Pennsylvania · Fishing
Fishing in Long Pond, Pennsylvania
Long Pond, Pennsylvania sits in the Pocono highlands, and the fishing around it leans almost entirely toward still water.
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Long Pond, Pennsylvania sits in the Pocono highlands, and the fishing around it leans almost entirely toward still water. The three lakes listed here — Tamaque Lake, Halfmoon Lake, and Sunset Pond — are all lake fisheries, which means you're casting from shore or a small boat rather than wading a current. That shapes everything from your gear choices to your timing. The Poconos generally hold warmwater species like largemouth bass, pickerel, and panfish in lakes like these, though the specific mix at each water body can vary. None of the waters in this listing are designated gold medal or wild trout waters, so if you're chasing trophy trout specifically, you'll want to look elsewhere in Monroe County. What you do get here is accessible, low-pressure lake fishing that works well for anglers of most skill levels. Sunset Pond, as the name suggests, is worth an evening visit — calm-water lakes in this region tend to fish well in the low-light hours before dark. A Pennsylvania fishing license is required for anyone 16 and older, and you'll want to check the PFBC site for current stocking reports before you go.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a Pennsylvania fishing license to fish Tamaque Lake, Halfmoon Lake, or Sunset Pond?
Yes. Any angler 16 or older needs a valid Pennsylvania fishing license. You can buy one online through the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission website or at most sporting goods retailers in the area. If you're fishing during trout season, check whether a trout/salmon permit is also required for the specific water.
What species can I realistically expect to catch at these lakes?
These are warmwater lake fisheries, so largemouth bass, chain pickerel, yellow perch, and bluegill are the most common targets in Pocono-area lakes of this type. None of the three waters here carry a gold medal or wild trout designation, so don't plan the trip around trout unless you've confirmed stocking activity with the PFBC beforehand.
What's the best time of day to fish these lakes?
Early morning and the hour or two before sunset are consistently the most productive windows on still-water lakes like these, especially for bass and pickerel. Midday fishing in summer slows down as surface temperatures rise and fish push deeper or into shaded structure.
What gear setup makes sense for lake fishing here?
A medium-action spinning rod in the 6- to 7-foot range handles most situations across all three lakes. For bass and pickerel, soft plastics, spinnerbaits, and surface lures work well around weed edges and structure. If you're targeting panfish, a light rod with small jigs or live bait keeps things simple and effective.
Is there boat access at these lakes, or is it shore fishing only?
The listings here don't specify boat launch infrastructure, so it's worth calling the local Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission regional office or checking their access map before hauling a boat out. Smaller waters like Sunset Pond are often shore-fishable or suited to a kayak or canoe, but confirm access conditions before your trip.
