Fishing In The Pennsylvania Highlands

The Highlands Region of Pennsylvania comprises 13 counties in the southeast part of the state. The area sits in the Appalachian Mountains and is known for its endearing landscapes and rural vacationing adventures. The Appalachian Mountain Club is even planning a trail network to help protect the natural beauty of the Highlands and connect them to trails in New York and New Jersey.

An easy drive from the Philadelphia area, these fishing destinations offer an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of the city:

Minsi Lake

The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission was forced to repair the dam spillway at Minsi Lake in early 2013 after the Environmental Protection Agency deemed it a "high hazard." All repairs were completed in late August and authorities refilled the 117-acre lake to its normal water levels.

Phhoto by Nicholas_T via Flickr

Minsi Lake, located in Upper Mount Bethel Township, is stocked with juvenile walleye several times throughout the year. Largemouth bass, perch and rainbow trout are also abundant. All boats must be registered or have a launch permit issued by the boating commission or the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. The nearby picnic pavilion and archery complex can keep you busy between catches.

Hibernia County Park

Located in Wagontown, Hibernia offers anglers variety that is difficult to match. The West Branch of Brandywine Creek is its best known and most popular fishing spot. The three-mile long brooklet is stocked with both brown and rainbow trout by the West Cain Sportsmen's Club. Smallmouth bass and sunfish are also known to bite.

Photo by Hagley Museum and Library via Wikimedia Commons

Chambers Lake is another spot in Hibernia for anglers to test. The 90-acre lake is a Panfish Enhancement Area and requires bass fishermen to catch-and-release throughout much of the spring. Chambers is also home to channel catfish and chain pickerel. The best part is that you can get started as early or late as you want. Fishing is permitted 24 hours per day.

Lake Nockamixon

Bucks County is bordered on two sides by the Delaware River, making it a prime spot for both walleye and bass fishing. The 1,450-acre Lake Nockamixon offers a complete fishing experience. It features weed beds and drop-offs, along with boating ramps. Carp, muskellunge, pickerel and bass are just a few of the numerous species of fish that bite.

Photo by dfbphotos via Flickr

Nockamixon State Park offers cabins, hiking and picnic areas to provide fun for the whole family. Heck, rent an apartment and visit any time of year for cold and hot weather fishing. Swimming is prohibited in the lake, but the half-acre pool complete with two watersides more than makes up for it. There are six launching areas for boats, all of which are open 24 hours. You can bring your own boat or rent a canoe, kayak or motorboat from the concession area.

This list is nowhere near complete with regards to all the best fishing spots in the Highlands. Make certain to ask the locals about any seasonal events going on while you're there.