If you’re thinking of going to Raystown Lake for your next fishing trip, then you’re in for an unparalleled bass fishing and camping experience at Raystown Lake! This sprawling reservoir is the largest lake entirely within the state, and it’s a vibrant fishing hub teeming with opportunities for every kind of angler.
With its clear, deep waters and diverse ecosystem, this lake in Huntingdon County is a popular destination for enthusiasts of the water sport.
Known for its plentiful striped bass (The PA Fish & Boat Commission stocks the lake with 100,000 fingerlings every year), bass fishing Raystown Lake, PA, is an adventure that both seasoned fishermen and those just dipping their toes into the waters of angling should experience at least once.
Aside from striped bass, the lake is so vast and teeming with fish species that you never quite know what you’ll find at the end of your line. But with our fishing tip and guide, you just might be able to reel in that elusive catch you’re looking for.
Key Takeaways
- Raystown Lake offers an unparalleled bass fishing experience with its vast size, diverse fish species, and beautiful natural surroundings.
- Strategic planning, including early accommodation and boat rental bookings, is essential for a successful fishing trip to Raystown Lake.
- Protecting the bass population through catch-and-release practices during spawning season ensures the continued abundance and health of bass in Raystown Lake.
Why Raystown Lake?
Before we give you our fishing tips, we want to give you more reasons to visit us because we believe Raystown Lake has everything any individual serious about fishing wants. And we have several compelling reasons:
Raystown Lake’s sheer size is a big part of its allure. It covers 8,300 acres and is 28 miles long, and water depths go 200 feet down in the deepest part. Originally a natural lake, it was expanded and built on by the Army Corps of Engineers to serve as flood control.
As the largest lake confined within Pennsylvania, it presents endless opportunities for anglers to find their perfect spot. Depending on what part of the lake you fish in, you’ll find different species thriving in their preferred habitats, from the cooler waters to the shallow drop-offs.
The variety of bass species available is another reason anglers flock to Raystown Lake. And beyond the popular stripers, the lake is also home to smallmouth, brown trout, largemouth bass, lake trout, channel cats, yellow perch, muskies, and more.
One cool fact about the lake you will be interested in: Lake Raystown contains more species of fish than most lakes in the U.S.
The lake’s structure and water conditions play a significant role in creating an ideal habitat for different fish. The diverse underwater terrain, featuring drop-offs, creek edges, and standing timber, provides perfect hiding spots for fish, making them exciting challenges for anglers.
The clear waters in the deeper parts of the lake contrast with the more turbid waters near the tributaries, offering varied environments for different species.
Lastly, the availability of boat ramps and rentals at strategic locations like Snyder’s Run and Seven Points, along with designated wake zones, ensures that anglers can easily access these prime fishing spots while enjoying a safe and enjoyable experience on the water.
Tactics and Techniques for Success
Fishing at Raystown Lake requires a blend of strategy, patience, and understanding of the lake’s unique conditions to significantly increase your chances of a noteworthy catch. Here’s how you can maximize your success on this exceptional body of water:
Deep-water trolling for summer bass
During the summer months, as water temperatures rise, bass, particularly smallmouth, tend to migrate to cooler, deeper parts of the lake. This is where deep-water trolling comes into play.
Using downriggers to reach the desired depths, anglers can target bass lurking around 20 to 40 feet deep, especially near underwater structures like drop-offs or near the dam where the water is cooler.
Jerkbaits and deep-diving crankbaits can be particularly effective in these conditions, mimicking the small fish that bass feed on.
Shoreline casting in spring
Spring brings a different dynamic to Raystown Lake. As the water warms, largemouth bass move closer to the shore to spawn, making them more accessible to anglers. This is the perfect time for shoreline casting, using soft plastic worms or lizards rigged weedless to avoid snags.
Casting near submerged logs, weed beds, or rocky outcrops can yield excellent results. Topwater lures can also be thrilling during early mornings or late evenings, enticing bass to make explosive surface strikes.
Lure selection
Selecting the right lure is crucial and can vary significantly depending on the time of year and conditions:
- Jerkbaits: These are ideal during the cooler months or for targeting smallmouth bass in deeper waters. Their erratic, darting motion can entice strikes from bass that are aggressively feeding on minnows or shad.
- Soft plastics: Worms, lizards, and creature baits are versatile and can be used effectively throughout the year. Rigged Texas-style for weedless performance or on a Carolina rig for deeper water, they mimic the natural prey of bass.
- Topwaters: Perfect for early morning or late evening during the warmer months. The visual strikes on these lures can be spectacular and are effective in shallower areas around Seven Points and James Creek.
Tips for success
- Understand the lake’s topography: Using Google Maps or a detailed lake map to familiarize yourself with the lake’s structure can be incredibly beneficial. Knowing where the drop-offs, creek edges, and standing timber are can help you target bass more effectively.
- Keep an eye on water conditions: Raystown Lake’s water levels and clarity can change, affecting where and how bass feed. Adjust your tactics accordingly, whether that means fishing deeper or switching to lures better suited for murky water.
