Pennsylvania · Fishing
Fishing in Lehman Township, Pennsylvania
Lehman Township sits in the rolling terrain of Luzerne County, and its fishing options are almost entirely still-water — five lakes and ponds that range from the larger Pikes Creek Reservoir down to smaller neighborhood-scale spots like Minks Pond, Third Pond, and Penn State Pond.
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Lehman Township sits in the rolling terrain of Luzerne County, and its fishing options are almost entirely still-water — five lakes and ponds that range from the larger Pikes Creek Reservoir down to smaller neighborhood-scale spots like Minks Pond, Third Pond, and Penn State Pond. Sunny Hill Lake rounds out the list. That mix means you can pick your pace: shore-fish a quiet pond for a few hours or spend a full day working the reservoir's deeper structure. None of these waters are fast-moving, so you're looking at species typical of Pennsylvania warmwater and mixed lakes — largemouth bass, panfish, and stocked trout in season depending on which water you're targeting. Access points and parking vary by site, so it's worth confirming current conditions with the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission before you go, especially for the smaller ponds where shoulder-season access can be limited. A basic Pennsylvania fishing license is required for anyone 16 and older at all of these locations. The area doesn't draw the crowds you'd find at bigger regional destinations, which is part of the appeal — you can usually find a quiet stretch of bank even on a weekend.
Frequently asked questions
Which water is the largest and best suited for a full day of fishing?
Pikes Creek Reservoir is the most substantial body of water on this list and gives you the most room to explore different structure and depths. The smaller ponds — Minks Pond, Third Pond, and Penn State Pond — are better suited for a shorter outing or if you want a low-pressure, easy-access spot.
What species can I realistically expect to catch here?
The lakes and ponds in Lehman Township are typical Pennsylvania warmwater fisheries, so largemouth bass and panfish like bluegill and crappie are your most consistent targets. Stocked trout are a possibility at some waters during the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission's spring and fall stocking seasons, but you should check the PFBC's current stocking reports to confirm which specific waters are receiving fish before you plan a trip around it.
What gear setup makes sense for these waters?
A light to medium spinning rod covers most situations across these ponds and lakes. For bass, soft plastics, small crankbaits, and weedless rigs work well around shoreline cover. For panfish, a simple bobber-and-worm setup is hard to beat, and it's a good option if you're bringing kids along.
What time of day is best for fishing here?
Early morning and the hour or two before sunset are consistently the most productive windows at still-water fisheries like these, particularly for bass. Midday in summer tends to push fish deeper or into shaded cover, so if you're fishing midday, slow down your presentation and work structure rather than open water.
Do I need a license, and are there any access fees?
A valid Pennsylvania fishing license is required for anyone 16 and older at all of these locations. Access fees depend on the specific site — Penn State Pond, for example, may have conditions tied to its location, so it's worth checking ahead. The PFBC website is the most reliable place to confirm current access rules and any special regulations before you go.
