5 Best Fishing Spots Near Arrowhead Lake, PA: A Pocono Mountains Guide
Updated October 28, 2026
The Pocono Mountains are known for beautiful lakes, peaceful forests, and outdoor adventures. But did you know the region is also an excellent destination for fishing?
Whether you're an experienced angler or introducing your children to fishing for the first time, you'll find numerous lakes and waterways throughout northeastern Pennsylvania.
If you're staying in Arrowhead Lake or Pocono Lake, PA, you can explore several fishing destinations without traveling far from your vacation home.
From quiet community lakes to larger public reservoirs, here are five places worth considering for your next Pocono fishing adventure.
1. Arrowhead Lake — Best for a Relaxing Fishing Vacation
Arrowhead Lake is a private gated community featuring two recreational lakes: Arrowhead Lake and North Arrowhead Lake.
Both offer opportunities for fishing, boating, and enjoying the peaceful mountain surroundings.
Fishing is available to authorized community members and registered guests, subject to community regulations and Pennsylvania fishing laws.
Unlike busy public lakes, Arrowhead Lake provides a quieter residential setting where vacationers can combine fishing with other recreational activities.
Why visit: It's especially convenient for families staying in the community who want to enjoy fishing without driving to another destination.
Local tip: Check the community's current fishing regulations, permitted access areas, and any applicable restrictions before casting your line. A valid Pennsylvania fishing license is required for anglers ages 16 and older.
Arrowhead Lake is private property and is not open to unrestricted public fishing.
2. Tobyhanna State Park — Best for Family Fishing
One of the most accessible public fishing destinations near Pocono Lake is Tobyhanna State Park.
The park features a 170-acre lake surrounded by beautiful forests.
According to Pennsylvania's Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, common fish species include bass, pickerel, yellow perch, catfish, and sunfish. Brook and brown trout are also stocked.
The park offers an ADA-accessible fishing pier in its day-use area, making it a convenient option for visitors who prefer fishing from shore.
Why visit: Tobyhanna Lake is a good choice for families, beginners, and anyone who enjoys combining fishing with a picnic or lakeside walk.
Local tip: The park is open year-round from sunrise to sunset, although individual facilities operate seasonally.
Official information: Tobyhanna State Park Fishing Guide. Pennsylvania Government
3. Gouldsboro State Park — Best for Bass and Panfish
Gouldsboro State Park offers another excellent fishing destination in the central Poconos.
Its 250-acre lake supports a variety of warmwater fish species, including bass, pickerel, yellow perch, catfish, sunfish, walleye, and crappie.
The park also features an accessible fishing pier near Parking Lot 4.
During warmer months, visitors can combine fishing with kayaking, canoeing, or other lake activities.
Why visit: Gouldsboro Lake offers opportunities to target several fish species in a peaceful wooded setting.
Local tip: The park's boat rental concession normally operates from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. If you're visiting during fall or winter, don't assume rentals will be available.
Official information: Gouldsboro State Park Fishing. Pennsylvania Government
4. Beltzville State Park — Best for a Larger Lake Experience
Located near Lehighton, Beltzville State Park offers fishing on the 949-acre Beltzville Lake.
The lake supports both warmwater and coldwater fish species, including largemouth and smallmouth bass, striped bass, walleye, muskellunge, perch, and trout.
Anglers can access portions of the northern shoreline from Pohopoco Drive.
Below the dam, Pohopoco Creek is also stocked with trout.
Why visit: Beltzville is a good choice for experienced anglers interested in exploring a larger lake with several game fish species.
Local tip: Check the specific regulations for the species you're targeting. Pennsylvania fishing seasons, size restrictions, and harvest limits vary.
Official information: Beltzville State Park Fishing Guide.
5. Lake Wallenpaupack — Best for a Full-Day Fishing Adventure
For visitors willing to travel farther, Lake Wallenpaupack is one of northeastern Pennsylvania's best-known fishing destinations.
