What Glendale Lake Offers
Glendale Lake is a 40-acre impoundment in Columbia County, Pennsylvania, roughly 15 miles north of Bloomsburg. It holds largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, and panfish — bluegill and sunfish — in a setting that draws both boat and shore anglers. The lake sits at moderate elevation in the ridge-and-valley country, with wooded banks and a dam at the southern end that creates the deepest water.
The lake is open year-round, though spring and fall typically produce the most consistent fishing. Summer can be productive early and late in the day when water temperatures climb. Winter fishing is possible but requires patience and knowledge of where fish hold in deeper channels.
Access is straightforward: a public boat launch sits on the north shore, and parking is available nearby. The lake is small enough that you can cover productive water in a half day, making it useful for anglers who want to fish without a long drive or a full commitment.
Key Takeaways
- Glendale Lake holds largemouth and smallmouth bass, channel catfish, and panfish in a 40-acre setting north of Bloomsburg.
- A public boat launch on the north shore provides access for both motorized and non-motorized boats.
- Spring and fall are the most reliable seasons; summer fishing is best in early morning and evening.
- Pennsylvania fishing licenses are required for all anglers 16 and older, and you can purchase them online or at sporting goods retailers.
- The lake has no special regulations beyond state rules, so standard bass and panfish limits apply.
Bass Fishing at Glendale Lake
Largemouth bass are the primary draw for many anglers here. They respond well to shallow-water presentations in spring — work the weedy areas and fallen timber along the north and east banks. Topwater lures and soft plastics produce strikes during low-light periods. As water warms into summer, bass move deeper; focus on the dam area and the channel that runs through the middle of the lake.
Smallmouth bass are present but less abundant than largemouths. They prefer rocky structure and deeper water, so fish the dam face and any rocky outcrops along the shoreline. Tubes and crayfish-pattern soft plastics work well. Fall brings both species back to shallower water as temperatures drop, making late September through October a strong window.
Catch-and-release fishing is common here, and many anglers practice it voluntarily. If you keep bass, Pennsylvania's size and creel limits apply: largemouths must be at least 12 inches, and you may keep up to six per day. Smallmouths have the same minimum size and daily limit.
Catfish and Panfish Opportunities
Channel catfish in Glendale Lake run small to medium — most are in the 1- to 3-pound range, though occasional fish push 5 pounds. Fish the deeper areas near the dam, especially at dusk and after dark. Cut bait, chicken liver, and stink baits all work. Catfish are less selective than bass and will bite throughout the day, but night fishing often produces more and larger fish.
Bluegill and other sunfish are abundant and provide reliable action, especially for younger anglers or anyone looking for consistent catches. Fish shallow structure — downed trees, weed edges, and dock pilings — with small jigs, live crickets, or tiny spinners. Summer mornings before the heat sets in are ideal. Panfish have no minimum size in Pennsylvania and a daily limit of 50 per species, so they are a good option for a family outing.
Seasons and Water Conditions
Spring (April through May) brings warming water and active feeding across all species. Bass move shallow to spawn, and catfish begin moving into shallower areas. Water clarity is often moderate to poor due to spring runoff, so darker lures and scents work better than bright presentations.
Summer (June through August) can be productive but requires timing. Early morning and evening produce the best bass action. Midday, focus on catfish in deeper water or panfish in shaded areas. Water temperature often reaches the upper 70s by July and August, pushing bass deeper and making them less aggressive during peak heat.
Fall (September through November) is excellent. Cooling water triggers feeding across all species, and fish move back to shallower structure. October is often the strongest month. Winter (December through March) is slower but not impossible — fish move to the deepest parts of the lake and feed less frequently, but patient anglers can still catch bass and catfish.
Access, Parking, and Facilities
The public boat launch is located on the north shore of Glendale Lake, accessible via local roads from Bloomsburg. Parking is available at the launch area. The facility is maintained by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission and is open during daylight hours year-round.
There are no rental facilities at the lake, so you must bring your own boat or fish from shore. Shore fishing is possible along parts of the north and east banks, though boat access gives you more water to cover. The launch accommodates both small motorized boats and canoes or kayaks. No gas-powered motors are restricted, but check current regulations before launching.
The nearest town with services — gas, food, lodging — is Bloomsburg, about 15 minutes south. There are no campgrounds directly at the lake, but several private campgrounds operate in the surrounding area if you want to make a weekend of it.
Regulations and Licensing
All anglers 16 and older must carry a valid Pennsylvania fishing license. You can purchase a one-day, seven-day, or annual license online through the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission website, or at sporting goods retailers throughout the state. Licenses are inexpensive and can be bought the day you fish.
Glendale Lake follows standard Pennsylvania bass and panfish regulations with no special local rules. Largemouth and smallmouth bass: 12-inch minimum, six per day. Channel catfish: no minimum size, 50 per day. Panfish (bluegill, sunfish): no minimum size, 50 per species per day. Possession limits are the same as daily limits.
Check the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission website or call their regional office before you go to confirm current regulations, as rules can change. The lake is open to public fishing year-round with no seasonal closures.
Getting There and Planning Your Trip
Glendale Lake is located in Columbia County, roughly 15 miles north of Bloomsburg. From Bloomsburg, take PA-487 north toward Catawissa, then follow local roads to the lake. GPS coordinates for the boat launch are approximately 40.9°N, 76.5°W. The drive from Harrisburg is about 90 minutes; from Philadelphia, roughly two hours.
Plan for a half-day or full-day trip. The lake is small enough that you can fish most productive areas in four to six hours. Bring sunscreen, water, and snacks — there are no concessions at the lake. If you plan to fish after dark for catfish, bring a headlamp and tell someone where you are going.
Spring and fall are the best times to visit if you want consistent action and comfortable weather. Summer works if you fish early and late. Winter is for experienced anglers willing to accept slower fishing and cold conditions. Weekday visits are typically less crowded than weekends.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fish Glendale Lake without a boat?
Yes. Shore fishing is possible along parts of the north and east banks, though you will have access to less water than boat anglers. Panfish and catfish can be caught from shore. Bring a rod, tackle, and patience — shore fishing here is slower than boat fishing but still productive.
What is the best time of year to fish here?
Spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) are most reliable. Water temperatures are moderate, fish are active, and weather is comfortable. Summer works early and late in the day. Winter is slower and best left to experienced anglers.
Are there size restrictions on any fish species?
Bass (largemouth and smallmouth) must be at least 12 inches. Catfish and panfish have no minimum size. All species follow Pennsylvania daily limits: six bass per day, 50 catfish per day, 50 panfish per species per day.
Do I need a boat to fish Glendale Lake?
No, but a boat gives you access to more water and deeper structure where larger bass and catfish hold. Kayaks and canoes work well here. If you fish from shore, focus on panfish and catfish in accessible areas.
Where is the nearest place to buy tackle or bait?
Bloomsburg, about 15 minutes south, has sporting goods stores and bait shops. Bring what you need or plan to stop there before heading to the lake. Having tackle and bait on hand saves time and ensures you have what works for the species you are targeting.