Just 30 miles northeast of Pittsburgh, Armstrong County offers some of Pennsylvania's most diverse and productive fishing waters. With over 109 lakes, rivers, and fishing spots throughout the county, anglers have access to everything from trophy muskie waters to peaceful trout streams. The Allegheny River, recently designated as Pennsylvania's 2024 River of the Year, flows through the heart of the county, providing exceptional multi-species fishing opportunities.
I've spent countless hours exploring these waters, and what makes Armstrong County special is the combination of accessibility and diversity. You can catch 47 different fish species in the Allegheny River alone, while the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers-managed Crooked Creek Lake offers excellent bass and walleye fishing with modern facilities. Whether you're after spring trout, summer bass, fall muskie, or even winter ice fishing, Armstrong County delivers year-round angling opportunities without the crowds you'll find closer to Pittsburgh.
This comprehensive guide covers the county's premier fishing locations, from the flowing waters of the Allegheny to the quiet coves of Keystone Lake. We'll explore specific access points, target species, seasonal patterns, and local regulations to help you make the most of your fishing adventures in Armstrong County.
Major Water Bodies and Fishing Overview
Armstrong County's fishing landscape centers around three major water systems that offer distinctly different angling experiences. The Allegheny River serves as the county's primary fishing destination, stretching approximately 30 miles through Armstrong County from East Brady to Freeport. This section of river holds an incredible diversity of fish species and provides year-round fishing opportunities with multiple public access points.
Crooked Creek Lake stands as the county's premier stillwater fishery. This 350-acre U.S. Army Corps of Engineers reservoir features excellent facilities and holds healthy populations of largemouth bass, walleye, northern pike, and panfish. The lake's 10-horsepower motor restriction keeps things peaceful while still allowing anglers to cover water effectively.
The Mahoning Creek watershed provides both lake and stream fishing opportunities. Mahoning Creek Lake offers 162 acres of fishing water with a similar 10-horsepower restriction, while the creek itself provides seasonal trout fishing and smallmouth bass action. Together with smaller waters like Keystone Lake and numerous tributary streams, these systems create a fishing destination that rivals any in western Pennsylvania.
Top Fishing Spots in Armstrong County
1. Allegheny River - Kittanning to Freeport Section
The Allegheny River through Armstrong County offers world-class fishing that many anglers overlook in favor of more famous Pennsylvania waters. The stretch from Kittanning to Freeport provides exceptional smallmouth bass fishing from April through October, with fish averaging 12-16 inches and plenty of 18-20 inch specimens caught each year. The river's diverse structure includes deep pools, rocky riffles, and extensive weed beds that hold fish throughout the seasons.
Access points along this section include the Kittanning Riverfront Park, which offers a concrete boat launch and ample parking. The Ford City boat launch provides another excellent entry point with facilities and easy highway access. For shore anglers, the river trail system offers miles of bank fishing opportunities, particularly productive around bridge pilings and tributary mouths.
Beyond smallmouth bass, this section holds impressive populations of walleye, channel catfish, and muskellunge. The walleye fishing peaks in early spring and late fall, with jigs tipped with minnows or nightcrawlers producing consistent results. Muskie anglers target the deeper pools and weed edges, with several 40-inch plus fish caught annually. The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission stocks this section with trout, adding another dimension to the fishing opportunities.
2. Crooked Creek Lake
Crooked Creek Lake consistently ranks among western Pennsylvania's top bass fishing destinations. The lake's 350 acres provide diverse habitat including standing timber, rocky points, weed beds, and creek channels that hold fish year-round. Spring largemouth bass fishing explodes when water temperatures reach the mid-50s, with fish moving shallow to spawn in the numerous coves and backwater areas.
The dam area and the old creek channel running through the main lake produce excellent walleye fishing, particularly in early spring and late fall. Vertical jigging with blade baits or minnow-tipped jigs works well in 15-25 feet of water. Northern pike patrol the weed edges and shallow bays, with fish up to 15 pounds caught regularly. The lake also supports excellent panfish populations, with bluegill and crappie providing steady action for family fishing trips.
