Fishing High Point Lake
AKA: High Point Reservoir
Popular Fish Species High Point Lake, PA
Walleye Fishing
Thanks to an continued stocking program, walleye are beginning to thrive and grow large in the fertile waters of High Point Lake this year. May and June tend to be the best time for weekend anglers to catch them. During this time they tend to move shallower, closer to shore and begin spawning. Rock and gravel are preferred areas for the spawn. Other times of the year they are more likely to roam around in deeper water. As always, stay around schools of baitfish. They are eager to feed throughout the lake, but tend to concentrate around structure on points, flats and ledges off the river channels. Walleye have excellent, low-light vision which helps them find food in deep or murky water. Make an effort to be on the water during low light conditions. A proven method for catching walleye here is trolling with spinners tipped with live bait, or trolling with long-billed, deep diving crankbaits. However casting live bait, jigs, worms and spoons also works well at times. When the lake freezes over in winter, ice fishing for walleye can be very productive. Use GPS to locate spots you normally fish during other times of the year.
Northern Pike Fishing
Northern pike are voracious feeders and they have the tools necessary to catch and eat pretty much any food source in the lake. Northerns are very agile and powerful, plus they have big mouths with very sharp teeth. They are currently thriving in the cool waters of High Point Lake. This year they are being caught in good quantity and some mighty big sizes. April and May are the best months of the year for northern pike fishing here. Summer is spotty but pike can be caught all summer long. Fall can also be good sometimes stretching into October. Large, flashy lures that mimic the bait they prey upon are great lures for northerns. Effective lures include spoons, spinners, and crankbaits, particularly those with bright colors or metallic finishes to attract the pike's attention. Additionally, big flies, soft plastic swimbaits and jerkbaits can be successful, especially when retrieved erratically to mimic wounded prey. Trolling along weed edges can often entice strikes. When the lake has safe ice in winter, ice fishing for northern pike can be quite thrilling. Use GPS to locate spots you normally find northern pike holding during summer. Portable fish finders can also be a big help.
Largemouth Bass Fishing
High Point Lake is considered a good bass fishing lakes, especially since powered motor boats are not allowed on the lake. Anglers are catching bass in good numbers with largemouth bass in the 4 to 6-pound range showing up with some regularity. A history of careful fisheries management by the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission has helped to maintain a thriving bass fishery. Anglers can also catch smallmouth bass, which reside here in decent numbers. Recent results by bass fishing tournament participants, attest to the fact that fishing for largemouth bass has been quite rewarding, with an occasional bass over 6 pounds being weighed in. In High Point Lake, bass often move shallow and become fairly aggressive when they are in a feeding mood. If they seem disinterested in your presentations, try slowing down and use smaller, lighter baits. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap. Around grass, use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In deeper water, drop shot rigs, big worms, jigs and spoons are good options. In winter, spend your time fishing deeper structure where the bass spend much of their time. In winter when the lake freezes over and the ice is safe, bass can be caught while ice fishing.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, black crappie, walleye, bluegill, green sunfish, pumpkinseed sunfish, rock bass, yellow perch, chain pickerel and northern pike at High Point Reservoir in Pennsylvania.
High Point Lake Fishing Video
Restricted to non-powered, or electric motor boats, High Point Lake is an ideal getaway for anglers who enjoy fishing from canoes or kayaks. This 350-acre lake in the southwest part of the state offers fishing for bass, crappie, walleye, chain pickerel, northern pike and sunfish. The area has no camping or fishing related amenities, however there are two nice boat launch ramps - one on each side of the lake. In winter, ice fishing for bass, crappie, walleye, bluegill, perch and northern pike can be well worth the effort.
High Point Lake, located in the Laurel Highlands region of Pennsylvania, is a hidden gem for fishing enthusiasts seeking a peaceful angling experience. Spanning over 338 acres, this serene lake offers excellent fishing opportunities for a variety of species. Anglers are drawn to High Point Lake to target popular fish such as largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, walleye, northern pike, muskellunge, catfish, and panfish like crappie and bluegill. The lake's diverse structure, including submerged structures, rocky areas, and weed beds, provides a thriving habitat for these species, ensuring an exciting and rewarding fishing adventure.
Boating is a popular activity on High Point Lake, offering visitors the chance to explore its tranquil waters and access prime fishing spots. The lake allows for electric-powered boats, making it perfect for a peaceful boating experience. Boaters can launch their own vessels at the lake's boat ramps or enjoy paddling on kayaks and canoes. Navigating along the scenic shoreline, discovering hidden coves, or simply enjoying a leisurely cruise are all possibilities for boaters on High Point Lake.
Camping opportunities are available near High Point Lake, allowing visitors to extend their stay and fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. Nearby camping options provide tent and RV sites, offering a range of accommodations for campers. Camping at High Point Lake allows visitors to wake up to the sounds of nature, enjoy lakeside picnics, and revel in the peaceful ambiance of the surroundings.
As visitors explore High Point Lake and its surrounding area, they can immerse themselves in the scenic beauty that encompasses the region. The lake is nestled within the lush landscapes of the Laurel Highlands, offering picturesque views of rolling hills and dense forests. Nature enthusiasts can explore nearby hiking trails, go birdwatching, or simply relax by the lakeshore and appreciate the tranquility of the surroundings.
High Point Lake, with its diverse fish species, peaceful boating opportunities, and nearby camping facilities, provides a serene retreat for outdoor enthusiasts in Pennsylvania. Whether one seeks a rewarding fishing experience, a leisurely boating adventure, or a tranquil camping getaway, High Point Lake offers an idyllic setting to connect with nature and enjoy the serenity of this picturesque destination.
Primary fish species residing in High Point Lake
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
High Point Reservoir Amenities
Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: NO
RV Hookups: NO
Lodging: NO
Convenience Store: NO
Bait & Tackle: NEARBY
Restaurant: NO
Today's Weather & Forecast
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
North Access Boat Ramp
Located in the northeast sector of the lake, on the north shore, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with paved parking for a dozen vehicles with boat trailers.
South Access Boat Ramp
Located in the mid section of the lake, on the south shore, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with paved parking for fifteen vehicles with boat trailers.
Fishing License
Click here for a Pennsylvania Fishing License.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
No camping nearby
High Point Lake PA Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
High Point Lake
Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission
Somerset County
Pennsylvania
866 262-8734
Fishing lakes in each state.
072824
High Point Reservoir in Pennsylvania.
PENNSYLVANIA
Sunfish, crappie, walleye and pike fishing in southwest PA.