Fishing at Lackawanna State Park
The 198-acre Lackawanna Lake has cold water and warm water fish. The 2.5-mile-long lake has more than 7.5 miles of shoreline.
Common species are:
- Trout
- Muskellunge
- Walleye
- Channel catfish
- Bullhead
- Pickerel
- Largemouth bass
This activity or structure is ADA accessible. The fishing pier by the main boat launch is ADA accessible.
The three-acre Trostle Pond, in the northern end of the park, is open to youth fishing only (ages 12 and under) and hosts a variety of warm water species.
Ice Fishing
Most of the 198-acre Lackawanna Lake is open for ice fishing on the natural ice, except for the ice skating area, under the PA 407 bridge and near the dam.
Be Safe on the Ice
- 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.
Fishing Resources
Lackawanna Lake Water Depth Black-and-White Map (PDF)
Lackawanna Lake Water Depth Color Map (PDF)
Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission regulations and laws apply.