Fishing At Shenango River Lake

AKA: Shenango River Reservoir

What to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, black crappie, white crappie, walleye, bluegill, white bass, yellow perch, hybrid striped bass, muskie and northern pike at Shenango River Lake in Pennsylvania.

Located 10 miles north of I-80 near the PA border with OH, Shenango River Lake is an ideal destination for fishing and pleasure boating. This 11,000-acre reservoir has plenty of areas to fish, including many areas accessible for shoreline fishing. A fishing pier and fish-cleaning station are available at the Clark Recreation Area.

Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Rental Boats
Marinas
Boat Launch Ramps
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Lake Video
Contact Info

Shenango River Lake, located in Mercer County, Pennsylvania, is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts seeking an enjoyable angling experience. Spanning over 3,500 acres, this picturesque lake offers excellent fishing opportunities for a variety of species. Anglers are drawn to Shenango River Lake to target popular fish such as largemouth and smallmouth bass, walleye, muskie, crappie, catfish, and panfish like bluegill and perch. The lake's diverse underwater structure, including submerged vegetation, rocky areas, and drop-offs, provides a thriving habitat for these species, ensuring an exciting and fruitful fishing adventure.

In addition to traditional fishing, Shenango River Lake offers the unique opportunity for ice fishing during the winter months. As the lake freezes over, ice anglers can venture out onto the ice and try their luck at catching a variety of fish species. Ice fishing is a cherished winter activity at Shenango River Lake, providing a thrilling and memorable experience for those willing to brave the cold.

Boating is another popular activity on Shenango River Lake, providing visitors with the opportunity to explore its vast waters and access prime fishing spots. The lake allows for motorized boats, making it suitable for powerboating, water skiing, and sailing. Boaters can launch their own vessels at the lake's multiple boat ramps or rent boats from marinas conveniently located around the lake. Whether cruising along the scenic shoreline, fishing in secluded coves, or engaging in thrilling water sports, boaters can fully immerse themselves in the beauty and recreational opportunities of Shenango River Lake.

Camping options are available within Shenango River Lake's recreation area, allowing visitors to extend their stay and fully embrace the outdoor experience. The lake boasts several campgrounds with tent and RV sites, as well as cabins for those seeking a more comfortable stay. Camping at Shenango River Lake provides the opportunity to wake up to breathtaking views, enjoy lakeside activities, and connect with nature in a serene environment.

As visitors explore Shenango River Lake and its surrounding area, they can appreciate the natural beauty and peacefulness that envelops the region. The lake is surrounded by lush forests, rolling hills, and scenic landscapes, creating a captivating backdrop for outdoor adventures. Nature enthusiasts can explore the nearby hiking trails, observe wildlife, or simply relax by the lakeshore and soak in the tranquility of the surroundings.

Shenango River Lake, with its diverse fish species, opportunities for ice fishing, boating facilities, and camping amenities, offers a remarkable destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Pennsylvania. Whether one seeks a rewarding fishing experience, an exhilarating boating adventure, or a peaceful camping getaway, Shenango River Lake provides an ideal setting to connect with nature and enjoy the serenity of this picturesque destination.

A marina and numerous boat ramps provide easy access for canoes, kayaks, pontoon boats, fishing boats and pleasure boats of all kinds. Anglers have a full menu of fish species to pursue here. The lake has populations of bass, crappie, perch, walleye, hybrid striped bass, muskie, northern pike, catfish and sunfish. An abundance of brush and vegetation provides cover for baitfish and predators alike. If the fish are shallow, vegetation is the key. When the fish move deeper in summer and winter, the river channel and off-shore structure is a major key. In winter, ice fishing is popular for crappie, walleye and bluegill.

Primary fish species residing in Shenango River Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Shenango River Lake Amenities

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

Today's Weather & Forecast

Fishing Boat Rentals

NorthStar Marina
Rentals: Pontoon Boats
724 962-5785

Marinas

NorthStar Marina
2802 Lake Rd
Clark, PA 16113
724 962-5785

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Clark Recreation Area Boat Ramp
Located just east of the Hermatige Road bridge, on the south side of the lake, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with docks and plenty of parking.

Hartford Landing
This is a primitive launch area with limited parking, It is located on the west side of the lake, off Hartford Road. just north of the Saranac Drive bridge.

Mahaney Access Boat Ramp
This is a three-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and plenty of paved parking.It is located in the southern most section of the lake, near the dam.

Shenango Recreation Area Boat Ramp
Located just west of the Hermatige Road bridge, on the north side of the lake, this is a four-lane, concrete boat ramp with paved parking for about a hundred vehicles with boat trailers.

Click here for a Pennsylvania Fishing License.