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Waterbody · Pennsylvania · Maryland

Susquehanna River Fishing Regulations 2026

Susquehanna River fishing regulations in 2026: top targets are catfish, muskellunge, smallmouth bass. 462 current rules across 19 species from 2 state agencies (Pennsylvania, Maryland).

Species pages for Susquehanna River

Dedicated rule pages for the most-targeted species at this water.

Pennsylvania waters

363 rules from Fish & Boat Commission, 14 species.

Smallmouth Bass

Susquehanna RiverClosed
Status
Prohibited
From April 12 to June 13: No tournaments permitted.
Verified · View official source ↗
Susquehanna River (98.0 Miles) From The Inflatable Dam Near Sunbury Downstream To Holtwood Dam Including All Tributaries To A Point ½ Mile Upstream From The Confluence.Catch & release
Status
Catch And Release
January 1 to December 31: NO HARVEST CATCH AND IMMEDIATE RELEASE ONLY. It is unlawful for an angler to cast repeatedly into a clearly visible bass spawning nest or redd in an effort to catch or take bass as with Commonwealth Inland Waters fishing regulations. From January 1 to April 11 and June 14 to December 31: Catch-measure-immediate release tournaments permitted. From April 12 to June 13: No tournaments permitted.
Verified · View official source ↗
Beaverdam Run ReservoirCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Season opens
Apr 12
Season closes
Jun 13
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Blue Marsh LakeCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Season opens
Apr 12
Season closes
Jun 13
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Bradys Run LakeCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Season opens
Apr 12
Season closes
Jun 13
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Bridgeport ReservoirCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Canoe Creek Lake (State Park) To Include Two Small Ponds And Raceway Adjacent To Canoe LakeCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Season opens
Apr 12
Season closes
Jun 13
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Carsonia LakeCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Season opens
Apr 12
Season closes
Jun 13
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Chambers LakeCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Colyer LakeCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Commonwealth Inland Waters
Daily bag
4 fish/day
Jan 1 – Apr 11 / Oct 1 – Dec 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Commonwealth Inland Waters -
Daily bag
4 fish/day
Min size
15"
Oct 1-Dec 31, Combined Species Oct 1-Dec 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Conowingo Reservoir
Min size
12"
Verified · View official source ↗
Conowingo Reservoir Up To Holtwood DamIn season
Season opens
Jun 16
Season closes
Dec 31
Daily bag
5 fish/day
Min size
12"
combined species
Verified · View official source ↗
Conowingo Reservoir, Combined Species
Daily bag
5 fish/day
Verified · View official source ↗
Cross Creek LakeCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Delaware RiverCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Season opens
Apr 12
Season closes
Jun 13
Daily bag
5 fish/day
Min size
12"
NO HARVEST - immediate release only combined species
Verified · View official source ↗
Delaware River -
Daily bag
5 fish/day
Jun 13-Dec 31, Combined Species
Verified · View official source ↗
Delaware River And EstuaryCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Season opens
Apr 12
Season closes
Jun 13
Daily bag
5 fish/day
Min size
12"
NO HARVEST combined species
Verified · View official source ↗
Delaware River, West Branch Delaware River And Delaware River Tributaries, From The Mouths Of The Tributaries Upstream To The Limit Of The Tidal Influence And The Lehigh River From Its Mouth Upstream To The First Dam In Easton, PennsylvaniaCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Season opens
Apr 12
Season closes
Jun 13
Daily bag
5 fish/day
Min size
12"
NO HARVEST - immediate release only combined species
Verified · View official source ↗
Donegal Lake - Big Bass Program
Daily bag
4 fish/day
Jan 1-Apr 10 And Jun 13-Dec 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Duman LakeCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Season opens
Apr 12
Season closes
Jun 13
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Frances Slocum Lake (State Park)Catch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Glade Run LakeCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Season opens
Apr 12
Season closes
Jun 13
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Gouldsboro LakeCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Harris PondCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Hinckston Run ReservoirCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Season opens
Apr 12
Season closes
Jun 13
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Hopewell LakeCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Season opens
Apr 12
Season closes
Jun 13
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Hunters Lake — Commonwealth Inland Waters
Daily bag
6 fish/day combined
Jun 13–Sept 30
Verified · View official source ↗
Indian Creek Reservoir (Mill Run Reservoir)Catch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Indian LakeCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Juniata RiverClosed
Status
Prohibited
From April 12 to June 13: No tournaments permitted.
Verified · View official source ↗
Juniata River (31.7 Miles) From Sr0075 Bridge At Port Royal Downstream To The Mouth Including All Tributaries To A Point ½ Mile Upstream From The Confluence.Catch & release
Status
Catch And Release
January 1 to December 31: NO HARVEST CATCH AND IMMEDIATE RELEASE ONLY. It is unlawful for an angler to cast repeatedly into a clearly visible bass spawning nest or redd in an effort to catch or take bass as with Commonwealth Inland Waters fishing regulations. From January 1 to April 11 and June 14 to December 31: Catch-measure-immediate release tournaments permitted. From April 12 to June 13: No tournaments permitted.
