Fishing Cowanesque Lake

AKA: Cowanesque Reservoir

Popular Fish Species
Cowanesque Lake Fishing Video
Available Fish Species
Amenities
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Boat Launch Ramps
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Cowanesque Lake, PA

Popular Fish Species Cowanesque Lake, PA

Muskie Fishing

Fishing for muskellunge in Cowanesque Lake, which is the largest lake in the area, could provide a trophy fish on any given cast. Thanks to great fishery management by Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission, giant musky, and tiger muskie, roam these waters and are aggressive eaters. Muskie fishing can bring some exciting moments to your fishing day, as big muskies are spectacular, and strong fighters. Use a strong rod in medium- to medium-heavy action, with heavy line - 20# or heavier. Because of their sharp teeth, steel leaders are highly recommended. Muskie have a big mouth so use big baits, same baits you would use for bass but in larger sizes. Topwater, spinnerbaits, crankbaits and jerkbaits all work well for hungry muskie. The best time of year to chase these big fish is Spring, and then again in Fall as the water temperature starts cooling.

Cowanesque Lake Popular Fish - Smallmouth Bass

Smallmouth Bass Fishing

Many local anglers enjoy smallmouth fishing, as smallies are tough fighters and very exciting to catch. Cowanesque Lake continues to sustain a robust smallmouth bass population. Smallmouth bass fishing is good virtually anytime they are shallow. Use shallow spinnerbaits, buzzbaits, crankbaits, tube baits and jerkbaits around rip rap. Around grass, use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In winter, spend your time on deeper structure with drop-shot rigs, small worms, jigs and spoons. Largemouth bass also reside here in good numbers. Rock piles and points are prime areas for smallmouth as these areas are also home to crawfish.

Black Crappie Fishing

Cowanesque Lake holds a plentiful population of black crappie, which are fat and healthy this year. Crappie fishing is easy and requires simple, basic gear. Any fishing pole, reasonably small line and crappie jigs or small hooks baited with live bait, creates the ideal setup. Add a bobber and you can set the depth you prefer the bait to maintain. White crappie, in smaller numbers, also make this lake their home. The best time to catch crappie tends to be at dawn and dusk. Live bait and small jigs are the most common method for crappie here. Because crappie always like cover and structure, so locate brush and vegetation. Using a fish finder can help locate schools of crappie, which tend to stack vertically around cover. In spring and fall focus on the 8 to 12 foot range. As the crappie move deep in summer and winter, follow points out deep, as well as find ledges near channels in deeper water.

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, black crappie, white crappie, bluegill, pumpkinseed sunfish, yellow perch and tiger muskie at Cowanesque Lake in Pennsylvania.

Cowanesque Lake Fishing Video

With 17 miles of shoreline at Cowanesque Lake, there is plenty of room for anglers to wet a line. And, with 1,085 surface acres there is plenty of room for boating of all kinds. Whether you prefer a canoe, kayak, bass boat, pontoon or any other fishing boat, you'll have access to a variety of fish species.Bass, perch, crappie, catfish, sunfish and tiger muskie roam these waters. Much of the shoreline is accessible for bank fishing, especially if you don't mind a short walk from the roadways.

Nestled in the picturesque hills of Tioga County, Pennsylvania, Cowanesque Lake is a hidden gem for fishing enthusiasts. Spanning over 1,085 acres, this serene reservoir offers excellent fishing opportunities for a variety of species. Anglers flock to Cowanesque Lake to target popular fish such as largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, northern pike, walleye, and panfish like crappie and bluegill. The lake's diverse structure, including submerged vegetation, rocky points, and deep channels, provides an ideal habitat for these species, ensuring an exciting and rewarding fishing experience.

Boating enthusiasts will also find plenty to enjoy at Cowanesque Lake. With its expansive waters and multiple boat launches, the lake offers ample space for sailing, powerboating, kayaking, and canoeing. Boaters can cruise along the calm waters, explore the lake's hidden coves, or even try their hand at water skiing and tubing. The scenic beauty surrounding the lake enhances the boating experience, creating a tranquil setting for leisurely rides or adventurous water sports.

Camping is a popular activity at Cowanesque Lake, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. The lake offers several camping options, including both tent and RV sites, as well as primitive camping areas. Whether one prefers a waterfront campsite or a more secluded spot in the woods, there are accommodations available to suit different preferences. Camping at Cowanesque Lake allows visitors to wake up to the sounds of nature, enjoy peaceful strolls along the shoreline, and marvel at the starry night sky.

As visitors explore the lake and its surroundings, they can appreciate the scenic landscapes that envelop Cowanesque Lake. The rolling hills, lush forests, and the sparkling blue waters create a serene backdrop for outdoor activities. Nature enthusiasts can also explore the nearby Cowanesque River and its surrounding trails, offering opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife observation. Whether fishing, boating, or camping, visitors to Cowanesque Lake can revel in the tranquility and natural splendor of this hidden gem in Pennsylvania.

Cowanesque Lake, with its abundant fish species, boating opportunities, and camping facilities, offers a peaceful retreat for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether one seeks an exciting fishing excursion, a leisurely boating adventure, or a quiet camping getaway, Cowanesque Lake provides an idyllic setting to connect with nature and create lasting memories.

Primary fish species residing in Cowanesque Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Cowanesque Lake Amenities

Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: NEARBY
Bait & Tackle: NO
Restaurant: NEARBY

Today's Weather & Forecast

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

South Shore Boat Ramp #1 & #2
These are two-lane, concrete ramps with docks and lots of paved parking. It is located mid lake in the south side of the lake.

Tompkins Campground Boat Ramp
Located mid lake on the north side of the lake, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with paved parking for about twenty vehicles with trailers.