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Fishing at Promised Land State Park

This activity or structure is ADA accessible. An ADA-accessible fishing pier is on Promised Land Lake.

The 422-acre Promised Land Lake and the 173-acre Lower Lake offer great opportunities for fishing.

Common fish species are:

  • Largemouth and smallmouth bass
  • Pickerel
  • Muskellunge
  • Yellow perch
  • Sunfish
  • Catfish

Lower Lake is an approved trout waters and is stocked with brook, brown, and rainbow trout. Trout stamp restrictions apply to fish in these waters. Fishing is prohibited prior to the start of the trout season.

Ice Fishing

Ice fishing is popular on both lakes, with bass, pickerel, and panfish the most common fish caught through the ice.

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.

Snow and Ice Conditions

The Winter Report provides ice and snow depth information for state parks.

Fishing Resources

Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission regulations and laws apply.