Verified · View official source ↗
Kaercher Creek DamCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Season opens
Apr 12
Season closes
Jun 13
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Keystone LakeCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Season opens
Apr 12
Season closes
Jun 13
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Keystone Lake (State Park)Catch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Lackawanna Lake (State Park)Catch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Lake Arthur (Moraine State Park)Catch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Season opens
Apr 12
Season closes
Jun 13
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Lake ChillisquaqueCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Lake ErieOut of season
Season opens
Apr 12
Season closes
Jun 13
Daily bag
1 fish
Min size
20"
Applies to Lake Erie, Presque Isle Bay and peninsular waters, all Lake Erie tributaries in their entirety, which include Cascade Creek, Conneaut Creek, Crooked Creek, East Branch Conneaut Creek, Eightmile Creek, Elk Creek, Fourmile Creek, Middle Branch Conneaut Creek, Marsh Run, Mill Creek, Mud Run, Raccoon Creek, Sevenmile Creek, Sixmile Creek, Sixteenmile Creek, Stone Run, Temple Run, Turkey Creek, Twelvemile Creek, Twentymile Creek, Walnut Creek, West Branch Conneaut Creek and all waters that flow into these tributaries.
Verified · View official source ↗
Lake Erie -
Daily bag
4 fish/day
Jun 13-Dec 31, Combined Species
Verified · View official source ↗
Lake Marburg (Codorus State Park)Catch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Lake NessmukCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Lake RedmanCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Lake TowheeCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Season opens
Apr 12
Season closes
Jun 13
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Lake WilliamsCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Lakes (Big Bass Program)Catch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Season opens
Apr 12
Season closes
Jun 13
Daily bag
4 fish/day
Min size
15"
NO HARVEST - Catch and immediate release only (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. combined species
Verified · View official source ↗
Lakes, Rivers And StreamsCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Season opens
Jun 14
Season closes
Sep 30
Daily bag
6 fish/day
Min size
12"
NO HARVEST - Catch and immediate release only (no tournaments permitted); begins at 12:01 a.m. combined species
Verified · View official source ↗
Leaser LakeCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Lily LakeCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Little Bufalo Lake(Holman Lake)Catch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Mammoth DamCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Marsh Creek Lake (State Park)Catch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Marshall LakeCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Season opens
Apr 12
Season closes
Jun 13
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Mauch Chunk LakeCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Nockamixon Lake (State Park)Catch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Season opens
Apr 12
Season closes
Jun 13
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
North Park LakeCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Season opens
Apr 12
Season closes
Jun 13
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Northmoreland LakeCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Opossum LakeCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Peters Twp. Lake(Res. #2)Catch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Pinchot Lake(State Park)Catch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Pymatuning ReservoirOpen year-round
Season opens
Jan 1
Season closes
Dec 31
Daily bag
5
Min size
12"
Verified · View official source ↗
Quemahoning ReservoirCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Rose Valley LakeCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Shawnee Lake (State Park)Catch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Season opens
Apr 12
Season closes
Jun 13
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Shenango River LakeCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Speedwell Forge LakeCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Stevens LakeCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Stevens Lake (Big Bass Program)
Daily bag
4 fish/day
Verified · View official source ↗
Sugar LakeCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Tamarack LakeCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Tamarack Lake – Big Bass Program
Daily bag
4 fish/day
Verified · View official source ↗
Twin Lake Number Two Reservoir(Upper)Catch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Twin Lakes Number One Reservoir (Lower)Catch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Two Mile Run Reservoir (Justus Lake)Catch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Upper, Middle And Lower Deer LakesCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Season opens
Apr 12
Season closes
Jun 13
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Virgin Run Lake – Commonwealth Inland Waters
Daily bag
4 fish/day
(combined species); June 13–Sept 30
Verified · View official source ↗
Wilmore DamCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Season opens
Apr 12
Season closes
Jun 13
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
Yellow Creek Lake (State Park)Catch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Daily bag
4 combined species
Min size
15"
April 12 through June 13 (no tournaments permitted). NO HARVEST begins at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 through April 11 and June 14 through Dec. 31
Verified · View official source ↗

