What & Where to Fish?
Lake Wallenpaupack is home to three main types of fish; pan, common and game fish.
This guide shows you which species to target, where to find them based on lake structure and habitat, and seasonal tips to improve your fishing success.
Game Fish
Game fish are restricted to daily size & catch limits. Always check PFBC Regulations before you cast!
For tips on how to catch these view our Fishing Guide by Species page for tips, bait suggestions and where to find them!
Pan & Common Fish
Pan & Common fish are typically much less restricted when referring to daily catch/size limits. Always check PFBC Regulations before you cast!
Key Fishing Terrain & Structures
Terrain and underwater structures are key to catching fish. Fish use these areas for feeding, cover, and changes in water depth.
Knowing where these structures are can greatly improve your chances of finding active fish.
Deep channels
Often hold striped bass and walleye, especially in warmer months. Fish move to deeper, cooler water.
Best Tactics:
Trolling
Fishing along depth changes
Rocky Points
Rocky points are prime feeding areas for smallmouth bass and walleye. Fish often patrol these spots looking for baitfish.
Best Tactics:
Cast along drop-offs
Fish rocky edges
Weed Beds
Weed beds offer great cover for largemouth bass and panfish. Fish use vegetation for protection, and in the warmer months these are great spots for ambush points for larger fish.
Docks & Structures
Boat docks and marinas provide shade and structure that attract baitfish. Structures and docks offer hiding spots and feeding zones.
Looking for where to launch the boat? View our Boating Launch Guide for locations and tips!
Hydroelectric Water Releases
Lake Wallenpaupack is a hydroelectric reservoir. Water releases from the dam can cause rapid rises in the Lackawaxen River downstream.
Why it matters:
Sudden water level changes can affect fish behavior and feeding areas
Anglers need to be aware for safety and to target the best spots
Man Made Fishing Structures
In addition to natural terrain, Lake Wallenpaupack has man-made structures designed to improve fishing and support fish populations.
Porcupine Cribs
Porcupine cribs are made from bundles of branches anchored underwater.
Provide shelter for baitfish
Attract bass, crappie, and perch
Spawning Beds
Spawning beds are gravel areas placed in shallow water to support fish reproduction.
Used by bass and sunfish for spawning
Can become productive fishing spots during and after spawning season
Seasonal Fishing Overview
Spring
Walleye spawn and crappie move shallow.
Summer
Striped bass move deep while bass stay near docks.
Fall
Fish feed aggressively before winter.
Winter
Ice fishing targets perch, crappie, and walleye.
Shoreline Fishing Spots
No boat? No problem — here’s exactly where to fish from shore around the lake.
Shuman Point
3-mile trail with multiple shoreline access points
Rocks, points, and drop-offs
Less crowded than launch areas
Tip: Move around — don’t stay in one spot.
Mangan Cove
Public access + parking
Shoreline + accessible fishing pier
Great for quick trips
Tip: Fish early morning before boat traffic kicks up.
Ironwood Point
Easy shoreline access
Fishing pier available
Good for casual fishing
Tip: Great place to bring kids or fish without hiking.
Wilsonville Recreation Area
Open shoreline areas
Easy parking
Good all-around starting point
👉 Local tip: Try evenings here — less activity, better bites.
Lake Trail/Tafton Area
Walkable shoreline access
Easy to reach
Good for short sessions
Tip: Fish low-light hours — mornings or sunset.
Ledgedale Recreation Area
Easy shoreline entry
Close to river/creek influence
Good starting point in that area
Tip: Focus on calm, shallow edges.
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Helpful Resources:
Know a great fishing spot or seasonal tip?
Contact us to share local fishing knowledge or have your business featured on the Wallenpaupack Guide.