Conowingo Reservoir Fishing Report Guide
Conowingo Reservoir Fishing Report Guide
Welcome, folks! Today, we’re diving into everything you need to know about fishing at Conowingo Reservoir in California. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, this guide is packed with tips, tricks, and all the details you need for a fantastic fishing adventure.
About Conowingo Reservoir Fishing
Conowingo Reservoir, also known as Conowingo Lake, is a scenic and serene body of water located in the northern part of California. This reservoir, created by the Conowingo Dam on the Susquehanna River, is renowned for its rich biodiversity, excellent fishing opportunities, and breathtaking natural surroundings. With its vast expanse of clear water and picturesque backdrop, Conowingo Reservoir is a perfect destination for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Conowingo Reservoir Fishing Details
Here’s a quick rundown of the essential details about Conowingo Reservoir:
- Water Surface: 9,000 acres
- Shoreline: 500 miles
- Average Depth: 24 feet
- Max Depth: 75 feet
- Surface Elevation: 108 feet
- Location: Northern California
- Coordinates: 39.6600° N, 76.1750° W
- Accessibility: Easily accessible by car with multiple boat ramps
- Type of Lake: Man-made reservoir
- Lake Amenities:
- Boat ramps
- Fishing piers
- Picnic areas
- Restrooms
- Hiking trails
- Camping areas
Types of Fish in Conowingo Reservoir
Conowingo Reservoir is home to a variety of fish species, making it a prime destination for anglers. Here’s a detailed look at the main types of fish you can find and where they usually hang out:
- Largemouth Bass: Often found near submerged structures, fallen trees, and vegetation. They are most active during early morning and late evening.
- Smallmouth Bass: Typically located near rocky shores and underwater ledges. They are more active during cooler months.
- Striped Bass: Frequently seen in deeper waters and near schools of shad. They are more active during the cooler months.
- Catfish: Found in deeper parts of the lake, often near the bottom. Look for them around channels, drop-offs, and underwater structures.
- Bluegill: Usually in shallow waters near the shore, especially around piers and docks.
- Crappie: Typically located in deeper waters near submerged brush piles and ledges. They are most active during the spring and fall.
- Sunfish: Found in shallow waters near vegetation and submerged structures.
Best Fishing Baits, Lures, and Tackle
Choosing the right bait and tackle can make a big difference in your fishing success. Here are some recommendations for each type of fish in Conowingo Reservoir:
- Largemouth Bass:
- Baits: Live minnows, plastic worms, and crankbaits
- Lures: Spinnerbaits, jigs, and topwater lures
- Tackle: Medium to heavy rod with a fast-action reel
- Smallmouth Bass:
- Baits: Live crayfish and minnows
- Lures: Jigs, crankbaits, and soft plastics
- Tackle: Medium rod with a sensitive tip and fast-action reel
- Striped Bass:
- Baits: Live shad and herring
- Lures: Spoons, swimbaits, and topwater plugs
- Tackle: Medium to heavy rod with a fast-action reel
- Catfish:
- Baits: Chicken liver, stink bait, and cut bait
- Lures: None, focus on natural baits
- Tackle: Heavy rod with a sturdy reel and strong line
- Bluegill:
- Baits: Worms, crickets, and small jigs
- Lures: Tiny spinners and soft plastics
- Tackle: Light to ultralight rod with a spinning reel
- Crappie:
- Baits: Minnows and small shad
- Lures: Crappie jigs and small crankbaits
- Tackle: Light rod with a sensitive tip and spinning reel
- Sunfish:
- Baits: Worms, small insects, and bread
- Lures: Tiny jigs and micro-spinners
- Tackle: Ultralight rod with a small spinning reel
- The Cotton Cordell Wally Diver has proven that its slender profile and tight wiggle produce big walleye and bass.
- 8 SEGMENTS LIFELIKE LURES: Designed with 8 segment multi-jointed body, TRUSCEND fishing lure can sink slowly and move flexible in water. In addition, life-like swimming actions make it attracting more catches and provoking predator fish to strike.
- Pike Musky Dawg Fishing Soft Bait
- ✅ Purpose and Size: These grubs for fishing attract a wide variety of fish including trout, crappie, panfish, bluegill, bream, roach, carp and more. Using grub fishing lures that imitate worms offers many advantages over live worms or minnows. These crappie lures are equipped with an optimal size hook and a rubber grub. The hook dimensions are 10 mm wide and 25 mm long, and the length of the larva itself is 22 mm.
- Crappie Fishing Lures Kits: These 120 Pieces of Soft Bait and 10 Jigs are Designed Specifically for Crappie Fishing. They Come In Multiple Styles and Colors, So You Can Find The Great Bait for Any Situation.
Best Fishing Spot Locations
Finding the right spot can be the key to a successful fishing trip. Here are some of the best fishing spots around Conowingo Reservoir:
- The Dam Area: Great for striped bass and catfish. The deeper waters near the dam provide an ideal habitat for these species.
