What You'll Find on the Susquehanna River

The Susquehanna River is Pennsylvania's largest river and one of the most productive warmwater fisheries on the East Coast. It holds largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, walleye, channel catfish, flathead catfish, carp, and shad across its 464-mile length. The river's three hydroelectric dams—Conowingo in Maryland, Safe Harbor, and Holtwood—create distinct fishing zones, each with different access points, current patterns, and seasonal fish behavior.

The upper Susquehanna (above Holtwood Dam near Conestoga) is slower and shallower, favoring largemouth bass and panfish. The middle section between Holtwood and Safe Harbor dams holds strong populations of smallmouth bass and walleye. The lower river below Safe Harbor, especially near Conowingo Dam in Maryland, is known for shad runs, catfish, and trophy smallmouth bass. Water levels fluctuate daily based on dam releases, which affects where fish hold and how you fish them.

Key Takeaways

  • The Susquehanna holds largemouth and smallmouth bass, walleye, catfish, and shad, with different species dominant in different sections of the river.
  • Spring shad runs (April through June) and fall walleye movements create peak fishing windows that draw anglers from across the region.
  • Pennsylvania requires a fishing license for anyone 16 and older; check current regulations for species-specific rules on size and creel limits before you fish.
  • Public boat launches exist at multiple locations, but water levels change daily due to dam releases, so call ahead or check the dam operator's website for current conditions.
  • The lower river near Conowingo Dam in Maryland offers the most consistent trophy potential but requires understanding tidal influence and dam discharge patterns.

Spring Shad Runs and Early-Season Fishing

The Susquehanna's shad run typically begins in April and peaks through May, drawing both shad specialists and anglers targeting bass that feed on migrating shad. American shad move upriver to spawn, and they concentrate in predictable zones below each dam. The lower river near Conowingo Dam is the most reliable shad destination; fish there with small shad darts, spoons, or live shad under a float.

Spring also brings largemouth bass out of winter patterns. In the upper river, focus on shallow flats, creek mouths, and wood cover as water warms into the 50s and 60s. Smallmouth bass in the middle section begin moving from deep winter holes into shallower feeding zones. Water temperature and dam discharge schedules drive timing more than calendar dates—a warm March can push fish shallow early, while a cold April keeps them deep.

Spring water levels are often high due to winter runoff and dam management. High water pushes fish into slack-water areas along the banks, behind islands, and in tributary mouths where current is reduced. This makes bank fishing and kayak access more productive than open-water casting.

Summer Conditions and Where Fish Move

By June, water temperatures climb into the 70s and 80s. Largemouth bass in the upper river retreat to deeper channels, submerged timber, and vegetation. Smallmouth bass in the middle and lower sections move to deeper structure—ledges, drop-offs, and current breaks near the dam pools. Walleye become nocturnal, feeding primarily at dawn, dusk, and night.

Summer is the hardest season on the Susquehanna because fish are less active during daylight. Early morning and evening fishing produces better results than midday. Night fishing for walleye and catfish becomes a viable strategy; the lower river below Safe Harbor and near Conowingo is popular for night catfish trips. Flathead catfish, an invasive species now abundant in the river, are most active after dark and can reach 50 pounds or more.

Water levels in summer are typically lower and more stable than spring, making it easier to predict where fish will hold. However, dam discharge can still change conditions quickly. Check the Safe Harbor Water Power Company or Conowingo Dam websites for real-time discharge information before you launch.

Fall Walleye and Bass Movements

September through November is prime time for walleye on the Susquehanna. As water cools, walleye move from deep summer holes into shallower feeding zones, particularly around structure and current breaks. The middle river between Holtwood and Safe Harbor dams is the most consistent walleye zone. Fish live shiners, shad, or jigs along drop-offs, rocky points, and near dam tailraces where current concentrates baitfish.

Fall also revitalizes largemouth and smallmouth bass fishing. Cooling water temperatures increase activity throughout the day. Bass feed aggressively in preparation for winter, making topwater and crankbait fishing effective in the upper and middle sections. The lower river near Conowingo continues to hold trophy smallmouth bass, especially around rocky structure and current seams.

