What Woodcock Creek Lake Offers
Woodcock Creek Lake is a 45-acre impoundment in Sullivan County in north-central Pennsylvania, managed by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission. The lake sits in a rural, wooded setting and holds populations of largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, chain pickerel, and sunfish species including bluegill and pumpkinseed. The water is relatively clear and moderately productive, making it a solid destination for anglers targeting warm-water species without the crowds of larger regional lakes.
The lake is best known for its smallmouth bass fishing, particularly in spring and fall when fish move into shallower structure. Largemouth bass are present but less abundant than smallmouth. Panfish are reliable year-round, especially in summer when they school in deeper water during the day and move to shallows at dawn and dusk. The lake's modest size means you can cover productive water quickly and fish multiple areas in a single outing.
Key Takeaways
- Woodcock Creek Lake holds smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, chain pickerel, and panfish in a 45-acre setting in Sullivan County.
- Spring and fall are peak seasons for bass; summer panfish action is reliable if you fish early morning or evening.
- A public boat launch and parking area provide access; no permit beyond a Pennsylvania fishing license is required.
- The lake has no rental facilities, so bring your own boat or fish from shore; nearby towns offer lodging and supplies.
- Regulations follow statewide Pennsylvania rules: no special restrictions apply to Woodcock Creek Lake itself.
Seasons and What Fish Are Active
Spring (April through May) is the most productive season. Smallmouth bass move into shallow rocky areas and along drop-offs as water temperatures climb from the 50s to the 60s. Largemouth bass become active in weedy shallows and around submerged timber. Panfish spawn in May, and bluegill congregate in predictable shallow zones. Water clarity is usually good after spring runoff settles.
Summer (June through August) shifts the bite deeper. Bass move to the thermocline and structure in 15 to 25 feet of water during midday heat. Early morning and late evening produce the best results for all species. Panfish remain active but require deeper presentations during the day. Chain pickerel are present throughout summer and will strike topwater lures and small swimbaits.
Fall (September through October) rivals spring for quality fishing. Cooling water temperatures push bass back into shallows and along structure. Smallmouth are particularly aggressive in September and early October. Panfish bite improves as water cools. By late October, activity slows as water temperatures drop into the 40s.
Winter (November through March) is slow. The lake does not freeze solid most years, but fish are deep and inactive. Some anglers fish for panfish through the ice in severe winters, but this is not a primary destination during cold months.
Access, Parking, and Boat Launch
Woodcock Creek Lake has a public boat launch and parking area maintained by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission. The launch is a single-lane concrete ramp suitable for small to mid-size boats. Parking is available for roughly 15 to 20 vehicles. The facility is open year-round during daylight hours; there is no gate or fee.
To reach the lake, take Pennsylvania Route 220 north from Dushore or south from Mansfield. The lake is located near the small community of Woodcock. Signs mark the access area. GPS coordinates are approximately 41.47°N, 76.46°W. The nearest town with fuel, food, and lodging is Dushore, about 8 miles south.
Shore fishing is possible along the access area and at a few informal spots around the perimeter, but a boat gives you access to the most productive structure and deeper water. There are no rental facilities at the lake, so you must bring your own boat or fish from shore. The lake has no developed picnic area or facilities beyond the launch and parking.
What Tackle and Techniques Work Best
For smallmouth bass, use 1/4- to 1/2-ounce jigs tipped with crawfish or tube baits, especially around rocky points and drop-offs. Crankbaits that mimic crawfish in the 2- to 3-inch range work well in spring and fall. Topwater lures produce strikes at dawn and dusk. Spinning tackle in the 6- to 7-foot range with 8- to 12-pound monofilament or braided line is standard.
Largemouth bass respond to soft plastics in weedy areas and around submerged timber. Texas-rigged worms in 4- to 6-inch lengths and small swimbaits are reliable. Spinnerbaits in black and chartreuse work in stained water. Use slightly heavier tackle than for smallmouth — 7- to 8-foot medium-heavy rods with 12- to 15-pound line.
Panfish bite on small jigs (1/16- to 1/8-ounce) tipped with live crickets, waxworms, or small minnows. Ultralight spinning tackle makes this fishing enjoyable. Bluegill and pumpkinseed also take small poppers and dry flies if you have a fly rod. Chain pickerel will strike small spoons and spinners meant for panfish, so be prepared for aggressive takes.
Pennsylvania Fishing License and Regulations
You must have a valid Pennsylvania fishing license to fish Woodcock Creek Lake. Licenses are available from the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission online, by phone at 717-705-7800, or from authorized vendors throughout the state. A one-day license costs less than a full-year license and is useful if you are visiting from out of state.
Woodcock Creek Lake follows statewide Pennsylvania regulations with no special local restrictions. Largemouth bass have a 12-inch minimum length limit and a daily limit of 5 fish. Smallmouth bass have a 12-inch minimum and a daily limit of 6 fish. Panfish (bluegill, pumpkinseed, and other sunfish) have no minimum length and a daily limit of 50 fish. Chain pickerel have a 15-inch minimum and a daily limit of 5 fish. Check the current Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission regulations before you fish, as rules can change.
The lake is open to fishing year-round. No special permits or tags are required beyond the standard fishing license. Catch-and-release is always permitted and encouraged if you want to fish beyond the daily limit.
Nearby Towns and Lodging
Dushore, Pennsylvania, is the closest town with services. It lies about 8 miles south of Woodcock Creek Lake and has a small grocery store, gas station, and a few local restaurants. Lodging options in Dushore are limited; most are small motels or bed-and-breakfasts. Mansfield, a larger town about 20 miles north, offers more lodging choices and a wider selection of restaurants and shops.
The region is rural and quiet, with few chain hotels or restaurants. Plan ahead if you are visiting on a weekend or during peak season. Camping is available at private campgrounds in the area, though none are directly on the lake. The nearest state park with camping is Colley Run State Park, about 15 miles away.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fish Woodcock Creek Lake year-round?
Yes, the lake is open to fishing every day of the year. Winter fishing is slow because fish are deep and inactive, but the lake does not close. Some anglers fish for panfish through the ice in severe winters, though this requires checking ice thickness and local conditions.
Do I need a boat to fish Woodcock Creek Lake?
A boat gives you access to the most productive water and structure, but shore fishing is possible from the access area and a few spots around the perimeter. Shore fishing is best for panfish and requires patience, but it is a free option if you do not have a boat.
What is the best time of year to fish Woodcock Creek Lake?
Spring (April through May) and fall (September through October) are the most productive seasons. Water temperatures are moderate, fish are active in shallow structure, and the weather is comfortable. Summer can be good for early morning and evening fishing, but midday is slow.
Are there fish to eat at Woodcock Creek Lake?
Yes. Panfish (bluegill and pumpkinseed) are abundant and make good table fare. Chain pickerel are also edible. Bass are present but less commonly kept. Check current Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission guidance on fish consumption advisories before keeping any fish from this lake.
How far is Woodcock Creek Lake from major cities?
The lake is in rural Sullivan County, roughly 90 miles north of Harrisburg, 120 miles northwest of Philadelphia, and 60 miles south of the New York border. It is a destination for regional anglers rather than a day trip from major metropolitan areas, though it is accessible as a weekend trip from central Pennsylvania.