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Fishing at Bald Eagle State Park

The 1,730-acre Sayers Reservoir and its 23 miles of shoreline offer excellent warmwater fishing. Common species are:

  • Crappie
  • Yellow perch
  • Tiger muskellunge
  • Channel catfish
  • Largemouth and smallmouth bass

The lake is a panfish enhancement waterway and special regulations apply.

This activity or structure is ADA accessible. An ADA-accessible fishing pier is at the Winter Launch in the Main Park Area.

Ice Fishing

About 630 acres of the lake are available during the winter.

Snow and Ice Conditions

The Winter Report provides ice and snow depth information for state parks.

Be Safe on the Ice

Ice thickness is not monitored.

  • Test ice thickness with an auger before recreating. Four inches of solid ice is the minimum recommended thickness for a single person. Seven inches of solid ice is the minimum recommended thickness for small group.
  • Always carry safety equipment and know how to use it.
  • Spread out. Crowds can put too much weight onto one area.
  • Be aware of changes in ice thickness across a body of water. Perimeter ice is weaker due to shifting, expansion and sunlight reflecting off of the bottom.
  • Avoid areas with protruding logs, brush, plants, and docks. These structures absorb heat, weakening the surrounding ice.
  • Avoid areas with multiple or intersecting cracks, and standing water over ice.
  • Venturing out on ice alone is not advisable. Take a friend along for fun and for safety.
  • Wear a PFD (life jacket).
  • Check the weather and plan accordingly. Several days with temperatures above freezing will weaken the ice.

Foster Joseph Sayers Reservoir

The 1,730-acre lake is the focal point for water-based recreation in the park. The nearly eight-mile long lake has 23 miles of shoreline.

Because of its role in flood damage reduction and downstream water quality, the operation of the dam is the responsibility of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). Lake levels vary throughout the year.

Beginning in November, the USACE begins a five-foot lake draw down to prepare for winter waters. Between mid-February and early March, the water level is lowered an additional 15 feet to maximum flood protection pool. Depending on weather conditions, the reservoir usually reaches the summer recreational pool by mid-May.

For current lake level, visit the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers lake level website.

Fishing Resources

​Foster Joseph Sayers Lake Water Depth Black-and-White Map (PDF) 

​Foster Joseph Sayers Lake Water Depth Color Map (PDF)

Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission regulations and laws apply.