Muskellunge

Commonwealth Inland WatersOpen
Status
Open
Daily bag
1 fish/day
Min size
40"
Open year-round combined species
Verified · View official source ↗
Commonwealth Inland Waters, Combined With Tiger Muskellunge
Daily bag
1 fish/day
Verified · View official source ↗
Conneaut LakeCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
From April 1 through May 31, fishing for these species is permitted on a catch and release/no harvest basis. It is unlawful to take or possess any Muskellunge, Tiger Muskellunge (hybrids), Northern Pike and pickerel from these lakes during this period. When caught, these fish species shall be immediately returned unharmed.
Verified · View official source ↗
Conowingo Reservoir
Daily bag
1 fish/day
Min size
16"
Verified · View official source ↗
Conowingo Reservoir Up To Holtwood DamOpen year-round
Season opens
Jan 1
Season closes
Dec 31
Daily bag
1
Min size
36"
Verified · View official source ↗
Conowingo Reservoir, Combined With Striped Bass/White Bass Hybrids
Daily bag
4 fish/day
Verified · View official source ↗
Delaware RiverOpen
Status
Open
Daily bag
1 fish/day
Min size
40"
Open year-round
Verified · View official source ↗
Delaware River And EstuaryOpen
Status
Open
Daily bag
1 fish/day
Min size
40"
Open year-round
Verified · View official source ↗
Delaware River, Combined With Tiger Muskellunge
Daily bag
1 fish/day
Verified · View official source ↗
Delaware River, West Branch Delaware River And Delaware River Tributaries, From The Mouths Of The Tributaries Upstream To The Limit Of The Tidal Influence And The Lehigh River From Its Mouth Upstream To The First Dam In Easton, PennsylvaniaOpen
Status
Open
Daily bag
1 fish/day
Min size
40"
Open year-round
Verified · View official source ↗
Donegal Lake - Commonwealth Inland Waters
Daily bag
1 fish/day
Verified · View official source ↗
Edinboro LakeCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
From April 1 through May 31, fishing for these species is permitted on a catch and release/no harvest basis. It is unlawful to take or possess any Muskellunge, Tiger Muskellunge (hybrids), Northern Pike and pickerel from these lakes during this period. When caught, these fish species shall be immediately returned unharmed.
Verified · View official source ↗
Howard Eaton ReservoirCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
From April 1 through May 31, fishing for these species is permitted on a catch and release/no harvest basis. It is unlawful to take or possess any Muskellunge, Tiger Muskellunge (hybrids), Northern Pike and pickerel from these lakes during this period. When caught, these fish species shall be immediately returned unharmed.
Verified · View official source ↗
Hunters Lake — Commonwealth Inland Waters
Daily bag
1 fish/day combined
Verified · View official source ↗
Lake CanadohtaCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
From April 1 through May 31, fishing for these species is permitted on a catch and release/no harvest basis. It is unlawful to take or possess any Muskellunge, Tiger Muskellunge (hybrids), Northern Pike and pickerel from these lakes during this period. When caught, these fish species shall be immediately returned unharmed.
Verified · View official source ↗
Lake ErieOpen
Status
Open
Daily bag
1 fish
Min size
40"
Applies to Lake Erie, Presque Isle Bay and peninsular waters, all Lake Erie tributaries in their entirety, which include Cascade Creek, Conneaut Creek, Crooked Creek, East Branch Conneaut Creek, Eightmile Creek, Elk Creek, Fourmile Creek, Middle Branch Conneaut Creek, Marsh Run, Mill Creek, Mud Run, Raccoon Creek, Sevenmile Creek, Sixmile Creek, Sixteenmile Creek, Stone Run, Temple Run, Turkey Creek, Twelvemile Creek, Twentymile Creek, Walnut Creek, West Branch Conneaut Creek and all waters that flow into these tributaries.
Verified · View official source ↗
Lake Erie Tributary Streams
Daily bag
1 fish/day
Verified · View official source ↗
Lake Nessmuk
Daily bag
1 fish/day
Verified · View official source ↗
Lake WilhelmCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
From April 1 through May 31, fishing for these species is permitted on a catch and release/no harvest basis. It is unlawful to take or possess any Muskellunge, Tiger Muskellunge (hybrids), Northern Pike and pickerel from these lakes during this period. When caught, these fish species shall be immediately returned unharmed.
Verified · View official source ↗
Lily Lake (Commonwealth Inland Waters)
Daily bag
1 fish/day combined
Verified · View official source ↗
Mauch Chunk Lake
Daily bag
1 fish/day
(combined with Tiger Muskellunge)
Verified · View official source ↗
Pymatuning ReservoirOpen year-round
Season opens
Jan 1
Season closes
Dec 31
Daily bag
2
Min size
30"
combined species
Verified · View official source ↗
Rose Valley Lake (Commonwealth Inland Waters, Combined With Tiger Muskellunge)
Daily bag
1 fish/day
Verified · View official source ↗
Stevens Lake (Commonwealth Inland Waters)
Daily bag
1 fish/day
Verified · View official source ↗
Virgin Run Lake – Commonwealth Inland Waters
Daily bag
1 fish/day
(combined with Tiger Muskellunge)
Verified · View official source ↗
Woodcock Creek LakeCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
From April 1 through May 31, fishing for these species is permitted on a catch and release/no harvest basis. It is unlawful to take or possess any Muskellunge, Tiger Muskellunge (hybrids), Northern Pike and pickerel from these lakes during this period. When caught, these fish species shall be immediately returned unharmed.
Verified · View official source ↗
Pennsylvania statewide
Daily bag
2 fish/day
Pymatuning Reservoir (Combined With Tiger Muskellunge)
Verified · View official source ↗

