What You'll Find at Greenlick Run Lake

Greenlick Run Lake is a modest reservoir in Greene County, Pennsylvania, tucked into the rolling terrain of the southwestern part of the state. It's roughly 50 acres and holds largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and panfish — bluegill, crappie, and catfish. The lake sits in a rural pocket, which means fewer crowds than you'll find at the bigger reservoirs nearby, but also less developed infrastructure. If you're coming from the Waynesburg or Carmichaels area, this is a solid option for a half-day trip when you want to avoid the traffic at Ryerson Station or Enlow Fork.

The water is relatively clear in normal conditions, and the shoreline is a mix of wooded banks and some open areas. Depth varies — you'll find deeper holes near the dam and shallower flats along the upper end. The lake doesn't have a reputation as a trophy fishery, but it holds plenty of keeper-sized bass and panfish that will keep you busy.

Key Takeaways

  • Greenlick Run Lake is a 50-acre reservoir in Greene County that holds largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, bluegill, crappie, and catfish.
  • The lake has limited development and fewer anglers than nearby Ryerson Station, making it a quieter option for a half-day trip.
  • Spring and fall are the most productive seasons, with summer requiring deeper presentations and winter limiting access depending on weather.
  • There is no public boat launch at Greenlick Run Lake itself, so you'll need to confirm access and parking arrangements before heading out.

Access and Parking

Greenlick Run Lake does not have a developed public boat launch or a dedicated parking area managed by the state or a local authority. This is the biggest hurdle for most anglers. Your best option is to contact the Greene County Parks and Trails office or the local township office to ask about shore access or whether any informal parking exists near the water. Some anglers fish from the bank, particularly near the dam area, but you'll need permission or confirmation that public access is allowed.

If you have a small kayak or canoe, you may be able to carry it to the water from a nearby road, but do not assume this without checking first. The lake is on private land in places, and trespassing will shut down access for everyone. Call ahead — it takes five minutes and saves a wasted trip.

Seasonal Patterns and What to Fish

Spring (April through May) is the most reliable time. Bass move shallow to spawn, and panfish are active throughout the water column. Fish the wooded shoreline with crankbaits, soft plastics, and topwater early in the morning. Bluegill and crappie respond well to small jigs and live minnows near any structure — fallen trees, brush, or the deeper edges of shallow bays.

Summer (June through August) pushes bass deeper. Focus on the deeper holes near the dam and any submerged structure you can find. Early morning and late evening are your best windows. Panfish scatter but can still be caught in deeper water during the heat of the day. Catfish bite well at night on chicken liver or cut shad.

Fall (September through October) brings another strong bite. Bass move back to shallower water as the water cools, and panfish become more aggressive. This is often the best time for numbers and size. Winter access depends on weather and whether the lake freezes — call ahead to confirm conditions before making the drive.

What Gear and Tackle to Bring

For bass, a medium-power spinning or baitcasting rod works well. Bring a mix of crankbaits (shallow and medium-diving), soft plastics in natural colors (4 to 6 inches), and a few topwater plugs for early morning. Smallmouth bass in this lake tend to be a bit more aggressive on crankbaits than largemouth, so don't skip them.

For panfish, a light spinning rod and small jigs (1/16 to 1/8 ounce) in white, yellow, or chartreuse will cover most situations. Bring live bluegill or shiners if you can get them — they work better than artificials for crappie. For catfish, a heavier rod and simple three-way rig with chicken liver or cut shad will do the job.

Rules and Regulations

Greenlick Run Lake falls under Pennsylvania's general fishing regulations. You need a valid Pennsylvania fishing license, which you can purchase online through the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission website or at any authorized vendor. The license is good for a calendar year and costs less than $30 for a resident annual license.

Bass have a 12-inch minimum length limit and a daily limit of five fish. Panfish (bluegill and crappie) have no minimum size but a daily limit of 50 combined. Catfish have no size or bag limit. Always check the current regulations before you go — the Fish and Boat Commission updates rules periodically, and it's your responsibility to know what's in effect.

Nearby Water and Alternatives

If Greenlick Run Lake is closed or access is unavailable, Ryerson Station Lake is about 20 minutes north and offers a similar fishery with better infrastructure — a public launch, parking, and more consistent access. Enlow Fork Lake is another option, also in Greene County, and tends to hold larger bass. Both are worth exploring if you're in the area.

The Monongahela River runs through Greene County as well and holds smallmouth bass, catfish, and some musky. It's a different experience from a lake — moving water, more current, and a longer learning curve — but it's worth a trip if you want to expand your options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I launch a kayak or canoe at Greenlick Run Lake?

There is no developed launch, but you may be able to carry a small kayak or canoe to the water if you have permission. Contact the Greene County Parks office or local township to confirm where you can legally access the water and where you can park.

What's the best time of year to fish Greenlick Run Lake?

Spring and fall are most productive. Bass move shallow and bite actively, and panfish are aggressive. Summer requires deeper presentations and early-morning or evening fishing. Winter access depends on weather and ice conditions.

Do I need a Pennsylvania fishing license?

Yes. You can purchase an annual resident license for under $30 through the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission website or at any authorized vendor. The license is required to fish any public water in the state.

What if I can't get to Greenlick Run Lake?

Ryerson Station Lake and Enlow Fork Lake are both within 20 minutes and offer similar fishing with better public access and parking. Both hold bass and panfish and have developed boat launches.

Are there catfish in Greenlick Run Lake?

Yes. Catfish are present and have no size or bag limit. Fish for them at night with chicken liver, cut shad, or stink bait near the deeper areas of the lake.