This enormous 5,700-acre lake stretches approximately 13 miles and offers fishing for smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, walleye, pickerel, trout, striped bass, catfish, and panfish.
The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission maintains a public boat access area at Mangan Cove, which also features an accessible fishing pier.
Why visit: Lake Wallenpaupack is ideal for anglers interested in exploring a large reservoir with diverse fishing opportunities.
Important 2026 update: Lake levels have affected some boating operations. Pocono Action Sports reports that its boat rentals are closed for the remainder of the 2026 season because of low water levels. Check current access and rental conditions before traveling.
Official information: Lake Wallenpaupack Fishing and Public Access. Pocono Action Sports
Do You Need a Fishing License in the Poconos?
Yes. Pennsylvania requires anglers ages 16 and older to have a valid fishing license.
Visitors can purchase licenses online through the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission.
For 2026, published nonresident options include:
License Type 2026 Price
1-Day Tourist License $31.97
3-Day Tourist License $31.97
7-Day Tourist License $39.47
Annual Nonresident License $60.97
Additional permits may be required when fishing for trout.
Purchase a Pennsylvania Fishing License
Prices include published issuing and transaction fees. Pennsylvania Government
Can You Fish in the Poconos During Fall and Winter?
Absolutely!
Fishing opportunities continue beyond summer, although regulations and weather conditions become especially important.
Bass and pickerel fishing opportunities remain available during colder months, subject to applicable regulations.
Some state parks also permit ice fishing when natural conditions allow.
Important safety reminder: Pennsylvania does not monitor ice thickness at Tobyhanna or Gouldsboro lakes. Never assume frozen water is safe.
Beginning November 1, Pennsylvania also requires everyone aboard boats shorter than 16 feet, including kayaks and canoes, to wear an approved life jacket through April 30. Pennsylvania Government
Where to Stay for a Pocono Fishing Vacation
Planning a fishing weekend in the Pocono Mountains?
Poconos Vacations offers professionally managed vacation homes in Arrowhead Lake, Pennsylvania, providing a comfortable base for exploring the region's lakes and outdoor attractions.
Depending on the property, guests can enjoy lake views, private docks, kayaks, fireplaces, outdoor fire pits, hot tubs, and fully equipped kitchens.
Whether you're planning a family fishing trip or a relaxing mountain getaway, you can choose accommodations that match your group's needs.
Browse Arrowhead Lake vacation rentals and book directly at Poconos.Vacations.
Arrowhead Lake requires advance guest registration and mandatory community fees. Certain recreational amenities operate seasonally. Fishing and boating remain subject to community and state regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fishing in the Poconos
Can you fish in Arrowhead Lake, Pennsylvania?
Yes. Fishing is available to authorized residents and registered guests, subject to community rules and Pennsylvania fishing regulations.
What fish are found in Pocono lakes?
Depending on the lake, common species include bass, pickerel, yellow perch, catfish, sunfish, trout, walleye, and crappie.
Are there free places to fish near Pocono Lake?
Pennsylvania state parks do not charge entrance fees. However, anglers ages 16 and older generally need a fishing license, and applicable fishing regulations still apply. Pennsylvania Government
Can children fish without a license?
Children younger than 16 generally do not need a Pennsylvania fishing license for ordinary recreational fishing. Special youth fishing events may have additional permit requirements.
Where can I stay near Pocono fishing lakes?
Vacation homes in Arrowhead Lake provide access to the community's private lakes and are within driving distance of several public fishing destinations.
Explore available accommodations at Poconos.Vacations.
Plan Your Pocono Fishing Getaway
From peaceful community lakes to large public reservoirs, the Pocono Mountains offer fishing opportunities for beginners and experienced anglers alike.
Whether you're visiting for a weekend or an extended vacation, fishing is a wonderful way to enjoy the region's natural beauty.
Find your next mountain getaway at Poconos.Vacations.
Fishing information reviewed October 28, 2026. Regulations, water conditions, boating access, and seasonal facilities may change. Always confirm current requirements before visiting.