What Lake Shohola Offers

Lake Shohola is a 250-acre impoundment in Pike County's Shohola Township, roughly 90 minutes north of the Pocono region and close to the New York border. The lake holds largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, chain pickerel, sunfish, and catfish, with a public boat launch and shoreline access that makes it straightforward to fish without a private lease or membership. The water is relatively shallow — averaging 15 to 20 feet — which keeps the fish active across most of the year and makes spring and fall the most productive seasons.

The lake sits within the Shohola Creek watershed and is managed by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission. Unlike some regional lakes that restrict motors or require special permits, Shohola allows standard electric and gas motors, though the speed limit is 10 miles per hour in designated areas. The shoreline is a mix of wooded banks, marshy coves, and developed property, with the best fishing typically in the deeper channels and around submerged structure.

Key Takeaways

  • Lake Shohola holds largemouth and smallmouth bass, pickerel, sunfish, and catfish, with spring and fall offering the most consistent action.
  • A public boat launch and shoreline access mean you do not need a private lease or club membership to fish the lake.
  • Pennsylvania fishing licenses are required for anyone 16 and older; a one-day license costs less than a full-year permit if you are visiting once.
  • The lake averages 15 to 20 feet deep, so structure like fallen trees and rocky points hold fish year-round.
  • Speed limits and motor restrictions vary by zone, so check current regulations with the Fish and Boat Commission before launching.

Access and Boat Launch

The Shohola Lake public boat launch is located off Shohola Drive on the lake's western shore and is maintained by Pike County. The ramp is a single-lane concrete launch suitable for jon boats, bass boats, and small pontoons. There is a small parking area adjacent to the ramp, though it fills quickly on weekends during peak season. The launch is open year-round during daylight hours, and there is no launch fee.

Shoreline access is also available at several points around the lake, particularly along the northern and eastern banks where public land borders the water. A Pennsylvania fishing license is required to fish from shore or boat. If you do not own a boat, the lake is large enough that shore fishing from the public areas can be productive, especially in spring when bass move into shallower water near the banks.

Species and Seasonal Patterns

Largemouth bass are the primary draw at Lake Shohola. They spawn in shallow coves and marshy areas in April and May, making spring the peak season for sight-fishing and topwater action. Summer fishing slows as the fish move to deeper channels and structure, but early morning and evening sessions can still produce. Fall, from September through November, sees another strong bite as bass feed heavily before winter.

Smallmouth bass are present but less abundant than largemouths. They prefer rocky areas and deeper structure, so they are more reliable in summer and fall when largemouths retreat. Chain pickerel are common throughout the lake and will strike small lures and live baitfish; they are a good option if bass are slow. Sunfish and catfish round out the fishery — sunfish are plentiful in shallow water and make for easy, family-friendly fishing, while catfish can be caught at night with chicken liver or cut bait.

Regulations and Licensing

Pennsylvania requires a fishing license for anyone 16 years old and older. A one-day license is available and costs significantly less than a full-year permit, making it a practical choice if you are visiting once. Licenses are sold online through the Fish and Boat Commission website, at tackle shops in Pike County, and at some sporting goods retailers. You must carry your license while fishing.

Bass regulations on Lake Shohola follow statewide rules: a 12-inch minimum length and a 5-fish daily limit for largemouth bass, and a 10-inch minimum with a 6-fish limit for smallmouth bass. Pickerel have no size restriction and a 10-fish daily limit. These rules change periodically, so check the current Pennsylvania fishing digest or the Fish and Boat Commission website before your trip. The lake is open to fishing year-round, though winter access can be limited by weather and ice.

What to Bring and When to Fish

Spring (April through May) is the best time to visit if you want consistent action and the chance at larger fish. Water temperatures in the 50s to 60s trigger spawning behavior, and shallow coves become active. Bring topwater lures, soft plastics in natural colors, and a polarized pair of sunglasses for sight-fishing. A 6- to 7-foot medium-power rod works well for most of the lake's bass fishing.

Summer fishing requires patience and early starts. Fish the deeper channels and structure during the heat of the day, and focus on dawn and dusk. Soft plastics rigged Texas-style, crankbaits, and live shiners all work. Fall is nearly as good as spring — water temperatures cool, fish become active across the lake, and you can fish throughout the day. Winter fishing is possible but slow; if you go, focus on catfish and pickerel in the deepest holes.

Nearby Services and Lodging

Shohola Township is rural, and the nearest town with lodging and restaurants is Matamoras, about 15 minutes south. Matamoras has a few motels, diners, and a small grocery store. Pike County's larger towns — Milford and Port Jervis (just across the New York border) — offer more options, including chain hotels and tackle shops. The nearest full-service tackle shop is in Milford, roughly 20 minutes away.

Camping is available at private campgrounds in the area, and the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is about 30 minutes south if you want to combine your fishing trip with hiking or other outdoor activities. Gas stations and convenience stores are scattered throughout the region, so plan to refuel before heading to the lake.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish Lake Shohola year-round?

Yes, the lake is open to fishing all year. Winter fishing is slower and access can be limited by ice and weather, but spring, summer, and fall are all productive. Fall is nearly as good as spring for bass fishing.

Do I need a boat to fish Lake Shohola?

No. The public boat launch is available, but shoreline access around the lake allows you to fish from shore. Shore fishing can be productive, especially in spring and early summer when fish move into shallow water.

What is the best lure for Lake Shohola bass?

Topwater lures and soft plastics work well in spring when fish are shallow. In summer and fall, crankbaits, jigs, and live shiners are effective. Pickerel will strike small spinnerbaits and live baitfish. Match your lure color to the water clarity — darker colors in stained water, natural colors in clear water.

How far is Lake Shohola from the Pocono Mountains?

Lake Shohola is roughly 90 minutes north of the central Pocono region. It is closer to the New York border and the Delaware Water Gap than to popular Pocono resort areas.

What should I know about the boat launch?

The public launch is a single-lane concrete ramp on the western shore off Shohola Drive. There is no launch fee, and parking is available but limited. The ramp is open year-round during daylight hours and is suitable for most small to medium recreational boats.