Laurel Lake is a small, shallow impoundment in the Pocono region with reliable populations of largemouth bass and panfish

Laurel Lake sits in Pike County in northeastern Pennsylvania, roughly 90 minutes north of Philadelphia and 30 minutes south of the New York border. The lake covers about 63 acres and reaches a maximum depth of around 30 feet, though most of it runs shallower. The water is moderately clear to slightly stained depending on recent rainfall, and the shoreline mixes wooded banks with some residential development on the eastern side.

The fishery here centers on largemouth bass and panfish—primarily bluegill and pumpkinseed sunfish. Bass run small to medium, with most fish in the 10- to 14-inch range and occasional fish pushing 16 to 18 inches. The panfish population is consistent and willing, making Laurel Lake a solid choice if you want steady action over trophy potential. Catfish are present but not the primary draw.

Access is straightforward: a public boat launch sits on the north end of the lake, maintained by the Pike County Parks and Recreation Department. There is also a small parking area and a picnic facility. Bank fishing is possible along portions of the shoreline, though much of the lake is privately owned, so stick to public areas or ask permission before wading or casting from private property.

Key Takeaways

  • Laurel Lake holds largemouth bass and panfish year-round, with the most consistent action from late spring through early fall.
  • A public boat launch on the north end provides the primary access point; bank fishing is limited to public areas.
  • Pennsylvania fishing licenses are required for anyone 16 and older, and you must follow state regulations on species, seasons, and daily limits.
  • The lake is shallow and weedy in many areas, so lightweight tackle and weedless presentations work better than heavy gear.
  • Summer heat can push fish deeper and reduce daytime bite; early morning and evening trips are more productive than midday.

Seasons and Best Times to Fish

Spring (April through May) is when Laurel Lake fishes best. Water temperatures climb into the 50s and 60s, bass move shallow to spawn, and panfish become aggressive. Early morning and late afternoon produce the most consistent results. Topwater lures, soft plastics in the 4- to 6-inch range, and small spinners all work. Panfish will hit small jigs and live crickets or worms.

Summer (June through August) can be productive early and late in the day, but midday fishing slows considerably. Bass retreat to deeper water and shade, particularly around the few submerged timber piles and weed edges on the lake bottom. Panfish remain active in shallow water early in the morning. Bring sunscreen and plan to fish dawn or dusk if you want consistent action.

Fall (September through October) brings another strong bite as water cools and bass return to shallower feeding zones. Largemouths chase baitfish along the weed lines, and panfish are still willing. This is an underrated time to visit—fewer anglers, cooler weather, and reliable fishing.

Winter (November through March) is slow. The lake does not freeze solid most years, but water temperatures drop into the 40s and below, and fish become lethargic. Some anglers target catfish through the winter, but bass and panfish fishing is unpredictable. Most local anglers take a break or fish elsewhere during these months.

What Gear and Tackle to Bring

For bass, a medium-power spinning or baitcasting rod in the 6- to 6.5-foot range works well on Laurel Lake. Pair it with 8- to 12-pound monofilament or braided line. The shallow, weedy character of the lake means you will snag occasionally, so heavier line than you might use on a clearer, deeper lake is practical. Weedless soft plastics—4- to 6-inch Texas-rigged worms or creature baits—are your bread and butter. Topwater lures work in early morning and evening, especially in spring and fall. Small crankbaits and spinners also produce.

For panfish, a light spinning rod with 4- to 6-pound line is ideal. Small jigs (1/16 to 1/8 ounce) tipped with live crickets, waxworms, or small minnows are deadly. Ultralight spinners and small poppers also work. Panfish in shallow lakes like Laurel often respond well to live bait fished under a bobber in 3 to 8 feet of water.

Bring polarized sunglasses—they help you spot shallow structure and weed edges. A landing net is useful for panfish and smaller bass. If you are launching a boat, a depth finder is handy for locating the few deeper holes and weed edges, though you can fish this lake effectively by sight and feel alone.

Pennsylvania Fishing Regulations and Licenses

Anyone 16 years old or older must carry a valid Pennsylvania fishing license. You can purchase a one-day, three-day, or annual license through the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission website or at authorized retailers (tackle shops, sporting goods stores, and some convenience stores carry them). Licenses are also sold at the boat launch on Laurel Lake itself, though availability varies by season.