Fall water levels are typically moderate and stable, making it easier to fish specific structure. Wind can be a factor in October and November, so plan trips for calmer days or fish protected areas along the banks and in tributary mouths.

Winter Fishing and Access Challenges

Winter (December through February) slows fishing significantly, but it is not dead. Walleye remain catchable in deeper pools and near dam tailraces, particularly during mild spells. Catfish continue to feed, especially at night. Largemouth bass in the upper river become lethargic but can still be caught in deep holes and near structure on warmer days.

Winter access is the main challenge. Ice can form along the banks and in shallow areas, making some boat launches unusable. Check with local marinas or the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission before launching. Some anglers fish from shore in winter, targeting catfish and walleye near dam tailraces and deep holes. The lower river near Conowingo rarely freezes completely, making it more accessible than the upper sections.

Winter water levels fluctuate based on power generation demand. Cold-weather dam releases can be sudden and dramatic, so never wade or fish close to dam tailraces without understanding current conditions and discharge schedules.

Public Access Points and Boat Launches

The Susquehanna has multiple public boat launches, though not all are equally developed. In the upper river, Pequea Access Area near Conestoga and Shady Oaks Park near Harrisburg offer parking and ramp access. The middle river has launches at Holtwood Dam (below the dam) and Safe Harbor Dam. The lower river near Conowingo Dam in Maryland has several Maryland Department of Natural Resources launches, including Conowingo Dam Park and Shure's Landing.

Bank fishing access is available at various public areas, though some sections are posted private. The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission maintains a list of public access areas on its website. Kayak and canoe access is possible throughout the river, but be aware of dam discharge schedules—water levels can rise quickly and current can become dangerous below dams during heavy discharge.

Parking and facilities vary by location. Some launches have only a ramp and gravel lot; others have restrooms, picnic areas, and tackle shops nearby. Call ahead or check the launch's website to confirm hours, fees, and current conditions before you drive out.

Regulations, Licenses, and What You Need to Know

Pennsylvania requires a fishing license for anyone 16 and older. You can purchase a one-day, seven-day, or annual license through the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission website or at most bait shops. The license covers both state and federal waters on the Susquehanna.

Species-specific regulations change annually and vary by section of the river. Largemouth bass typically have a 12-inch minimum size and a five-fish daily limit. Smallmouth bass have a 10-inch minimum and a five-fish daily limit. Walleye have a 15-inch minimum and a five-fish daily limit. Catfish have no minimum size and no daily limit. Shad have a 12-inch minimum and a 50-fish daily limit during the spring run. Check the current Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission regulations before you fish, as rules can change.

The lower Susquehanna below Conowingo Dam is tidal and influenced by Maryland regulations as well. If you fish in Maryland waters, you need a Maryland license in addition to your Pennsylvania license. The boundary is marked; ask at local marinas if you are unsure where the state line falls.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to fish the Susquehanna?

Spring (April through May) for shad and early-season bass, and fall (September through November) for walleye and active bass are the most productive seasons. Summer is slower during daylight but night fishing for catfish and walleye can be excellent. Winter is the slowest season overall, though walleye and catfish remain catchable.

Do I need a boat to fish the Susquehanna?

No. Bank fishing is possible at public access areas throughout the river, particularly near dam tailraces and at designated public areas. Kayaks and canoes work well for reaching less-crowded sections. A boat gives you more flexibility and access to deeper structure, but it is not required.

What should I know about dam discharge before I fish?

Water levels and current change based on power generation at the three dams. Heavy discharge can make wading dangerous and change where fish hold. Check the Safe Harbor Water Power Company website or call ahead to understand current discharge levels. Never wade or fish directly below a dam during high discharge.

Are there trophy fish in the Susquehanna?

Yes. The lower river near Conowingo Dam is known for trophy smallmouth bass in the 18- to 22-inch range. Flathead catfish regularly exceed 40 pounds. Walleye in the 18- to 24-inch range are common in the middle river during fall. The upper river holds largemouth bass to 6 pounds, though most are smaller.

Can I fish the Susquehanna year-round?

Yes, but conditions vary dramatically by season. Winter access can be limited by ice and weather. Spring and fall are the most reliable seasons for consistent fishing. Summer requires early morning or night fishing to be productive. Check local conditions and regulations before planning a winter trip.