Fishing Octoraro Lake
AKA: Lake Octoraro
Popular Fish Species Octoraro Lake, PA
Largemouth Bass Fishing
Currently, largemouth bass are thriving in Octoraro Lake due to excellent fisheries management and plenty of cover for both baitfish and bass. Fishing for largemouth bass is good virtually any time they are shallow - in spring, mornings in summer, and during warm Fall afternoons. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap. Around grass use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In deeper water, big worms, jigs and spoons are three good weapons. In winter, spend your time on deeper structure. Smallmouth bass also reside here in good numbers.
White Crappie Fishing
Plenty of healthy white crappie reside in Octoraro Lake, as they are making a nice comeback this year. The fish population is healthy and crappie fishing is excellent. Crappie always like cover and structure, so locate shallow brush and vegetation in Spring and Fall focusing on the 8 to 12 foot range. As the crappie move deep in summer and winter, follow points out to as deep as 30 to 35 feet, as well as ledges near channels at these depths. Live bait and small jigs are the most common method for crappie here.
Channel Catfish Fishing
A healthy population of channel cats populate the waters of Octoraro Lake, and can be caught all around the lake. In Spring channel cats migrate toward incoming water, so stay up river away from the main lake. Night fishing for channel catfish often delivers better results than fishing during the day. In early summer look for rocky banks, the bigger the rocks the better. In summer and winter deeper structure is where to look. Fishing for channel catfish is often productive around any kind of structure in the area. Road beds, creek channels and rocky points are all good places to begin. Use a slip sinker or Carolina rig with popular catfish baits. Other catfish in the lake include flathead and blue catfish.
Octoraro Lake Fishing Video
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, white catfish, white crappie, bluegill, white perch and yellow perch at Octoraro Lake in Pennsylvania.
Home to numerous bass tournaments, Octoraro Lake is a 620-acre lake near the southern border of the state. Much of the 10 miles of shoreline is accessible for bank fishing. Two boat launch ramps serve boaters. The lake is restricted to electric motors only, and is popular for kayaking, canoeing, sailing, and in winter ice boating. Bass, catfish, crappie, muskie and sunfish are popular species, most of which can also be caught in winter - ice fishing.
Octoraro Lake, located in Octoraro Lake Recreation Area in southeastern Pennsylvania, is a hidden gem for fishing enthusiasts seeking a serene angling experience. Spanning over 600 acres, this picturesque lake offers excellent fishing opportunities for a variety of species. Anglers are drawn to Octoraro Lake to target popular fish such as largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie, walleye, channel and white catfish, and panfish like bluegill and perch. The lake's diverse underwater structure, including submerged vegetation, rocky areas, and drop-offs, provides a thriving habitat for these species, ensuring an exciting and rewarding fishing adventure.
Octoraro Lake, with its diverse fish species, boating opportunities, and camping amenities, offers a serene retreat for outdoor enthusiasts in Pennsylvania. Whether one seeks a rewarding fishing experience, a leisurely boating adventure, or a peaceful camping getaway, Octoraro Lake and Octoraro Lake Recreation Area provide an ideal setting to connect with nature and enjoy the serenity of this picturesque destination.
Primary fish species residing in Octoraro Lake
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Octoraro Lake Amenities
Marina: NO
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES, two
Campgrounds: NEARBY
RV Hookups: NEARBY
Lodging: NEARBY
Convenience Store: NEARBY
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: NEARBY
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boating is a popular activity on Octoraro Lake, providing visitors with the opportunity to explore its tranquil waters and access prime fishing spots. The lake allows for electric-powered boats, creating a peaceful and eco-friendly boating experience. Boaters can bring their own vessels or rent boats from nearby marinas. Whether sailing, kayaking, or canoeing, boaters can navigate through the lake's calm waters, discover hidden coves, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding landscape.
Fishing Boat Rentals
Jim Neary's Bait & Tackle
Rentals: Motorboats, rowboats, canoes and kayaks
717 529-2488
Marinas
Jim Neary's Bait & Tackle
212 Spruce Grove Rd
Kirkwood, PA 17536
717 529-2488
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Octoraro Lake Boat Launch
Located in the northwest corner of the lake, off Spruce Cove Road, this is a two-lane, gravel ramp with docks and gravel parking.
Fishing Guides On Octoraro Lake
If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.
Fishing License
Click here for a Pennsylvania Fishing License.
Camping options are available within Octoraro Lake Recreation Area, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. The recreation area offers both tent and RV camping sites, as well as cabins for those seeking a more comfortable experience. Camping at Octoraro Lake provides the opportunity to wake up to the sounds of nature, enjoy lakeside activities, and go fishing for the day.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
Oma's Family Campground - 717 529-2020
Octoraro Lake PA Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Octoraro Lake
Jim Neary's Bait & Tackle
212 Spruce Grove Road
Kirkwood, PA 17536
717 529-2488
Fishing lakes in each state.
031824
Octoraro Lake in PA
PENNSYLVANIA
Fishing for bass, crappie and tiger muskie in southern PA