Largemouth bass have a minimum size of 12 inches and a daily limit of six fish per angler. Panfish (bluegill, pumpkinseed, and other sunfish species) have no minimum size and a daily limit of 50 fish per species. Catfish have no minimum size and a daily limit of 15 fish. These regulations can change, so check the current Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission summary before you fish.

Catch-and-release is allowed year-round, and many anglers practice it on Laurel Lake to preserve the panfish population. If you keep fish, handle them carefully and keep them in a cooler with ice if you plan to keep them for more than a few minutes.

How to Reach Laurel Lake and Where to Stay

Laurel Lake is located in Palmerton, Pike County, Pennsylvania. From Philadelphia, take Interstate 476 north toward the Poconos, then follow local roads to the lake. GPS coordinates for the public boat launch are approximately 40.8°N, 75.3°W. The drive takes about 90 minutes from central Philadelphia and roughly 2 hours from the New York City area.

There is no lodging directly on Laurel Lake, but the Pocono region has numerous hotels, cabins, and vacation rentals within 15 to 30 minutes of the lake. Stroudsburg and East Stroudsburg, about 20 minutes away, have chain hotels and local options. If you are planning a longer trip, consider staying in one of the Pocono resort towns and fishing Laurel Lake as part of a multi-lake itinerary—the region has dozens of lakes and ponds within an hour's drive.

The boat launch has a small parking area, but it fills on weekends during peak season. Arrive early or plan a weekday trip if you want may provide parking. There is a picnic area and restroom facilities at the launch.

What Makes Laurel Lake Different from Other Pocono Lakes

Laurel Lake is smaller and shallower than many of its neighbors in the region—lakes like Wallenpaupack and Mastery are significantly larger and deeper. This makes Laurel Lake more intimate and easier to fish from a small boat or kayak. The weed growth is heavier here than on some clearer Pocono lakes, which concentrates fish in predictable spots but also means you will lose more lures to snags.

The panfish population is notably strong relative to the bass population, so if you want consistent action and do not mind smaller fish, Laurel Lake is a better choice than lakes where bass dominate the fishery. The residential development on the eastern shore is modest compared to some Pocono lakes, so the overall feel is quieter and less crowded.

The lake is also less well-known than the major Pocono destinations, which means fewer anglers on weekdays and even weekends. If you are looking to avoid crowds while still having reliable fishing, Laurel Lake delivers.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

The most common mistake is fishing the middle of the lake during midday in summer. Laurel Lake is shallow enough that fish move to deeper water and shade when the sun is high. Fish the edges—weed lines, timber, and the few deeper holes—and focus on early morning and late evening. A depth finder helps, but even without one, you can locate structure by watching the shoreline and casting to likely spots.

Another mistake is using tackle that is too heavy. This is a panfish lake as much as a bass lake, and light to medium gear will catch more fish overall. Heavy baitcasting rigs and thick line are overkill and will spook panfish in shallow water.

Finally, do not assume the entire lake is fishable. Much of the shoreline is private property. Stick to the public launch area and the immediate surroundings, or ask permission before wading or casting from private banks. Respect posted signs and private property, and you will have a better experience and avoid conflict with residents.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish Laurel Lake from shore?

Yes, but access is limited. The public boat launch area allows bank fishing, and there are a few spots along the north and west shores where you can access the water. Much of the lake is privately owned, so do not trespass. Ask locals or check with the Pike County Parks office if you want to know which areas are open to public bank fishing.

What is the best lure for largemouth bass on Laurel Lake?

Weedless soft plastics—Texas-rigged worms and creature baits in 4- to 6-inch sizes—are the most reliable. Topwater lures work well in early morning and evening, especially in spring and fall. Small crankbaits and spinners also produce. Match your lure color to water clarity: darker colors in stained water, lighter colors when the water is clearer.

Do I need a boat to fish Laurel Lake?

No, but a boat gives you access to more of the lake and deeper water. Bank fishing is possible from the public launch area and a few other spots, but you will be limited to shallow water and the immediate shoreline. A kayak or small canoe is a good middle ground if you want to explore more water without a large motorboat.

What time of year has the fewest anglers?

Winter (November through March) is slowest, but fishing is also poor. Fall (September through October) and early spring (April) have fewer anglers than summer and still offer good fishing. Weekdays are always quieter than weekends, regardless of season.

Are there any restrictions on boat motors?

Check current Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission regulations for Laurel Lake specifically, as motor restrictions vary by lake. Some Pocono lakes allow only electric motors or have horsepower limits. Call the commission or check their website before launching to confirm what is permitted on Laurel Lake.