Facilities at Crooked Creek Lake include multiple boat launches, fishing piers accessible to anglers with disabilities, and picnic areas. The main boat launch near the dam offers ample parking and a courtesy dock. The 10-horsepower motor restriction maintains a peaceful atmosphere while electric trolling motors and small outboards provide adequate power for fishing. Ice fishing becomes popular during cold winters, with anglers targeting panfish and pike through the ice.
3. Mahoning Creek Lake
Mahoning Creek Lake flies under the radar for many anglers, but this 162-acre impoundment offers excellent fishing with less pressure than larger regional lakes. The lake's irregular shoreline creates numerous coves and points that concentrate fish, while the submerged creek channel provides deeper water structure for summer and winter fishing.
Largemouth bass thrive in Mahoning Creek Lake's shallow, weedy areas, with good numbers of 2-4 pound fish available. The lake also holds a surprising population of crappie that school in the deeper basin areas during summer and move shallow in spring. Fall brings excellent fishing as bass and crappie feed heavily before winter. The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission stocks the lake with trout twice annually, providing additional opportunities in spring and fall.
Access to Mahoning Creek Lake includes a gravel boat launch suitable for small boats and a fishing pier near the dam. The 10-horsepower restriction keeps boat traffic minimal, making this an ideal destination for kayak fishing or small boat anglers. Shore fishing opportunities exist around much of the lake, with the dam area and inlet particularly productive.
4. Keystone Lake
Keystone Lake offers 65 acres of productive fishing water in a scenic setting near the village of Atwood. This smaller lake provides excellent largemouth bass and panfish opportunities without the crowds found at larger waters. The lake's shallow nature warms quickly in spring, jumpstarting the fishing season earlier than deeper lakes in the region.
Bass fishing at Keystone Lake peaks during the pre-spawn and spawn periods from late April through early June. Fish relate to the abundant shallow cover including fallen trees, weed beds, and docks. Spinnerbaits, soft plastics, and topwater lures all produce well depending on conditions. The lake's healthy bluegill population provides excellent fishing for beginners and experienced anglers alike, with fish reaching impressive sizes for such a small water body.
The single boat launch at Keystone Lake accommodates car-top boats and small trailers, while shore fishing access exists along the dam and several spots around the shoreline. Electric motors only are permitted, maintaining the lake's quiet atmosphere. Winter ice fishing can be productive when safe ice forms, with anglers targeting bluegill, perch, and bass through the ice.
5. Redbank Creek
Redbank Creek provides excellent wade fishing opportunities for anglers seeking a more intimate stream experience. This tributary of the Allegheny River supports both wild and stocked trout populations, along with smallmouth bass in the lower sections. The creek's moderate gradient creates a perfect mix of pools, riffles, and runs that hold fish throughout the season.
The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission stocks Redbank Creek with trout multiple times each spring, with fish holding over in deeper pools through summer when water levels permit. Wild brown trout inhabit the upper reaches and tributary streams, providing challenging fishing for those willing to explore. As you move downstream toward the Allegheny confluence, smallmouth bass become more prevalent, with some quality fish available in the deeper pools.
Access to Redbank Creek varies from roadside pull-offs to established parking areas near bridges. The creek flows through both public and private land, so anglers should respect property boundaries and seek permission where required. Wade fishing works best during normal flows, though the creek can become unfishable after heavy rains. Early morning and evening provide the best fishing during summer months when water temperatures rise.
Fish Species Guide for Armstrong County Waters
Understanding the fish species available and their seasonal patterns helps you target the right fish at the right time. Armstrong County waters support an impressive variety of gamefish and panfish species, each with specific habitat preferences and seasonal movements.
Smallmouth bass represent the most sought-after species in the Allegheny River and tributary streams. These bronze-backed fighters become active when water temperatures reach 50°F in spring, with peak fishing from May through October. They relate to rocky structure, current breaks, and deeper pools during summer heat. Fall brings aggressive feeding as fish bulk up for winter, making September and October prime months for trophy smallmouth.
Largemouth bass dominate the lakes and slower river sections. Crooked Creek Lake and Mahoning Creek Lake both support excellent largemouth populations, with fish relating to weed beds, fallen timber, and shallow cover. The spawn typically occurs from late April through May when water temperatures reach 60-65°F. Summer patterns find bass in deeper water during daylight hours, moving shallow to feed during low-light periods.