Tiger Muskellunge

Commonwealth Inland WatersOpen
Status
Open
Min size
40"
Open year-round
Verified · View official source ↗
Delaware RiverOpen
Status
Open
Min size
40"
Open year-round
Verified · View official source ↗
Delaware River And EstuaryOpen
Status
Open
Min size
40"
Open year-round
Verified · View official source ↗
Delaware River, West Branch Delaware River And Delaware River Tributaries, From The Mouths Of The Tributaries Upstream To The Limit Of The Tidal Influence And The Lehigh River From Its Mouth Upstream To The First Dam In Easton, PennsylvaniaOpen
Status
Open
Min size
40"
Open year-round
Verified · View official source ↗
Hunters Lake — Commonwealth Inland Waters
Daily bag
1 fish/day combined
Verified · View official source ↗
Lake Erie
Min size
40"
Verified · View official source ↗
Lake Erie, Combined With Muskellunge
Daily bag
2 fish/day
Verified · View official source ↗
Lily Lake (Commonwealth Inland Waters)
Daily bag
1 fish/day combined
Verified · View official source ↗
Pymatuning Reservoir
Min size
30"
Verified · View official source ↗
Pymatuning Reservoir, Combined With Muskellunge
Daily bag
2 fish/day
Verified · View official source ↗
Pennsylvania statewide
Daily bag
1 fish/day
Commonwealth Inland Waters (Combined With Muskellunge)
Verified · View official source ↗

