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Fishing at Kettle Creek State Park

The 167-acre Kettle Creek Reservoir is noted for its trout and bass fishing. Also found in the lake are:

  • Brown bullhead
  • Sucker
  • Panfish

Kettle Creek is noted for its excellent water quality that supports a healthy aquatic population.

The Lower Campground, beside the seven-acre Kettle Creek Lake, is a very popular fishing area. Many excellent native trout streams surround the park. Mine drainage limits the fishing quality of Kettle Creek below the Lower Campground.

Additional information about fishing is available at the park office.

Ice Fishing

Ice fishing is permitted on the natural ice of the lake. The 167-acre Kettle Creek Reservoir is stocked with trout for the winter season.

Ice thickness is not monitored.

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

Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission regulations and laws apply.