Raystown Lake Fishing Guide

Raystown Lake Fishing Guide

Welcome, fellow anglers! Are you ready for an incredible fishing adventure at one of Pennsylvania’s premier fishing destinations? Let’s dive into everything you need to know about fishing at Raystown Lake, located in beautiful Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania. This guide will cover lake details, the types of fish you can catch, the best baits and lures to use, top fishing spots, tips and tricks, rave reviews from other anglers, and nearby RV parks for your stay. So, grab your gear, and let’s get started!

About Raystown Lake Fishing

Raystown Lake is a stunning man-made reservoir created by the Raystown Dam on the Raystown Branch of the Juniata River. This lake is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of fish species and scenic beauty. Whether you’re an experienced angler or just starting, Raystown Lake provides an excellent fishing experience for everyone. The lake is managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and is known for its clear waters, abundant fish population, and numerous recreational activities.

Raystown Lake Fishing Details

Here’s a quick overview of Raystown Lake’s essential details:

• Water Surface: 8,300 acres
• Shoreline: 118 miles
• Average Depth: 80 feet
• Max Depth: 200 feet
• Surface Elevation: 791 feet
• Location: Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania
• Coordinates: 40.3642° N, 78.1591° W
• Accessibility: Multiple boat ramps, marinas, and shore access points
• Type of Lake: Reservoir
• Lake Amenities:
  • Boat rentals
  • Fishing piers
  • Picnic areas
  • Hiking trails
  • Campgrounds
  • Restrooms
  • Swimming beaches

Types of Fish in Raystown Lake

Raystown Lake is home to a variety of fish species, making it a great spot for anglers looking for diverse fishing experiences. Here’s a detailed rundown of the most common fish you can catch here and where you might find them:

1. Striped Bass:
   • Where to Find: Often found in deeper waters, especially near the dam. Best caught during early morning and late evening.
2. Largemouth Bass:
   • Where to Find: Typically located around weed beds, docks, and fallen trees. Summer is the prime season.
3. Smallmouth Bass:
   • Where to Find: Found around rocky areas and deeper parts of the lake. Look near the dam and in areas with strong currents.
4. Channel Catfish:
   • Where to Find: Common in deeper waters and around the dam. Night fishing works well.
5. Walleye:
   • Where to Find: Typically found in deeper parts of the lake, especially near the dam and drop-offs. They are more active during low-light conditions.
6. Bluegill:
   • Where to Find: Found near shorelines, especially in areas with vegetation. Summer is great for bluegill fishing.
7. Crappie:
   • Where to Find: Look for crappie around submerged brush piles and structures. Spring is ideal.
8. Muskellunge:
   • Where to Find: Found in open waters and near structures. Late summer and early fall are best.
9. Brown Trout:
   • Where to Find: Typically found in deeper, cooler waters. Spring and fall are the best seasons.

Best Fishing Baits, Lures, and Tackle Recommendations for Raystown Lake Fishing

To increase your chances of a successful fishing trip, here are some recommended baits, lures, and tackle for each type of fish in Raystown Lake:

1. Striped Bass:
   • Baits: Live shad, alewives
   • Lures: Jigs, crankbaits, topwater lures
   • Tackle: Medium-heavy spinning rod and reel
   • Tips: Use fish finders to locate schools of stripers in deeper waters.
2. Largemouth Bass:
   • Baits: Plastic worms, live shiners
   • Lures: Topwater lures, spinnerbaits, crankbaits
   • Tackle: Medium-heavy baitcasting rod and reel
   • Tips: Fish around weed beds and fallen trees using a slow retrieval technique.
3. Smallmouth Bass:
   • Baits: Live minnows, nightcrawlers
   • Lures: Jigs, tube baits, jerkbaits
   • Tackle: Medium rod, 6-12 lb test line
   • Tips: Focus on rocky areas and use a jigging motion to attract smallmouth bass.
4. Channel Catfish:
   • Baits: Chicken liver, stink baits
   • Lures: Catfish rigs
   • Tackle: Heavy spinning or baitcasting rod and reel
   • Tips: Fish at night or early morning and use strong-smelling baits to attract catfish.
5. Walleye:
   • Baits: Live minnows, nightcrawlers
   • Lures: Jigs, crankbaits, spinner rigs
   • Tackle: Medium rod, 8-12 lb test line
   • Tips: Fish during low-light conditions and use a slow trolling technique with crankbaits.
6. Bluegill:
   • Baits: Worms, crickets
   • Lures: Small spinners, flies
   • Tackle: Ultralight spinning rod and reel
   • Tips: Use small hooks and light tackle for better success, especially in shallow areas.
7. Crappie:
   • Baits: Minnows, small jigs
   • Lures: Tube jigs, small spinnerbaits
   • Tackle: Light spinning rod and reel
   • Tips: Fish around submerged structures and use a slow vertical jigging technique.
8. Muskellunge:
   • Baits: Large minnows
   • Lures: Bucktail spinners, jerkbaits
   • Tackle: Heavy baitcasting rod and reel
   • Tips: Use large lures and fish in open waters near structures.
9. Brown Trout:
   • Baits: Nightcrawlers, minnows
   • Lures: Spinners, spoons, crankbaits
   • Tackle: Medium-light spinning rod and reel
   • Tips: Fish in cooler, deeper waters during the warmer months.