Walleye fishing in Armstrong County peaks during spring and fall migrations in the Allegheny River and deeper lakes. These toothy predators concentrate below dams and in deep pools during spring spawning runs from March through April. Crooked Creek Lake offers consistent walleye action along the old river channel and near the dam. Night fishing with minnows or jigs tipped with nightcrawlers produces best during summer months.
Muskellunge, Pennsylvania's state fish, patrol the Allegheny River and Crooked Creek Lake. These apex predators require patience and persistence, but Armstrong County waters produce several trophy fish each season. Focus efforts on deep pools, weed edges, and areas with abundant forage fish. Fall months from September through November offer the best chances for connecting with a monster muskie.
Northern pike inhabit several county lakes, with Crooked Creek Lake supporting the best population. These aggressive predators relate to weed edges, shallow bays, and ambush points throughout the season. Ice fishing for pike has gained popularity, with tip-ups baited with large minnows accounting for good catches during safe ice conditions.
Trout fishing opportunities exist both in stocked lakes and streams throughout the county. The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission stocks rainbow and brown trout in designated waters from March through May and again in fall. Redbank Creek, Mahoning Creek, and sections of smaller tributaries receive regular stockings. Some streams support wild trout populations in their headwater sections, offering challenging fishing for native brook and brown trout.
Panfish species including bluegill, pumpkinseed sunfish, crappie, and yellow perch provide excellent opportunities for family fishing. These species inhabit most county waters, with peak fishing during the spring spawn from May through June. Ice fishing for panfish has become increasingly popular on area lakes when safe ice conditions exist.
Seasonal Fishing Calendar and Best Times
Spring (March-May) brings the most diverse fishing opportunities in Armstrong County. As water temperatures rise, walleye begin spawning runs in the Allegheny River, followed by northern pike in shallow lake areas. Trout stockings commence in March, providing excellent fishing through May. By late April, bass move shallow for spawning, creating exciting sight-fishing opportunities. Panfish spawn in May and early June, offering fast action for anglers of all skill levels.
Summer (June-August) fishing requires adjusting to warmer water temperatures and changing fish behavior. Early morning and evening produce best results, with fish moving to deeper, cooler water during midday heat. River smallmouth bass remain active in current areas, while lake fish relate to thermocline depths. Night fishing for catfish and walleye peaks during summer months. Focus on shaded areas, deeper structure, and areas with current or spring influences.
Fall (September-November) triggers aggressive feeding behavior as fish prepare for winter. This season offers some of the year's best fishing, particularly for smallmouth bass, muskie, and walleye. Cooling water temperatures bring fish shallow again, with excellent topwater action on calm mornings. Fall trout stockings provide additional opportunities, while panfish school in deeper areas. The fall foliage adds scenic beauty to fishing trips during this productive season.
Winter (December-February) fishing centers on ice fishing when conditions permit and open water below dams. Safe ice typically forms on smaller lakes by late December or early January, though conditions vary yearly. Ice anglers target panfish, pike, and bass through the ice using small jigs, tip-ups, and live bait. The Allegheny River rarely freezes, providing year-round fishing opportunities for dedicated anglers willing to brave cold conditions. Walleye and sauger bite well in deep river pools during winter months.
Fishing Regulations and Licensing
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 in 2025. Trout fishing requires an additional trout stamp costing $9.90 for residents and non-residents alike. Licenses can be purchased online through the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission website, at authorized agents throughout the county, or via the FishBoatPA mobile app.
Armstrong County waters follow Pennsylvania's statewide fishing regulations with some specific restrictions. The Allegheny River has no special regulations in Armstrong County, following statewide seasons and limits. Bass season runs year-round with catch and release only from mid-April through mid-June during the spawn. The daily limit is six bass (combined species) with a 12-inch minimum length.
Walleye regulations allow year-round fishing with a daily limit of six fish and an 15-inch minimum length. Muskellunge and tiger muskellunge have a 40-inch minimum length with a daily limit of one fish. Northern pike have an 18-inch minimum with a daily limit of two fish. Trout regulations vary by water and season, with most waters following regional opening day in mid-April with a five-trout daily limit.