American Eel

Susquehanna RiverOpen year-round
Season opens
Jan 1
Season closes
Dec 31
Daily bag
25 fish
Min size
9"
Open year-round 25 9 inches
Verified · View official source ↗
Susquehanna River And TributariesOpen year-round
Season opens
Jan 1
Season closes
Dec 31
Daily bag
25 fish
Min size
9"
Open year-round 25 9 inches
Verified · View official source ↗

Catfish

Commonwealth Inland WatersOpen
Status
Open
Daily bag
50 fish/day
Open year-round combined species
Verified · View official source ↗
Commonwealth Waters
Gear
Spears Or Gigs
Verified · View official source ↗
Conowingo Reservoir (Combined)
Daily bag
15 fish/day
Verified · View official source ↗
Conowingo Reservoir, Combined Species
Daily bag
15 fish/day
Verified · View official source ↗
Lake ErieOpen
Status
Open
Daily bag
50 fish
Applies to Lake Erie, Presque Isle Bay and peninsular waters, all Lake Erie tributaries in their entirety, which include Cascade Creek, Conneaut Creek, Crooked Creek, East Branch Conneaut Creek, Eightmile Creek, Elk Creek, Fourmile Creek, Middle Branch Conneaut Creek, Marsh Run, Mill Creek, Mud Run, Raccoon Creek, Sevenmile Creek, Sixmile Creek, Sixteenmile Creek, Stone Run, Temple Run, Turkey Creek, Twelvemile Creek, Twentymile Creek, Walnut Creek, West Branch Conneaut Creek and all waters that flow into these tributaries. Applies to Lake Erie, Presque Isle Bay and peninsular waters, all Lake Erie tributaries in their entirety, which include Cascade Creek, Conneaut Creek, Crooked Creek, East Branch Conneaut Creek, Eightmile Creek, Elk Creek, Fourmile Creek, Middle Branch Conneaut Creek, Marsh Run, Mill Creek, Mud Run, Raccoon Creek, Sevenmile Creek, Sixmile Creek, Sixteenmile Creek, Stone Run, Temple Run, Turkey Creek, Twelvemile Creek, Twentymile Creek, Walnut Creek, West Branch Conneaut Creek and all waters that flow into these tributaries.; (combined species)
Verified · View official source ↗
Pennsylvania statewide
Gear
Bow And Arrow
Bow and arrow (including compound bows and crossbows) may be used for taking ONLY snakeheads, carp, suckers and catfish on all Commonwealth waters, day or night.
Verified · View official source ↗

Striped Bass And Striped Bass/White Bass Hybrids

Susquehanna River And TributariesOpen year-round
Season opens
Jan 1
Season closes
Dec 31
Daily bag
2 fish
Min size
20"
Open year-round 2 (combined species) 20 inches
Verified · View official source ↗
Susquehanna River
Season opens
Jan 1
Daily bag
2 fish
Min size
20"
Open year-round 2 (combined species) 20 inches
Verified · View official source ↗

All Species

Susquehanna River And TributariesClosed
Status
Closed
CLOSED YEAR-ROUND
Verified · View official source ↗
West Branch Susquehanna River (Sr 1001 Bridge Near Hyde To First Railroad Bridge Downstream Of The Confluence With Moose Creek)Open
Status
Permitted
Stocked Trout Waters Open to Year-Round Fishing
Verified · View official source ↗
West Branch Susquehanna RiverOpen
Status
Open
Open to Year-Round Fishing
Verified · View official source ↗
West Branch Susquehanna River (Anderson Creek To Sr 2024 Crossing At Porters Bridge)Open
Status
Permitted
Stocked Trout Waters Open to Year-Round Fishing
Verified · View official source ↗
West Branch Susquehanna River (26.1 Miles; From Outflow Of Amd Treatment Plant Near Watkins Downstream To Confluence Of Cush Creek Near Dowler Junction)Catch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Catch and Release All Tackle
Verified · View official source ↗