- Be flexible: Be ready to change your approach based on what the lake and the bass are telling you. If one technique isn’t working, don’t hesitate to switch things up – try different lures, depths, or areas of the lake.
Best Fishing Spots on Raystown Lake
Here are some of the best places within Raystown Lake where the bass bite is strong, and the adventure is always waiting.
Shy Beaver Creek
This spot is a treasure trove for bass enthusiasts. Situated in a quieter part of the lake, Shy Beaver Creek is known for its lush underwater vegetation and structure, providing perfect ambush points for both largemouth and smallmouth bass.
The creek’s no-wake zone makes it a serene place to cast your line, especially for kayak anglers.
James Creek
As one of the lake’s tributaries, James Creek offers a diverse habitat with its mix of deep and shallow waters and the chance to catch both largemouth and smallmouth bass. It is celebrated for its spring bass fishing, where the shallower waters warm up first, drawing bass to its banks.
The area around the James Creek Boat Launch is particularly fruitful for bass during the spring spawn. Plus, its protected waters make it a safe choice for families and those new to the sport.
Near the dam
The area around the Raystown Dam is renowned for its deep waters and the big catches it yields. Here, anglers can find striped bass and lake trout, especially during the early mornings or late evenings.
This spot requires a bit more skill and the right equipment but promises the thrill of a big catch. Deep-water trolling near the dam can be particularly rewarding, with the potential for trophy-size bass.
Getting to the spots
Getting to these prime fishing locations is made easy with well-maintained boat ramps at Snyder’s Run for those near the dam and dedicated launches at Shy Beaver and James Creek. Each area is equipped with facilities to ensure a great start to your fishing adventure, from ample parking to boat rentals at nearby marinas.
The fishing hotspots are also supported by nearby facilities that enhance the fishing experience. From tackle shops at Seven Points to boat rentals available at nearby marinas, anglers have access to everything they need for a successful day on the water.
Bass Fishing Restriction
It’s essential to mark your calendars for the catch-and-release-only season, running from April 8 through June 9. This specific time frame is set aside to protect the vital spawning period of both largemouth and smallmouth bass so that they can successfully reproduce and maintain their population in the lake.
During this period, bass tournaments take a break, offering a unique opportunity for recreational anglers to enjoy the beauty and tranquility of Raystown Lake without the usual competition.
Planning Your Trip to Raystown Lake: Accommodations and Boat Rentals
As you gear up for an unforgettable bass fishing adventure at Raystown Lake, think ahead about where you’ll stay and how you’ll navigate the waters. This popular destination in Pennsylvania sees anglers and vacationers flocking to its shores, especially during the peak fishing seasons in spring and summer.
To ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable trip, early planning for accommodations and boat rentals is a must.
Accommodations
Options around Raystown Lake cater to every preference. But here’s the catch: places fill up fast! To avoid missing out on your ideal stay, it’s wise to book your accommodations months or even a year in advance. This way, you can secure your spot right by the water, making it easier to hit the lake at dawn or enjoy those serene summer nights under the stars.
Boat rentals
If you’re not bringing your own boat, Raystown Lake offers various boat rental services that can get you out on the water in no time. From pontoons for leisurely lake explorations to bass boats equipped for serious anglers, you can find the perfect vessel to suit your fishing adventure.
Just like accommodations, these rentals are in high demand. Early booking will ensure you have a boat waiting for you upon arrival.
Wrap Up Your Raystown Lake Fishing Adventure at Ridgeview Campground
After a day spent chasing bass on Raystown Lake, there’s no better place to unwind than Ridgeview Campground. Located close to the lake’s prime fishing spots, we offer daily, weekly, and seasonal sites, perfect for tent and RV campers of all sizes.
We have modern amenities available, such as full water, sewer, and electrical hookup features to make your stay comfortable. We offer free WiFi, and we have huge sports fields and playgrounds that your family will enjoy if you bring them along.
We also have boat storage available, so you can rest easy knowing your vessel is safe and ready for your next day on the water.
Choose Ridgeview Campground for a hassle-free stay where the focus is on fishing, relaxation, and making memories by the lake. Book your spot today and secure your base camp for the ultimate Raystown Lake fishing adventure!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Raystown Lake good for fishing?
Absolutely! Raystown Lake is renowned for its exceptional bass fishing, offering a variety of species, including striped bass, largemouth, and smallmouth bass, among others. Its diverse habitats and ample fishing spots make it a top choice for anglers.
What is the biggest fish in Raystown Lake?
The lake is home to a variety of large fish, but the striped bass often steals the spotlight. The Pennsylvania state record for a landlocked striped bass, weighing 53 pounds, 12 ounces, was caught in Raystown Lake.
When can you catch bass in PA?
Bass fishing in Pennsylvania, including Raystown Lake, is productive year-round, but the best times are during the spring and fall when the water temperatures are ideal for bass activity.
How deep is Raystown Lake in Pennsylvania?
Raystown Lake reaches depths of up to 200 feet, providing diverse fishing environments from deep water trolling areas to shallow water habitats along its shoreline.