Pennsylvania · Fishing
Fishing in Pocono Woodland Lakes, Pennsylvania
Fishing in Pocono Woodland Lakes centers on a small cluster of private community lakes, with Van Auken Lake and Pocono Woodlands Lake making up the bulk of what's available here.
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Fishing in Pocono Woodland Lakes centers on a small cluster of private community lakes, with Van Auken Lake and Pocono Woodlands Lake making up the bulk of what's available here. Van Auken Lake, managed by the PWLPOA, shows up repeatedly in local listings and is clearly the most active fishing destination in the area. Gold Key Lake rounds out the options for anglers with access. These are calm, warmwater lakes suited to casual fishing — think bass, panfish, and pickerel rather than trout streams. Because all the fishable water here sits within private residential communities, access is the first thing you need to sort out before you pack a rod. If you're a property owner or guest of one, you're in good shape. If you're visiting from outside the community, check current PWLPOA rules before assuming you can fish. The fishing itself is low-key and well-suited to families, beginners, and anyone who wants a quiet morning on the water without driving to a state park. Kayaks and small boats are a practical way to work the shorelines on these lakes, and bank fishing is viable where community access points allow.
Frequently asked questions
Who can fish Van Auken Lake and the other PWLPOA lakes?
These lakes are managed by the Pocono Woodland Lakes Property Owners Association, so fishing access is generally tied to community membership or being a guest of a property owner. If you're renting a cabin or staying with a resident, confirm with your host that fishing privileges are included. Outside visitors without a community connection should contact PWLPOA directly before making the trip.
What species can I expect to catch at these lakes?
The lakes here are warmwater fisheries, so largemouth bass, bluegill, pumpkinseed, and chain pickerel are the most realistic targets. There is no gold medal or wild trout water designation associated with these listings, so don't plan the trip around trout unless you get current stocking information directly from PWLPOA or the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission.
Do I need a Pennsylvania fishing license to fish here?
Yes. Pennsylvania state fishing license requirements apply regardless of whether the water is privately managed. Anyone 16 or older needs a valid PA fishing license. You can purchase one through the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission website or at local license vendors before you arrive.
What are the best times to fish Van Auken Lake or Pocono Woodlands Lake?
Early morning and the hour or two before sunset are consistently the most productive windows on warmwater lakes like these, especially for bass and pickerel. Late spring through early fall is the most active season overall. Midsummer midday fishing tends to slow down as water temperatures rise and fish move deeper or into shaded structure.
What gear makes sense for fishing these lakes?
Light to medium spinning tackle covers most situations here. For bass and pickerel, soft plastics, small spinnerbaits, and topwater lures in the early morning work well along weed edges and shoreline structure. Bluegill and panfish respond to small jigs, worms, or live bait under a bobber. A kayak or canoe is useful for reaching quieter coves, but check with PWLPOA on any watercraft rules specific to each lake.
