What You'll Find at Northmoreland Park Lake

Northmoreland Park Lake is a 45-acre impoundment in Northmoreland County, Pennsylvania, about 30 miles northeast of Pittsburgh. The lake holds largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, and panfish—bluegill and crappie mostly. It's a solid regional destination if you're already in the area, though it won't draw you from hours away the way some of the bigger lakes do.

The lake sits inside Northmoreland County Park, which means you get maintained access, parking, and facilities without the hassle of private land permission. The shoreline is a mix of wooded banks and open water, with some shallow coves on the north end that warm up early in spring and hold fish predictably through the season.

Key Takeaways

  • Northmoreland Park Lake is open to the public year-round, and a Pennsylvania fishing license is required for anyone 16 and older.
  • Launch your boat at the public ramp on the south end, or fish from shore along the developed park areas on the east bank.
  • Spring and fall produce the most consistent action, with bass moving shallow and catfish feeding actively in cooler water.
  • The lake's shallow coves and weed edges hold panfish throughout summer, making it a good spot for bluegill and crappie when bass slow down.

Getting There and What You Need

Northmoreland Park Lake is located at Northmoreland County Park, 2 Sanctuary Road, Glenshaw, PA 15116. From Pittsburgh, take I-76 north toward the airport, then follow signs for Glenshaw and the county park. Parking is free, and the lot fills up on weekends but rarely runs out of space.

You'll need a valid Pennsylvania fishing license if you're 16 or older. You can purchase a one-day or annual license through the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission website or at most sporting goods stores and bait shops in the area. No special permits are required for the lake itself.

The boat ramp is concrete and well-maintained, with a small fee (typically $5 to $10 per launch, though this varies seasonally). If you don't have a boat, the park has shoreline access along the east bank where you can fish from the bank or wade in shallow areas. The park closes at dusk, so plan your day accordingly.

Spring and Fall: Peak Fishing Seasons

March through May is when Northmoreland Park Lake fishes best. Water temperatures climb from the low 40s into the 60s, and largemouth bass move into the shallows to spawn. Fish the coves on the north end with crankbaits, soft plastics, and topwater lures early in the morning. Smallmouth bass are less predictable here than largemouths, but they'll be active around rocky points and deeper structure as the season progresses.

Fall—September through November—brings a second strong bite. Bass feed heavily before winter, and catfish become more active as water cools. Throw larger baits for catfish at night or early morning: chicken liver, cut shad, or prepared stink baits work well. The lake's shallow areas remain productive for panfish throughout fall, and bluegill will hit small jigs and live crickets consistently.

Summer Fishing and Panfish Patterns

Summer is slower for bass at Northmoreland Park Lake, but it's prime time for bluegill and crappie. Focus on the weed edges and deeper coves where water stays cooler. Early morning and late evening produce the best results; midday fishing is possible but requires patience and shade.

Live crickets, small minnows, and 1/32-ounce jigs will take panfish consistently. The lake's shallow north coves warm up quickly in summer, so fish the deeper water near the dam or the channel that connects the main basin to the upper pond. Crappie will suspend in 8 to 12 feet of water during the heat of the day, so a fish finder makes a real difference if you have one.

Winter Access and Catfish Opportunities

The lake remains open through winter, though ice can close it for periods. When it's open water, catfish are your best bet. Channel catfish don't stop feeding in cold water the way bass do; they just move deeper and feed less frequently. Fish the deepest holes near the dam with cut bait or chicken liver, and be prepared to wait. A single rod and patience will serve you better than casting all day.

Winter also brings fewer crowds, which means better parking and more elbow room if you're fishing from shore. The park facilities remain open, though some amenities may be limited. Call ahead to confirm conditions if you're making the drive in December or January.

Shore Fishing and Bank Access

If you don't have a boat, Northmoreland Park Lake is still worth a visit. The east bank has several developed areas where you can fish from shore, and the park maintains walking paths that give you access to different sections of the lake. The north cove is particularly good for shore anglers because it's shallow and holds panfish and smaller bass.

Wading is possible in some areas, especially in spring and fall when water levels are stable. Wear a belt or waders to stay comfortable, and watch for drop-offs—the lake bottom slopes quickly in some spots. The south end near the dam is deeper and better for catfish; the north end is better for panfish and bass.

What to Bring and What to Expect

Pack a basic tackle box with crankbaits, soft plastics, and jigs in sizes 1/16 to 1/4 ounce. For catfish, bring cut bait, chicken liver, or prepared stink baits. A small cooler, sunscreen, and bug spray are essentials, especially in summer. The park has restrooms and picnic areas, so you can make a half-day or full-day outing without much planning.

Northmoreland Park Lake is not a trophy fishery. You won't catch 5-pound largemouths regularly, and the catfish run small to medium. What you will find is consistent action, good access, and a solid option for a morning or afternoon trip if you're in the Pittsburgh area. It's the kind of lake where you can teach a kid to fish, practice new techniques, or just spend a few hours on the water without driving far.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a boat to fish Northmoreland Park Lake?

No. The park has shore access along the east bank and near the dam, and you can fish from the bank or wade in shallow areas. A boat gives you access to more water and deeper structure, but it's not required to catch fish here.

What's the best time of year to fish here?

Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) are most consistent. Bass move shallow in spring, and catfish feed actively in cooler water. Summer is slower for bass but good for panfish. Winter is open but requires patience and deeper presentations.

Can I fish at night?

The park closes at dusk, so night fishing is not permitted. Plan your trip for daylight hours, though early morning and late evening (before closing) are your best windows for action.

What size fish can I expect to catch?

Largemouth bass typically run 1 to 3 pounds, with occasional fish to 4 or 5 pounds. Smallmouth bass are smaller and less common. Catfish run 1 to 5 pounds. Bluegill and crappie are standard panfish size—6 to 10 inches is typical.

Is there a fish limit at Northmoreland Park Lake?

Pennsylvania's statewide regulations apply. Check the current Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission regulations for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, catfish, and panfish limits before you fish, as these can change year to year.