Are you a fishing enthusiast looking for the best spots in Pennsylvania to grab your catch of catfish? Do you love spending time outdoors exploring and discovering new waterways? Well, if so, then look no further! This blog post will highlight our favorite catfish fishing locations in Pennsylvania. From tranquil lakes with stunning views to rivers hidden beyond rolling hills, these spots offer some of the best opportunities for catching monstrously large catfish!
Whether you’re an experienced angler seeking a challenge or just beginning your journey into freshwater fishing, these places have something special for everyone! So read on and get ready to plan your next outdoor adventure in pursuit of finned friends.
Best Catfish Fishing Locations in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania offers a variety of excellent catfishing spots for anglers. In this guide, we will explore some of the best locations in the state to catch catfish. Each location will include details on dimensions, historical information, and specific information for fishermen. We will also list fish species often seen in each location.
1. Susquehanna River
The Susquehanna River is one of the longest rivers on the East Coast, stretching over 444 miles from New York to Maryland. It is an important water source for the Chesapeake Bay, known for its picturesque landscapes and abundant wildlife. The river is home to numerous islands, rapids, and deep pools that provide excellent catfishing opportunities. The lower Susquehanna near Harrisburg is particularly popular for its large channel and flathead catfish population, with many fish exceeding 30 inches in length.
Fish Species Often Seen:
- Channel Catfish
- Flathead Catfish
- Smallmouth Bass
- Walleye
2. Lake Nockamixon
Lake Nockamixon is a beautiful 1,450-acre reservoir located in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. It was created in the 1960s as part of the Nockamixon State Park project and is now a popular recreational spot for fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities. The lake has a maximum depth of 60 feet and numerous underwater structures like fallen trees, rock piles, and submerged roadbeds that attract catfish. Anglers can find good numbers of channel catfish along the shoreline and near the dam.
Fish Species Often Seen:
- Channel Catfish
- Hybrid Striped Bass
- Largemouth Bass
- Muskellunge
3. Schuylkill River
The Schuylkill River flows for 135 miles through southeastern Pennsylvania, providing a vital waterway for the region. The river has a rich history dating back to the early days of the United States, including its role in the Revolutionary War and the Industrial Revolution. The Schuylkill River is known for its diverse fish population, including catfish, making it an ideal location for anglers. The stretch below the Fairmount Dam in Philadelphia is a popular channel and flathead catfish spot.
Fish Species Often Seen:
- Channel Catfish
- Flathead Catfish
- Smallmouth Bass
- American Shad
4. Blue Marsh Lake
Blue Marsh Lake is a 1,150-acre impoundment located in Berks County, Pennsylvania. The lake was constructed in the 1970s by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for flood control, water supply, and recreational purposes. It is now a popular destination for anglers, boaters, and hikers. With a maximum depth of 144 feet, Blue Marsh Lake offers excellent catfishing opportunities, especially near the State Hill Boat Launch and the Tulpehocken Creek inlet. Night fishing is also popular at Blue Marsh Lake, as catfish are more active.
Fish Species Often Seen:
- Channel Catfish
- Flathead Catfish
- Largemouth Bass
- White Crappie
5. Allegheny River
The Allegheny River stretches for 325 miles through western Pennsylvania and New York, eventually joining the Monongahela River to form the Ohio River. The river has played a significant role in the region’s history, from Native American settlements to the growth of the steel industry in Pittsburgh. The Allegheny River provides excellent catfishing opportunities, with abundant channel and flathead catfish populations. The area near the Kinzua Dam is known for its trophy-sized catfish, and the stretch between Kittanning and Ford City offers good numbers of both species.
Fish Species Often Seen:
- Channel Catfish
- Flathead Catfish
- Smallmouth Bass
- Northern Pike
6. Monongahela River
The Monongahela River spans 130 miles, flowing through West Virginia and Pennsylvania before joining the Allegheny River to create the Ohio River in Pittsburgh. This river has played a crucial role in the region’s transportation and industrial history. The Monongahela River offers excellent opportunities for anglers, with numerous deep pools and submerged structures that attract catfish. The stretch between Point Marion and Elizabeth is particularly well-known for its channel and flathead catfish populations.
Fish Species Often Seen:
- Channel Catfish
- Flathead Catfish
- Smallmouth Bass
- Walleye
7. Raystown Lake
Raystown Lake is an 8,300-acre reservoir located in Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania. It was created in the 1970s by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for flood control, water supply, and recreation. With a maximum depth of 200 feet, the lake offers diverse fishing opportunities. Anglers can find channel catfish in the shallow coves and near the dam, while flathead catfish prefer deeper water around the submerged structures.
