Pennsylvania · Fishing
Fishing in Hawley, Pennsylvania
Hawley sits in the heart of the Pocono Lakes region, and the fishing around town reflects that geography — quiet lake fishing on waters like Whitney Lake, Tinkwig Lake, and Wolf Lake, all within a short drive of the borough.
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Hawley sits in the heart of the Pocono Lakes region, and the fishing around town reflects that geography — quiet lake fishing on waters like Whitney Lake, Tinkwig Lake, and Wolf Lake, all within a short drive of the borough. These are classic northeastern Pennsylvania lake fisheries, the kind where you're casting from a rowboat or working the shoreline in the early morning before the day heats up. The lakes here tend to hold warmwater species typical of the region, and the relatively low fishing pressure compared to larger Pocono destinations means you're not fighting crowds for a good spot. Hawley itself is a practical base — there are tackle shops and outfitters nearby, and the town's position along the Lackawaxen River corridor means you're also close to moving water if you want to mix up your fishing. Whether you're a weekend angler looking for a relaxed lake outing or someone building a longer Pocono fishing trip, the lakes around Hawley offer accessible, low-key options that don't require a lot of advance logistics to pull off.
Frequently asked questions
Which lakes near Hawley are included on this page?
This page covers Whitney Lake, Tinkwig Lake, and Wolf Lake — all lake fishing destinations in the Hawley area. Each offers shoreline and boat access, though conditions and amenities vary by location, so it's worth checking the individual listing for each lake before you head out.
What species can I expect to catch in these lakes?
The lakes around Hawley are typical of northeastern Pennsylvania warmwater fisheries, meaning you're likely to encounter largemouth bass, pickerel, perch, and panfish. The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission stocks many Pocono-area lakes seasonally, so checking the PFBC stocking reports before your trip will tell you whether trout have been added to a specific water body recently.
Do I need a Pennsylvania fishing license to fish these lakes?
Yes. Anyone 16 or older needs a valid Pennsylvania fishing license to fish any of these lakes. If you're targeting trout during trout season, you'll also need a current trout/salmon permit. Licenses are available online through the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission or at local sporting goods retailers.
What's the best time of day to fish these lakes?
Early morning and late afternoon are consistently the most productive windows for lake fishing in this region. Bass and pickerel tend to feed actively in low-light conditions, and surface activity is usually highest in the first two hours after sunrise. Midday fishing in summer can slow down significantly as water temperatures rise.
What gear should I bring for lake fishing around Hawley?
A medium-action spinning rod in the 6- to 7-foot range covers most situations on these lakes. For bass and pickerel, soft plastics, spinnerbaits, and topwater lures all produce. If you're after panfish or perch, a lighter setup with small jigs or live bait works well. Bring polarized sunglasses — they make a real difference for reading the water and spotting structure along the shoreline.