Special regulations apply to specific waters. Crooked Creek Lake and Mahoning Creek Lake both enforce 10-horsepower motor restrictions. Keystone Lake permits electric motors only. Some waters have specific bait restrictions or seasonal closures. Always check current regulations before fishing, as rules can change annually. The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission provides free regulation books at license agents and online resources with up-to-date information.
Access Points and Facilities
Public access to Armstrong County fishing waters ranges from developed boat launches with facilities to primitive carry-in access points. Understanding available amenities helps plan successful fishing trips and ensures you're prepared for conditions at each location.
The Allegheny River offers multiple access points throughout Armstrong County. Kittanning Riverfront Park provides the most developed access with a concrete boat ramp, courtesy dock, ample parking, and restrooms. The park also features picnic areas and a walking trail along the river. Ford City boat launch offers similar amenities with easy access from Route 66. Smaller access areas at Rosston, Templeton, and Freeport provide basic launching for smaller boats and kayaks.
Crooked Creek Lake features excellent facilities managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The main boat launch near the dam includes a concrete ramp, courtesy dock, and parking for 50 vehicles with trailers. A secondary launch at the upper end of the lake provides access when water levels permit. The lake offers two fishing piers accessible to anglers with disabilities, picnic areas with grills, and restroom facilities. A visitor center provides information about fishing conditions and lake levels.
Mahoning Creek Lake's access includes a gravel boat launch suitable for smaller boats and trailers. The launch area has limited parking but rarely crowds except during spring trout stockings. A fishing pier near the dam provides shore fishing access, while walking trails allow access to other shoreline areas. Basic restroom facilities are available, though amenities remain limited compared to larger lakes.
Stream access varies considerably throughout the county. Redbank Creek has several roadside pull-offs and bridge crossings providing access. Some sections flow through state game lands with walk-in access, while other areas require landowner permission. Mahoning Creek below the dam offers good wading access at several bridge crossings. Always respect private property and seek permission when crossing private land to access water.
Local Fishing Techniques and Tips
Success in Armstrong County waters often depends on adapting techniques to local conditions and seasonal patterns. Local anglers have developed specific approaches that consistently produce fish across different waters and seasons.
For Allegheny River smallmouth bass, tube jigs in natural colors like green pumpkin and brown work exceptionally well bounced along rocky bottoms. During summer, topwater action peaks at dawn and dusk using poppers and walking baits. In fall, suspending jerkbaits trigger aggressive strikes from feeding bass. Local experts recommend focusing on current breaks, wing dams, and areas where tributaries enter the river.
Lake largemouth bass respond well to traditional techniques with local modifications. During spring, slowly worked soft plastics around shallow cover produce consistent results. Summer patterns require fishing deeper structure with Carolina rigs, drop shots, and deep-diving crankbaits. Crooked Creek Lake's standing timber holds fish year-round, with flipping jigs and Texas-rigged creatures earning plenty of bites. Don't overlook simple techniques like wacky-rigged stick worms, which produce when fishing gets tough.
Walleye fishing in county waters requires patience and persistence. Vertical jigging with blade baits or jigging spoons works well in deeper lake areas and river pools. Trolling crankbaits along weed edges and drop-offs covers water efficiently when fish scatter. The most consistent local technique involves drifting or slow-trolling spinner rigs tipped with nightcrawlers or leeches. Night fishing under lights near dam areas produces good catches during summer months.
Understanding how fishing techniques vary by season helps improve success rates. Spring calls for slower presentations as fish remain sluggish in cold water. Summer requires fishing during low-light periods or targeting deeper, cooler water during midday heat. Fall fishing allows aggressive presentations as fish feed heavily before winter. Winter demands slow, subtle presentations whether ice fishing or targeting open water.
Conservation and Best Practices
Protecting Armstrong County's fishing resources ensures future generations can enjoy these waters. Practicing selective harvest, proper catch and release techniques, and respecting the environment maintains healthy fish populations and pristine waters.
