Fishing in Northcentral PA is a special experience, offering anglers a chance to explore some of the most pristine and untouched waters in the state. Known as the Pennsylvania Wilds, this region boasts a rugged landscape of forests, rolling hills, and crystal-clear streams that feel like stepping back in time.
It’s home to waters like Pine Creek, often called the “Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania,” where anglers can find healthy populations of wild and stocked trout.
The remoteness of the region creates a peaceful atmosphere, making it ideal for anglers looking to escape the crowds and connect with nature. With its cold-water streams, abundant aquatic life, and rich outdoor heritage, making fishing in northcentral PA a dream destination for adventure enthusiasts and traditional anglers.
Where to go Fishing in the Pennsylvania Wilds
Pine Creek (Tioga and Lycoming Counties)
- Fishing: Renowned for its excellent wild trout fishing opportunities.
- Paddling: Great for kayaking and canoeing.
- Other Activities:
- Explore nearby Pine Creek Gorge (The Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania).
- Hike the Pine Creek Rail Trail for stunning views and wildlife spotting.
Hammond Lake (Tioga County)
The 640-acre lake is home to some great fishing. Lots of fish habitat structures placed near the shore provide great shore fishing.
- Fishing: Excellent for catching crappie and bass.
- Paddling: Calm waters make it inviting for kayaking and canoeing.
- Other Activities:
Hills Creek Lake (Tioga County)
- Fishing: A 137-acre lake within Hills Creek State Park has superb fishing for panfish, perch, and bass for easy shoreline fishing.
- Paddling: Kayaks are available to rent for exploring the lake.
- Other Activities:
- Wildlife spotting opportunities: ospreys, eagles, deer, and even bears.
- Camping options: cottages, yurts, and primitive sites.
- Hiking trails and a fishing pier for easy lake access.
- You can rent kayaks to paddle around the lake.
- Winter: Trails for cross-country skiing.
- Summer: A sandy beach for swimming.
Foster Joseph Sayers Reservoir (Centre County)
The Reservoir is located in Bald Eagle State Park and is perfect for warmwater fishing and paddling.
- Fishing: Fish for bass and panfish in this 1,730-acre lake.
- Paddling: Perfect for warmwater paddling adventures.
- Other Activities:
- Stay at The Nature Inn Bald Eagle State Park, a top eco-lodge in the nation.
- Participate in nature programs focused on conservation and sustainability.
- Look for nesting bald eagles and other wildlife.
- Camp under the stars at Bald Eagle State Park.
Penns Creek (Centre County)
- Fishing: Pennsylvania’s longest limestone stream, perfect for fly-fishing with 35 miles of fishable waters.
- Other Activities:
- Take a family trip to Penn’s Cave & Wildlife Park, where the stream begins.
- Combine fishing with a visit to State College and Penn State for dining, shopping, and cultural experiences.
West Branch Susquehanna River (Clearfield, Clinton, Lycoming, and Union Counties)
- Fishing: Offers chances to catch crappie, trout, bass, and dozens of other species.
- Paddling:
- Access maps and guides for paddling itineraries from the Susquehanna Greenway Partnership.
- Visit Susquehanna State Park in Lycoming County for more outdoor fun.
Fishing Creek (Clinton County)
- Fishing: A premier trout stream with cold water that rarely exceeds 65°F.
- Other Activities:
- Explore nearby hiking trails and enjoy the pristine natural surroundings.
- Be sure to check trout regulations, which vary by stream section.
Your fishing license dollars at work.
Funds from fishing license sales help the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission protect and improve water quality and protect and manage reptiles, amphibians and other aquatic life. The agency works to ensure aquatic resources remain protected and water quality supports aquatic life; tracks endangered, threatened and rare animals under the PFBC’s jurisdiction; and manages species restoration efforts and habitat protections and improvement.
Partially adapted from: Welcome to Northcentral PA! by Linda Stager, Pennsylvania Angler & Boater Magazine and Hills Creek State Park: Tioga County’s Lake with a Legacy by Linda Stager, Pennsylvania Angler & Boater Magazine
