What Opossum Lake Offers
Opossum Lake is a small, shallow impoundment in northeastern Pennsylvania that holds largemouth bass, bluegill, and catfish. The lake sits in a rural setting with limited development, making it quieter than many regional alternatives. Water levels fluctuate seasonally depending on rainfall and dam management, which affects where fish hold and how accessible certain areas remain.
The lake works best for anglers targeting warm-water species from spring through fall. Summer can bring algae blooms in shallow areas, particularly along the eastern shoreline. Winter fishing is possible but less productive, as the lake does not maintain deep, oxygenated holes that concentrate fish during cold months.
Access is limited to a few launch points and bank-fishing locations. The surrounding terrain is wooded and marshy in places, so wading is not practical except in designated areas. Most anglers fish from boats or from the shoreline near the access points.
Key Takeaways
- Opossum Lake holds largemouth bass, bluegill, and catfish, with spring and fall offering the most consistent fishing.
- A valid Pennsylvania fishing license is required for anyone 16 and older, and you can purchase one online or at most sporting goods stores.
- The lake has one public boat launch and several bank-fishing spots, but facilities are minimal and parking is limited.
- Water levels drop in late summer and fall, which can make launching difficult and concentrate fish in deeper channels.
- No gas motors are permitted; only electric trolling motors and paddle craft are allowed on the water.
Seasons and What to Expect
Spring (April through May) is the strongest season. Largemouth bass move into shallow water to spawn, and bluegill become aggressive around structure. Water temperatures range from 55 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Topwater lures, soft plastics, and small spinners all produce. Early morning and late afternoon are most productive.
Summer (June through August) can be hit or miss. Morning fishing before 9 a.m. is worthwhile, but midday heat pushes bass into deeper water and shade. Algae blooms can make certain areas unfishable. Catfish bite well at night, particularly around the dam and deeper holes. Bluegill remain active in early morning and evening.
Fall (September through October) rivals spring for consistency. Bass feed heavily before winter, and water temperatures drop to 50 to 60 degrees. Largemouth respond well to crankbaits and jigs. Catfish bite throughout the day. By late October, water levels often drop noticeably, concentrating fish but also limiting boat access to certain areas.
Winter (November through March) is slow. The lake does not freeze solid most years, but fish are lethargic and scattered. Bank fishing near the dam can produce catfish on live bait, but success is inconsistent. Most anglers skip winter and return in spring.
Access, Parking, and Facilities
Opossum Lake has one public boat launch located on the southern shore, accessible via a gravel road off Route 115. The launch is maintained by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission but has no amenities—no restrooms, no concessions, no fuel dock. Parking is a gravel lot with space for roughly 10 to 15 vehicles and trailers.
Bank fishing is possible at the launch area and at a few informal spots along the eastern and northern shorelines. Access to these bank areas is unrestricted but unmarked. Bring your own water and supplies; the nearest town with services is several miles away.
The lake is open to the public year-round during daylight hours. There is no day-use fee. Launching a boat requires a valid Pennsylvania boat registration or a temporary launch permit, which you can obtain from the Fish and Boat Commission office or online.
Regulations and Licensing
A valid Pennsylvania fishing license is required for anyone 16 years old and older. You can purchase a license online through the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission website, by phone, or at most sporting goods stores and bait shops. A one-day license costs less than a full-year license and is useful if you plan only one or two trips.
Largemouth bass have a minimum size of 12 inches and a daily limit of five fish. Bluegill and other sunfish have no size limit and a daily limit of 50 fish. Catfish have no size or bag limit. These regulations apply year-round, though they can change; check the current Pennsylvania fishing digest before you go.
Electric trolling motors and paddle craft are the only motorized and non-motorized options allowed. Gas motors are prohibited. This rule keeps the lake quiet and reduces pollution, which benefits both fish and other anglers.
What Tackle and Techniques Work Best
For largemouth bass, bring a mix of topwater lures (poppers and walking baits), soft plastic worms in 4- to 6-inch lengths, and crankbaits in the 2- to 3-inch range. Bass on Opossum Lake respond well to structure—fallen trees, downed timber, and the shallow flats near the inlet. Fish slowly and deliberately rather than covering water quickly.
Bluegill bite on small jigs (1/16 to 1/8 ounce), panfish spinners, and live crickets or waxworms. They concentrate around dock pilings, submerged brush, and the shallow areas near the launch. Early morning produces the most consistent action.
Catfish respond to live bait—shiners, shad, or chicken liver—fished on the bottom near the dam and in the deepest holes. Fish at dusk and through the night for the best results. A simple three-way rig with a sinker and a short leader works well. Catfish bite year-round, making them a reliable option when bass and bluegill are slow.
Getting There and Nearby Options
Opossum Lake is located in Carbon County, Pennsylvania, roughly 20 miles northeast of Jim Thorpe. From Interstate 476, take Exit 47 and follow Route 115 north for about 8 miles. The boat launch is on the right (east) side of Route 115, marked by a small sign. GPS coordinates for the launch are approximately 40.92°N, 75.58°W.
The drive from the Pocono region takes 45 minutes to an hour. From Allentown, allow 90 minutes. The road is paved but narrow in places, and winter conditions can make access difficult.
If Opossum Lake is too small or crowded, nearby alternatives include Tobyhanna Lake (larger, more facilities, 15 miles south) and Wallenpaupack Lake (much larger, more developed, 25 miles north). Both offer similar species but with more amenities and higher fishing pressure.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Many anglers arrive without checking water levels beforehand. Late summer and fall drawdowns can make the launch unusable for trailers. Call the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission office in Bloomsburg before you go if you plan to launch a boat in August or later.
Fishing midday in summer is often unproductive. Plan to fish early morning (sunrise to 9 a.m.) or late afternoon (4 p.m. onward). This timing applies especially to bass; catfish and bluegill can bite throughout the day if you find the right structure.
Underestimating the lack of facilities is another common issue. Bring more water and snacks than you think you will need. Cell service is spotty, so do not rely on your phone for navigation or emergencies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a boat to fish Opossum Lake?
No. Bank fishing is possible at the launch area and along the shoreline, though you will cover less water and may miss deeper structure where bass hold. A small kayak or canoe is a good middle ground if you do not have a motorboat.
What is the best time of year to fish here?
Spring (April and May) and fall (September and October) are most consistent. Summer mornings can be good, but midday is slow. Winter is generally not worth the effort unless you specifically target catfish at night.
Can I fish at night?
Yes. Catfish bite well after dark, especially around the dam. Bass also feed at night during summer. Make sure you have a headlamp or flashlight and stay aware of the shoreline to avoid running aground.
What should I do if the water level is too low to launch?
Bank fish instead, or visit a nearby lake like Tobyhanna or Wallenpaupack. Call ahead to the Fish and Boat Commission office to confirm conditions before making the drive.
Are there any fish species I should avoid?
No species are off-limits, but carp and other rough fish are not common in Opossum Lake. Focus on bass, bluegill, and catfish for the most reliable action.