Catch and release has become increasingly important for maintaining quality fishing. When releasing fish, minimize handling time and keep fish in the water when possible. Use barbless hooks or crimp barbs to facilitate easy hook removal. During warm summer months, avoid fishing for trout when water temperatures exceed 70°F, as stress and mortality rates increase significantly. For deep-hooked fish, cut the line rather than attempting to remove embedded hooks.
Selective harvest means keeping smaller, more abundant fish while releasing larger breeding-size fish. This practice maintains balanced populations and ensures trophy fish remain available. Consider keeping a few medium-sized fish for the table while releasing both small fish to grow and large fish to breed. Many successful Armstrong County anglers practice complete catch and release for bass and muskie while selectively harvesting panfish and stocked trout.
Environmental stewardship extends beyond fish handling. Pack out all trash, including discarded fishing line that can entangle wildlife. Respect vegetation and avoid trampling sensitive shoreline areas. When wading, enter and exit streams at established access points to minimize bank erosion. Follow regulations regarding live bait use and never transport fish or bait between waters to prevent spreading invasive species or diseases.
Frequently Asked Questions
What fishing license do I need for Armstrong County PA?
Anglers 16 and older need a Pennsylvania fishing license ($22.90 for residents, $52.90 for non-residents). Add a trout stamp ($9.90) if you plan to fish for trout. Licenses are valid from January 1 through December 31.
When is the best time to fish the Allegheny River in Armstrong County?
May through October offers prime river fishing, with May-June and September-October being peak months for smallmouth bass and walleye. Early morning and evening produce best results during summer.
Can you eat fish from Armstrong County waters?
Yes, but follow Pennsylvania's fish consumption advisories. The state recommends limiting consumption of certain species from the Allegheny River. Check the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission website for current consumption guidelines.
Are there any trout streams in Armstrong County?
Yes, Redbank Creek and Mahoning Creek receive regular trout stockings. Several smaller tributaries also get stocked. Some headwater sections support wild trout populations.
What are the motor restrictions on Armstrong County lakes?
Crooked Creek Lake and Mahoning Creek Lake have 10-horsepower restrictions. Keystone Lake allows electric motors only. The Allegheny River has no motor restrictions.
Where can I launch a boat on the Allegheny River?
Main launches include Kittanning Riverfront Park, Ford City, Rosston, and Templeton. All provide free public access with varying amenities.
Is ice fishing allowed on Armstrong County lakes?
Yes, ice fishing is permitted when safe ice conditions exist. Crooked Creek Lake and smaller waters like Keystone Lake offer good ice fishing. Always check ice thickness before venturing out.
What's the best bait for catfish in the Allegheny River?
Channel catfish respond well to nightcrawlers, cut bait, chicken liver, and prepared stink baits. Fish deeper holes during the day and shallow flats at night during summer.
Do I need a special permit for Crooked Creek Lake?
No special permits beyond a Pennsylvania fishing license are required. The lake is managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers with free public access.
When do bass spawn in Armstrong County?
Largemouth bass typically spawn from late April through May when water temperatures reach 60-65°F. Smallmouth bass spawn slightly later, from May into early June.
Conclusion
Armstrong County stands as one of western Pennsylvania's most underrated fishing destinations, offering diverse opportunities just 30 miles from Pittsburgh. From the flowing waters of the Allegheny River with its 47 fish species to the peaceful coves of Crooked Creek Lake, anglers can find exactly the type of fishing they prefer without traveling far from home.
The combination of well-managed lakes, productive rivers, and stocked streams creates year-round fishing opportunities for every skill level. Whether you're teaching a child to fish from the pier at Crooked Creek Lake, wading Redbank Creek for trout, or pursuing trophy muskie in the Allegheny River, Armstrong County waters deliver consistent action in scenic settings.
Success comes from understanding seasonal patterns, respecting regulations, and adapting techniques to local conditions. Take time to explore different waters throughout the county, as each offers unique experiences and challenges. With proper conservation practices and continued management, Armstrong County's fishing heritage will thrive for generations of anglers to come.
Plan your next fishing adventure to Armstrong County and discover why local anglers have kept these waters a closely guarded secret. The best fishing lakes may get more publicity, but Armstrong County's combination of accessibility, diversity, and productivity rivals any destination in the region. Tight lines!
