What You'll Find at Fairview Lake

Fairview Lake sits in Pike County, Pennsylvania, about 20 minutes north of Milford in the Pocono foothills. It's a 65-acre impoundment that holds a solid population of largemouth bass and northern pike, along with bluegill, crappie, and catfish that make it worth a trip if you're already in the area or live within an hour's drive. The lake is shallow to moderate in depth—most of it runs 8 to 15 feet—which means pike and bass stay accessible to shore anglers and small-boat fishermen through most of the year.

The water is moderately clear to stained depending on recent rainfall, and the shoreline mixes wooded banks with some open areas and a few residential properties. Unlike some of the bigger Pocono lakes, Fairview doesn't draw heavy pressure, which means you can often find fish without fighting crowds, especially on weekdays or outside peak summer.

Key Takeaways

  • Fairview Lake holds northern pike and largemouth bass year-round, with pike fishing strongest in spring and fall when water temperatures drop below 65 degrees.
  • The lake is 65 acres with depths ranging from 8 to 15 feet, making it fishable from shore or a small boat without needing a large vessel.
  • Public access is available at a small boat launch on the south end; parking is limited, so arrive early on weekends.
  • Bluegill and crappie bite consistently throughout the open season and offer a solid backup if pike and bass are slow.

Pike Patterns Through the Seasons

Spring pike fishing at Fairview runs from ice-out through May. As water temperatures climb from the 40s into the 50s, pike move into the shallower bays and along weed edges to spawn. This is when you'll have your best chance at numbers and size. Throw large swimbaits, soft plastics in the 6- to 8-inch range, or live shiners if you're allowed to use them (check current Pennsylvania regulations). Work the shallow flats on the north and west sides of the lake where vegetation is thickest.

Summer pike fishing slows as water temperatures push into the 70s. Pike move deeper and become less aggressive during midday. Early morning and late evening produce better results. If you're fishing during the heat of the day, focus on deeper structure—drop-offs near the main basin and any submerged timber. Smaller lures often outperform the big baits that worked in spring.

Fall is the second-best pike season. As water cools back into the 50s and 60s in September and October, pike return to aggressive feeding. They move back into shallower water and along weed lines. This is when you can throw large topwater plugs and see explosive strikes. The bite often stays strong right up until freeze-up.

Winter pike fishing is possible through the ice if conditions allow, though Fairview doesn't always freeze solid enough for safe ice fishing. Check local reports before committing to a trip. If the ice is safe, jigging with live shiners or small spoons in 10 to 15 feet of water near the main basin can produce.

Access and Boat Launch Details

The public boat launch is located on the south end of Fairview Lake, accessible from Fairview Lake Road. It's a single-lane concrete ramp suitable for small boats and kayaks. Parking is limited to roughly a dozen spaces, and those fill quickly on weekends, especially during summer. There is no fee to launch, but arrive early if you're planning a weekend trip.

The launch area has no amenities—no restrooms, no bait shop, no fuel dock. The nearest services are in Milford, about 20 minutes south. Shore fishing is possible along parts of the lake, though much of the shoreline is private property. Stick to areas near the launch or ask permission before crossing private land.

Tackle and Technique for Pike

Pike at Fairview respond well to large, high-visibility lures. Bring swimbaits in the 6- to 8-inch range in white, chartreuse, or natural patterns. Soft plastics like Berkley PowerBaits or similar work year-round. Topwater plugs in spring and fall can trigger explosive strikes. If you use live bait, shiners in the 4- to 6-inch range are standard.

Use a medium-heavy rod with 15- to 20-pound braid or monofilament. Pike have sharp teeth, so a wire or heavy fluorocarbon leader is essential—many anglers lose fish to bite-offs without one. Cast along weed edges, around any visible structure, and work the shallower bays during spring and fall. In summer, don't neglect deeper water near drop-offs.

Retrieve speed matters. In spring and fall, a steady, moderately fast retrieve often works best. In summer, slow down and work lures more deliberately. Pike will chase a fleeing baitfish, but they also respond to a wounded, struggling presentation when water is warm.

Panfish and Catfish Opportunities

If pike and bass aren't cooperating, bluegill and crappie at Fairview are reliable. Both species are present year-round and bite consistently from spring through fall. Fish the shallow bays and weed edges with small jigs, live crickets, or wax worms. A 2- to 4-pound ultralight rod makes panfish fishing more enjoyable and productive.

Catfish are also present and grow to decent size. Fish the deeper holes and channel areas after dark with chicken liver, cut shad, or commercial stink baits. Catfish fishing is often best in summer and early fall when water is warm. A simple rod holder and patience will reward you with solid fish.

Regulations and Licensing

Pennsylvania requires a fishing license for anyone 16 and older. You can purchase a license online through the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission website or at most sporting goods stores. Licenses are available as one-day, three-day, or annual options.

Pike and bass have specific size and creel limits that change periodically. Check the current Pennsylvania fishing guide before your trip—regulations are posted on the Fish and Boat Commission website and are updated annually. Fairview Lake may have local restrictions, so confirm those as well.

When to Fish Fairview Lake

Spring (April through May) and fall (September through October) are the most productive seasons for pike. Water temperatures are ideal, pike are aggressive, and the weather is usually pleasant. Summer is fishable but slower, especially during midday. Winter is possible but depends on ice conditions.

Weekdays see far less pressure than weekends. If you can fish Tuesday through Thursday, you'll have better access to the launch and quieter water. Early morning and late evening produce better results than midday, especially in summer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish Fairview Lake from shore?

Yes, but access is limited. The area around the boat launch allows shore fishing, and some public areas exist along the south end. Much of the shoreline is private property, so ask permission before crossing private land. A small boat or kayak gives you much better access to productive water.

What's the best time of day to fish for pike?

Early morning and late evening are most productive, especially in summer. In spring and fall, pike bite throughout the day, but dawn and dusk still tend to be best. Midday in summer is often slow unless you fish deeper water away from the shallows.

Do I need a boat to fish Fairview Lake?

A boat helps, but it's not required. Shore fishing is possible near the launch, and a kayak or small canoe works well for reaching more water. If you only have access to shore, focus on the shallow bays and weed edges where pike hunt in spring and fall.

What size pike are typical at Fairview?

Pike at Fairview range from 18 inches to the mid-30s. Fish in the 20- to 26-inch range are common. Larger pike are present but less frequent. Panfish and bass are also available if pike aren't cooperating.

Is there a bait shop near Fairview Lake?

No bait shop is located directly at the lake. Milford, about 20 minutes south, has sporting goods stores and tackle shops. Bring your own bait and tackle, or plan a supply run before you arrive.