What Porter Lake offers pike anglers

Porter Lake sits in Pike County, Pennsylvania, about 20 minutes northeast of Milford, and holds a solid population of pike in a setting that stays quieter than the better-known lakes nearby. The lake runs roughly 80 acres and reaches depths past 40 feet in the central basin, which means pike have room to hunt and hold in cooler water during summer. You'll find pike year-round here, though spring and fall produce the most consistent action when fish move into shallower structure to feed.

The lake's shoreline mixes wooded banks with some residential property, and the bottom transitions from shallow flats near the inlet to deeper holes toward the dam. Pike here run mostly in the 18- to 26-inch range, with occasional fish pushing into the 30s. The lake also holds largemouth bass and some panfish, so if pike aren't cooperating, you have other options to keep the day productive.

Key Takeaways

  • Porter Lake is a 80-acre pike fishery in Pike County, Pennsylvania, located about 20 minutes northeast of Milford with depths exceeding 40 feet in the center.
  • Spring and fall produce the most consistent pike action, with fish moving into shallow structure to feed during these seasons.
  • Pike here typically range from 18 to 26 inches, with occasional larger fish, and the lake also holds largemouth bass and panfish as secondary targets.
  • Public access is available at the boat launch on the north shore, and the lake allows both motorized and electric-only fishing depending on the area.
  • Early morning and late afternoon are the most productive times, especially around weed edges, rocky points, and the inlet where baitfish concentrate.

Access and launch information

Porter Lake has a public boat launch on the north shore that's maintained by Pike County. The ramp is paved and can handle both trailers and car-top launches, with a small parking area nearby. There's no fee to launch, though the lot can fill on weekends during peak season. Arrive early if you're coming on a Saturday or Sunday, especially in May or October.

The lake is open to the public year-round, and Pennsylvania fishing regulations apply. You'll need a valid Pennsylvania fishing license, which you can purchase online through the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission website or at most sporting goods stores. No special permit is required for Porter Lake itself.

Seasonal patterns and best times to fish

Spring pike fishing at Porter Lake peaks from late April through May, when water temperatures climb into the 50s and pike move out of deep winter holes to spawn and feed. Focus on the shallow flats along the north and west shores, where pike hunt emerging baitfish. Early morning and late afternoon produce better than midday, and overcast days often outfish sunny ones.

Summer slows the bite considerably as pike retreat to deeper, cooler water. If you fish June through August, concentrate your effort in the central basin where depths exceed 35 feet, and fish early or late in the day when surface temperatures drop. Weed edges and the inlet structure hold pike even in heat, but expect fewer hookups than spring.

Fall fishing returns strong in September and October as water cools and pike become aggressive again. The same shallow structure that worked in spring produces again, and the bite often lasts longer into the day than it does in spring. November can be productive too, though water temperatures drop and pike feed less frequently.

Structure and where pike hold

The inlet on the north end of Porter Lake is the most consistent pike producer. Baitfish concentrate there, and pike stack up to intercept them. Fish the inlet mouth and the shallow flats immediately downstream, especially if current is running. A 3- to 6-foot depth range holds pike most of the year.

Rocky points on the east and west shores hold pike, particularly where depth transitions from 8 feet to 15 feet. These points funnel baitfish and give pike ambush positions. Work the drop-off edge with crankbaits or live bait, and don't rush—pike often follow a lure before committing.

Weed beds along the southern shore provide cover and hunting grounds, especially in spring and fall. Pike use weeds to hide and hunt, so work the edges rather than casting into dense mats. If you find submerged vegetation in 6 to 12 feet of water, you've found pike habitat.

Lures and techniques that work

Spinnerbaits in sizes 1/2 to 1 ounce work well at Porter Lake, particularly in white, chartreuse, or natural colors. Cast them along weed edges and rocky points, and retrieve steadily or with a stop-and-go rhythm. Pike often hit on the pause, so don't be afraid to let the lure flutter.

Crankbaits that dive to 8 to 12 feet cover water quickly and trigger strikes from aggressive pike. Shallow-running crankbaits work the inlet and flats, while deeper-diving models reach the structure on points and drop-offs. Bright colors like orange and chartreuse work better on overcast days; natural colors like perch patterns work in clear water.

Live bait—shiners or shad in the 4- to 6-inch range—produces consistent results, especially in fall. Fish them under a bobber in shallow water or on a simple rig on the bottom in deeper areas. Live bait works when lures don't, and it often produces larger pike than artificials.

Regulations and what you need to know

Pennsylvania's pike regulations allow one pike per day with a 24-inch minimum length. Check the current regulations on the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission website before you fish, as rules can change. The lake is open to fishing year-round, but spring and fall seasons are most productive.

Electric motors only are permitted in certain areas of Porter Lake, so confirm the current rules before launching. Gas motors are allowed in other sections, but speeds may be restricted. The boat launch attendant or a call to the Pike County Parks office can clarify the current motor restrictions.

Nearby water and alternative options

If Porter Lake isn't producing or you want to explore nearby, Masthope Lake is about 10 minutes south and also holds pike in a similar setting. Wallenpaupack Lake, the largest lake in Pike County, is 15 minutes away and offers more pike and better facilities, though it draws more boat traffic. Shohola Lake, another smaller option, sits about 20 minutes northeast and fishes well in spring.

The Delaware River runs through Pike County and holds pike as well, though river fishing requires different techniques and more current awareness. If you want to stay on lakes, Porter Lake offers a quieter experience than the bigger water nearby, which appeals to anglers who prefer fewer boats and a more peaceful day on the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Early morning and late afternoon produce the most consistent action, especially during spring and fall. Pike feed most actively when light is low and water temperature is coolest. Midday fishing can work in spring, but summer midday fishing is usually slow.

Do I need a boat to fish Porter Lake?

A boat gives you access to the best structure and deeper water, but shore fishing is possible along the north and west banks near the inlet and around rocky areas. The boat launch is the most practical way to reach the productive water, though some anglers fish from shore with decent results in spring.

Can I keep pike I catch at Porter Lake?

Yes, Pennsylvania allows one pike per day with a 24-inch minimum length. Check the current regulations on the Fish and Boat Commission website to confirm the rules haven't changed. Most anglers practice catch-and-release for pike under 26 inches to maintain the fishery.

What should I do if the bite is slow?

Move to different structure—try the inlet if you've been fishing points, or switch to live bait if artificials aren't working. Change water depth by 5 to 10 feet and fish slower. If the lake is producing nothing, Wallenpaupack or Masthope Lake are close enough to reach in 15 minutes.

Is there a fee to launch at Porter Lake?

No, the public boat launch is free. Parking is limited, so arrive early on weekends. The ramp is maintained year-round and can handle trailers and car-top launches.