Best Fishing Spot Locations at Raystown Lake Fishing

Raystown Lake offers several prime fishing spots where you’re likely to have success. Here are some of the top locations with more detailed information:

1. The Dam Area:
   • Details: This is a hotspot for striped bass, walleye, and channel catfish. The deeper waters and rocky structure make it an ideal habitat for these species. Try fishing during low-light conditions for the best results.
2. Weed Beds Near the Shoreline:
   • Details: These areas are great for largemouth bass, bluegill, and crappie. Look for spots with submerged vegetation, especially along the eastern shoreline. Early morning and late evening are the best times to fish here.
3. Submerged Brush Piles:
   • Details: Crappie love these areas. You’ll find several submerged brush piles scattered throughout the lake, particularly in the northern parts. Spring and fall are the best seasons for crappie fishing.
4. Drop-Offs:
   • Details: These are excellent spots for catching walleye and smallmouth bass. Look for areas where the depth changes suddenly, especially near the dam and northern parts of the lake. Slow trolling with crankbaits works well here.
5. Boat Docks:
   • Details: These structures provide shelter for various fish species, including crappie and bluegill. They are often found near the marina and boat rental areas. Try fishing during the day for the best results.

Fishing Tips and Recommendations for Raystown Lake Fishing

To make the most of your fishing trip to Raystown Lake, here are some tips and recommendations:

1. Time of Day: Early morning and late evening are the best times to fish, as many species are more active during these hours.
2. Seasonal Patterns: Spring and fall are the best seasons for fishing, as fish are more active and feeding more aggressively. Summer can also be good, especially for bass and catfish.
3. Weather Conditions: Overcast days are ideal for fishing, as fish are more likely to be near the surface. Windy conditions can also be good, as they stir up the water and make fish more active.
4. Fishing License: Make sure you have a valid Pennsylvania fishing license before you start fishing. You can purchase one online or at local bait shops.
5. Catch and Release: Practice catch and release to help maintain the fish population and ensure future generations can enjoy fishing at Raystown Lake. Handle fish gently and release them quickly back into the water.
6. Fishing Gear: Make sure to bring the appropriate gear for the fish species you’re targeting. This includes rods, reels, lines, hooks, and lures. Having a variety of baits and lures will increase your chances of success.
7. Safety First: Always wear a life jacket when boating, and let someone know your fishing plans. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and snacks to stay hydrated and energized throughout the day.

Raystown Lake Fishing Reviews

Here are five positive fishing reviews from fellow anglers who have enjoyed their time at Raystown Lake:

1. Tom W. from Altoona, PA: “Raystown Lake is my go-to spot for striped bass fishing. The dam area is always productive, and I’ve caught some of my biggest fish here!”
2. Emily S. from Harrisburg, PA: “Raystown Lake is a great place for a family fishing trip. My kids love catching bluegill near the shore, and we always have a picnic afterward. Highly recommend!”
3. Mike R. from Pittsburgh, PA: “The crappie fishing at Raystown Lake is excellent, especially in the spring. I’ve had great success around the submerged brush piles.”
4. Sarah T. from Philadelphia, PA: “I love catfishing at Raystown Lake. The night fishing is incredible, and I’ve caught some big channel catfish near the dam. It’s a peaceful and relaxing place to fish.”
5. Dave H. from Reading, PA: “Raystown Lake has a great variety of fish species. I’ve caught striped bass, smallmouth bass, and even a couple of muskies. The lake is well-maintained, and the scenery is beautiful.”

Top-Rated Closest RV Parks, RV Resorts, and Campgrounds for Raystown Lake Fishing

If you’re planning to stay overnight, here are five top-rated RV parks and campgrounds near Raystown Lake:

1. Seven Points Campground:
   • Features: Scenic views, hiking trails, boat rentals
   • Amenities: Restrooms, showers, picnic tables, fire rings
   • Hookups: Electric only
   • Distance to Lake: Within walking distance
2. Raystown Lake Resort:
   • Features: Full hookups, swimming pool, playground, boat ramp
   • Amenities: Restrooms, showers, laundry facilities, camp store
   • Hookups: Water, electric, sewer
   • Distance to Lake: 2 miles
3. Piney Ridge Campground:
   • Features: Fishing access, playground, nature trails
   • Amenities: Restrooms, showers, laundry facilities
   • Hookups: Water, electric
   • Distance to Lake: 3 miles
4. Lake Raystown Family Camping Resort:
   • Features: Full hookups, swimming pool, fishing pond
   • Amenities: Restrooms, showers, laundry facilities, camp store
   • Hookups: Water, electric, sewer
   • Distance to Lake: 5 miles
5. Point Campground:
   • Features: Boat ramp, fishing docks, hiking trails
   • Amenities: Restrooms, showers, picnic areas, playground
   • Hookups: Water, electric
   • Distance to Lake: 1 mile

Raystown Lake Fishing Summary

Raystown Lake is a fantastic fishing destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re targeting striped bass, crappie, catfish, or bluegill, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to reel in a big one. The lake’s beautiful surroundings, excellent amenities, and diverse fish population make it a top choice for anglers of all skill levels. Don’t forget to check out the nearby RV parks and campgrounds for a comfortable stay during your fishing trip. So grab your fishing gear, head to Raystown Lake, and get ready for an unforgettable fishing adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions for Raystown Lake Fishing

1. Do I need a fishing license to fish at Raystown Lake?
   • Yes, you need a valid Pennsylvania fishing license to fish at Raystown Lake. You can purchase one online or at local bait shops.
2. Can I rent a boat at Raystown Lake?
   • Yes, there are boat rentals available at Raystown Lake, including rowboats, canoes, kayaks, and paddleboats.
3. Is Raystown Lake open year-round for fishing?
   • Yes, Raystown Lake is open year-round for fishing, but the best fishing seasons are spring and fall.
4. Are there any special fishing regulations at Raystown Lake?
   • Yes, be sure to check the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission’s regulations for specific rules regarding size and creel limits for different fish species.
5. Can I fish from the shore at Raystown Lake?
   • Yes, there are several designated fishing piers and accessible shorelines where you can fish from the shore at Raystown Lake.

Happy fishing, and I hope you have a great time at Raystown Lake!