and river access
Conservation and Best Practices
Catch and Release Guidelines
Practicing selective harvest ensures York County waters remain productive for future generations. Consider releasing larger breeding-size bass, walleye, and muskellunge that contribute most to spawning success. Keep medium-sized fish for the table while releasing trophies and juveniles. Use barbless hooks or crimp barbs to facilitate easy release with minimal handling.
Water temperature plays a crucial role in release survival. Avoid targeting trout when water temperatures exceed 70°F, as mortality rates increase dramatically. Keep fish in the water while unhooking, support their weight horizontally for photos, and revive exhausted fish by holding them facing into current until they swim away strongly.
Release Best Practices: Use appropriate tackle to minimize fight time, Keep fish wet during handling, Remove hooks quickly with proper tools, Revive fish before release in current, Consider keeping common species, releasing trophies
Environmental Considerations
York County's waters face challenges from agricultural runoff, development pressure, and climate change. Anglers can help by properly disposing of fishing line, picking up litter, and reporting pollution or fish kills to the PA Fish and Boat Commission. Avoid fishing near spawning areas during critical periods, particularly for bass in spring and trout in fall.
Invasive species threaten native fish populations and aquatic ecosystems. Never transport live baitfish between waters, clean boats and equipment between launches, and report unusual species catches to authorities. Learn to identify and properly handle species like northern snakehead and flathead catfish that may appear in York County waters.
Conservation Actions: Pack out all trash including fishing line, Report environmental violations to authorities, Avoid disturbing spawning areas, Clean equipment to prevent spreading invasives, Support local conservation organizations
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a trout stamp to fish for bass in a stocked trout stream?
No, you only need a trout stamp if you intend to fish for or possess trout. If you're targeting bass or other species in a water that happens to be stocked with trout, you can fish without a trout stamp as long as you immediately release any trout you accidentally catch. However, if you want the option to keep trout or specifically target them, you'll need the stamp.
When is the best time to fish Lake Marburg for walleye?
Lake Marburg produces walleye year-round, but the best periods are March through May and October through December. Spring pre-spawn fish move shallow and bite aggressively, while fall walleye feed heavily in preparation for winter. Early morning and evening hours produce best during summer, while winter requires slow, deep presentations during midday warming periods.
Can I use live bait in the Muddy Creek Delayed Harvest section?
No, from October 1 through the Friday before Memorial Day, only artificial lures and flies may be used in the Delayed Harvest section. This includes no live bait, scented baits, or bait eggs. After Memorial Day weekend through September 30, you may use any legal bait, and regular harvest rules apply with a 7-inch minimum and 5 trout daily limit.
Are there any free fishing days in Pennsylvania?
Yes, Pennsylvania typically designates two free fishing days annually, usually one during Memorial Day weekend and another in early July. On these days, anyone can fish without a license, though all other regulations still apply. These days offer perfect opportunities for newcomers to try fishing or for families to introduce children to the sport without license costs.
What's the difference between Lake Williams and Lake Redman access?
Both lakes are owned by York Water Company and require special permits when open. Access status changes based on infrastructure work and water supply needs. Lake Redman has remained more consistently open in recent years, while Lake Williams has faced extended closures for dam repairs. Always check current status with York Water Company before planning a trip, as regulations and access can change quickly.
Where can I find current trout stocking schedules?
The PA Fish and Boat Commission publishes trout stocking schedules on their website, typically releasing the schedule in late February or early March. York County streams are usually stocked several times between March and May, with some waters receiving fall stockings. Local tackle shops often post schedules, and you can sign up for email notifications for specific waters.
Is ice fishing safe on York County lakes?
Ice fishing safety depends entirely on conditions, which vary significantly year to year in York County's moderate climate. Pinchot Lake and Opossum Lake typically offer the safest ice when conditions permit, but always verify ice thickness yourself. Never trust ice less than 4 inches thick, avoid areas near inflows/outflows, and never fish alone. Many winters don't produce safe ice conditions at all.
Can I fish at night in York County?
Most public waters in York County allow 24-hour fishing access, including the Susquehanna River, Lake Marburg, and most streams. However, some locations have specific hours, particularly water supply reservoirs and certain county parks that close at dusk. State parks remain open for fishing outside normal hours, though other facilities may be closed. Always check specific regulations for your chosen location.
What should I do if I catch a tagged fish?
Report tagged fish to the PA Fish and Boat Commission using the contact information on the tag or through their website. Record the tag number, date, location, species, and size of the fish. You may keep the fish if it's legal, but report the tag information first. The Commission uses tagging studies to monitor fish populations, movement patterns, and survival rates, making your report valuable for fisheries management.
Are there any fishing guides or charters available in York County?
Several professional guides operate on the Susquehanna River offering smallmouth bass trips, particularly from Wrightsville to Safe Harbor. Some guides also offer Lake Marburg walleye trips and seasonal striper fishing on Lake Raystown (though outside York County). Local tackle shops can provide current guide recommendations, and many guides now offer kayak fishing instruction for those wanting to learn river techniques safely.
Conclusion
York County's diverse fishing opportunities truly offer something for every angler, from pristine wild trout streams to trophy walleye waters. The combination of well-managed public waters, excellent access, and variety of species makes this region a hidden gem in Pennsylvania's fishing landscape. Whether you prefer the solitude of a limestone creek, the excitement of river smallmouth, or the consistency of stocked community lakes, York County delivers year-round fishing adventures.
Success in these waters comes from understanding seasonal patterns, adapting to conditions, and respecting the resource through conservation-minded practices. Take time to explore beyond the popular spots, as York County still holds secret holes and overlooked waters that receive minimal pressure. Support local tackle shops, follow regulations carefully, and consider joining conservation organizations that protect these valuable resources.
For those willing to put in the effort to learn these waters, York County rewards with memorable catches and beautiful settings that remind us why we fish. From the first cast of spring trout season to the last ice fishing adventure of winter, these waters provide not just fish, but experiences that create lasting memories. So grab your gear, check those regulations, and discover your own favorite spot among York County's exceptional fishing destinations. After all, as any local angler will tell you with fishing humor, the worst day fishing in York County still beats the best day at work!