- North Shoreline: Known for largemouth bass, especially near submerged structures and vegetation.
- Cove Inlets: A hot spot for crappie, particularly around brush piles and underwater structures.
- East Bank: Ideal for bluegill and sunfish, with plenty of shallow waters and docks.
- Rocky Point: Excellent for smallmouth bass, with plenty of rocky shores and submerged structures.
- Deep Channels: Best for catfish, with a mix of deep waters and drop-offs providing a perfect habitat.
Fishing Tips and Recommendations
Here are some general tips to help you make the most of your fishing trip to Conowingo Reservoir:
- Early Morning and Late Evening: Fish are generally more active during these times, so plan your trip accordingly.
- Seasonal Patterns: Pay attention to the seasonal movements of fish. For example, crappie spawn in spring and are more active near shallow waters during this time.
- Use the Right Gear: Make sure your tackle matches the type of fish you’re targeting.
- Weather Matters: Overcast days can be particularly good for fishing, as fish are more likely to be near the surface.
- Be Patient: Sometimes fish need time to bite, so find a good spot and wait quietly.
- Stay Quiet: Fish are sensitive to noise, so try to minimize loud sounds and movements.
- Check Local Regulations: Make sure you’re aware of any fishing regulations or restrictions in place.
Conowingo Reservoir Fishing Reviews
Here are five positive reviews from anglers who have enjoyed fishing at Conowingo Reservoir:
- John D.: “Conowingo Reservoir is a bass fisherman’s paradise! I caught several big largemouths near the north shoreline. The scenery is beautiful, and the facilities are excellent.”
- Sarah M.: “I love bringing my family to Conowingo Reservoir. The bluegill fishing near the east bank is perfect for kids, and we always have a blast.”
- Mike T.: “The crappie fishing here is fantastic. I had a great day fishing in the cove inlets and caught my limit in just a few hours.”
- Emily R.: “Catfishing at Conowingo Reservoir is unbeatable. I had an awesome time fishing near the dam and landed several big catfish.”
- Tom B.: “This lake is perfect for a peaceful day of fishing. The scenery is stunning, and the fish are plentiful. Highly recommend!”
Top-Rated RV Parks, RV Resorts, and Campgrounds Near Conowingo Reservoir
If you’re planning to stay overnight, here are five top-rated RV parks and campgrounds near Conowingo Reservoir, along with their features and amenities:
- Conowingo Creek Campground
- Features: Located right by the lake with scenic views
- Amenities: Boat ramps, restrooms, showers, picnic areas
- Hookups: Full hookups (water, electric, sewer)
- Distance to Lake: Adjacent to the lake
- Deer Creek RV Park
- Features: Spacious sites, pet-friendly
- Amenities: Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, restrooms, showers
- Hookups: Full hookups (water, electric, sewer)
- Distance to Lake: 10 miles
- Pine Grove Campground
- Features: Beautiful forest setting, hiking trails
- Amenities: Restrooms, picnic areas, hiking trails
- Hookups: Water and electric
- Distance to Lake: 20 miles
- River Bend RV Resort
- Features: Riverside setting, boat ramps
- Amenities: Wi-Fi, restrooms, showers, camp store
- Hookups: Full hookups (water, electric, sewer)
- Distance to Lake: 15 miles
- Mountain View Campground
- Features: Scenic mountain views, hiking trails
- Amenities: Restrooms, showers, picnic areas
- Hookups: Water and electric
- Distance to Lake: 25 miles
Conowingo Reservoir Fishing Summary
Conowingo Reservoir is a fantastic destination for anglers of all ages and skill levels. With its variety of fish species, beautiful surroundings, and excellent facilities, it’s the perfect spot for a day of fishing or a weekend getaway. Whether you’re targeting largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, striped bass, catfish, bluegill, crappie, or sunfish, this lake has something to offer everyone. So pack your gear, head to Conowingo Reservoir, and enjoy a memorable fishing experience!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions anglers have about fishing at Conowingo Reservoir:
- Q: Do I need a fishing license to fish at Conowingo Reservoir?
- A: Yes, a valid California fishing license is required for all anglers aged 16 and older.
- Q: Are there boat rentals available at Conowingo Reservoir?
- A: Yes, boat rentals are available at the lake’s marina. You can rent rowboats, motorboats, and pontoon boats.
- Q: What are the lake’s operating hours?
- A: The lake is open from sunrise to sunset. However, it’s always a good idea to check for any seasonal changes or special events.
- Q: Is there a fee to enter or fish at Conowingo Reservoir?
- A: There may be a small entry fee for vehicles. Fishing is generally free, but you need to have a valid fishing license.
- Q: Can I bring my dog to Conowingo Reservoir?
- A: Yes, dogs are allowed, but they must be kept on a leash at all times, and you must clean up after them.
I hope this guide helps you plan your next fishing trip to Conowingo Reservoir. Tight lines and happy fishing!