Fish Species Often Seen:
- Channel Catfish
- Flathead Catfish
- Largemouth Bass
- Striped Bass
8. Lehigh River
The Lehigh River flows for 109 miles through eastern Pennsylvania, eventually joining the Delaware River. The river has played an essential role in the region’s industrial history, particularly during the coal mining era. Today, the Lehigh River is a popular destination for fishing and whitewater rafting. Anglers can find good numbers of channel catfish in the slow-moving sections of the river, especially near the confluence with the Delaware River.
Fish Species Often Seen:
- Channel Catfish
- Smallmouth Bass
- Walleye
- Trout
9. Marsh Creek Lake
Marsh Creek Lake is a 535-acre reservoir situated in Chester County, Pennsylvania. The lake was created in the 1970s for flood control and recreation and is now part of Marsh Creek State Park. With a maximum depth of 80 feet, Marsh Creek Lake is a popular spot for anglers seeking various fish species. Channel catfish can be found near the dam and along the rocky shorelines.
Fish Species Often Seen:
- Channel Catfish
- Largemouth Bass
- Black Crappie
- Yellow Perch
10. Youghiogheny River
The Youghiogheny River, often called the “Yough,” stretches for 134 miles through West Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. The river is known for its stunning scenery and excellent fishing opportunities. The Youghiogheny River offers diverse fishing spots, from deep pools to rocky rapids. Anglers can find channel catfish in the slower sections of the river, particularly near the confluence with the Monongahela River.
Fish Species Often Seen:
- Channel Catfish
- Smallmouth Bass
- Walleye
- Rainbow Trout
FAQ
What is a flathead catfish?
Flathead catfish, also known as Pylodictis olivaris, is a large freshwater fish native to North America. They are found in rivers, lakes, and reservoirs and are known for their distinctive flat head and large size.
How can I identify a flathead catfish?
Flathead catfish have a unique appearance that distinguishes them from other catfish species. They have a broad, flattened head, a wide mouth with small, sharp teeth, and a typically brown or yellowish-brown body with a mottled pattern. Their tails are slightly notched, with long whisker-like barbels around their mouths.
What do flathead catfish eat?
Flathead catfish are opportunistic predators and will eat a variety of prey, including fish, crayfish, and other aquatic animals. They are known to be particularly fond of live fish, such as sunfish, shad, and other smaller species of catfish.
How big do flathead catfish get?
Flathead catfish are one of the largest species of catfish, with some individuals reaching over 100 pounds in weight and lengths of up to 5 feet. However, most flathead catfish caught by anglers are between 5 and 40 pounds.
Where can I find flathead catfish?
Flathead catfish are native to the central and eastern United States and parts of Canada and Mexico. They inhabit large rivers, reservoirs, and lakes with slow-moving water and plenty of cover, such as submerged logs or vegetation.
Where can I find flathead catfish?
Flathead catfish are native to the central and eastern United States and parts of Canada and Mexico. They inhabit large rivers, reservoirs, and lakes with slow-moving water and plenty of cover, such as submerged logs or vegetation.
What is the best way to catch flathead catfish?
Live bait, such as small fish or crayfish, is generally the most effective method for catching flathead catfish. Anglers should use heavy tackle and strong hooks to handle the size and strength of these fish. Fishing near structure or cover, such as submerged logs, rocks, or vegetation, is often a good strategy for locating flathead catfish.
Are flathead catfish good to eat?
Flathead catfish are considered to be a tasty fish, with firm, white meat that is low in fat and has a mild flavor. They can be prepared in various ways, including frying, grilling, or baking.
Are there any special regulations for flathead catfish?
Fishing regulations for flathead catfish vary by location, so checking your local fishing laws and guidelines before heading out is essential. Some areas may have size or weight limits, catch-and-release requirements, or specific seasons for targeting flathead catfish.
Do flathead catfish have any predators?
Adult flathead catfish have few natural predators due to their large size. However, juvenile flathead catfish may fall prey to larger fish, birds, and other aquatic predators. Human anglers are likely the most significant threat to adult flathead catfish populations.
What is the world record for the largest flathead catfish?
The International Game Fish Association (IGFA) currently recognizes a 123-pound flathead catfish caught in Kansas, USA, in 1998 as the world record. However, there have been numerous reports of even larger flathead catfish caught by anglers, but they did not meet the IGFA’s strict requirements for record recognition.