American Shad

Susquehanna River And TributariesClosed
Status
Closed
CLOSED YEAR-ROUND
Verified · View official source ↗
Susquehanna RiverClosed
Status
Prohibited
Unlawful to take, catch or kill American Shad in the Susquehanna River and all its tributaries.
Verified · View official source ↗
Susquehanna River TributariesClosed
Status
Prohibited
Unlawful to take, catch or kill American Shad in the Susquehanna River and all its tributaries.
Verified · View official source ↗
Susquehanna River And All Its TributariesClosed
Status
Prohibited
Unlawful to take, catch or kill American Shad
Verified · View official source ↗

Channel Catfish

Conowingo Reservoir Up To Holtwood DamOpen year-round
Season opens
Jan 1
Season closes
Dec 31
Daily bag
5
Verified · View official source ↗
Lake Erie (Erie Co.)
Gear
Consumption Advisory
1 meal/month | PCB
Verified · View official source ↗

River Herring (Alewife And Blueback Herring)

Susquehanna River And TributariesClosed
Status
Closed
CLOSED YEAR-ROUND season with zero daily limit
Verified · View official source ↗
Susquehanna River TributariesClosed
Status
Closed
closed year-round season with zero daily limit applied to Susquehanna River and tributaries, Lehigh River and tributaries, Schuylkill River and tributaries, West Branch Delaware River, Delaware River, Delaware estuary, Delaware River tributaries upstream to the limit of the tidal influence and Conowingo Reservoir.
Verified · View official source ↗
Susquehanna RiverClosed
Status
Closed
closed year-round season with zero daily limit applied to Susquehanna River and tributaries, Lehigh River and tributaries, Schuylkill River and tributaries, West Branch Delaware River, Delaware River, Delaware estuary, Delaware River tributaries upstream to the limit of the tidal influence and Conowingo Reservoir.
Verified · View official source ↗

Largemouth Bass

Susquehanna RiverClosed
Status
Prohibited
From April 12 to June 13: No tournaments permitted.
Verified · View official source ↗
Susquehanna River (98.0 Miles) From The Inflatable Dam Near Sunbury Downstream To Holtwood Dam Including All Tributaries To A Point ½ Mile Upstream From The Confluence.Catch & release
Status
Catch And Release
January 1 to December 31: NO HARVEST CATCH AND IMMEDIATE RELEASE ONLY. It is unlawful for an angler to cast repeatedly into a clearly visible bass spawning nest or redd in an effort to catch or take bass as with Commonwealth Inland Waters fishing regulations. From January 1 to April 11 and June 14 to December 31: Catch-measure-immediate release tournaments permitted. From April 12 to June 13: No tournaments permitted.
Verified · View official source ↗

Rock Bass

Susquehanna RiverOpen
Status
Open
Open year-round
Verified · View official source ↗
Susquehanna River And TributariesOpen
Status
Open
Open year-round
Verified · View official source ↗

Plus 2 more species. See the Pennsylvania pillar page for the full list.

Maryland waters

99 rules from DNR, 11 species.

Smallmouth Bass

Chesapeake BayClosed
Status
Closed
May not be used to take largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, striped bass, all shark species, snapping turtles and any threatened or endangered species
Verified · View official source ↗
Chesapeake Bay Division
Min size
20"
Verified · View official source ↗
Johnson Pond, Wicomico County
Possession
1 fish
Slot min
11"
Slot max
15"
may be 15 inches or longer
Verified · View official source ↗
Johnson Pond, Wicomico County.
Daily bag
1 fish
Min size
15"
Slot min
11"
Slot max
15"
Only one bass in possession may be 15 inches or longer. No bass in possession can measure between 11 and 15 inches long.
Verified · View official source ↗
Leonard Mill Pond, Wicomico County
Possession
1 fish
Slot min
11"
Slot max
15"
may be 15 inches or longer
Verified · View official source ↗
Leonard Mill Pond, Wicomico County.
Daily bag
1 fish
Min size
15"
Slot min
11"
Slot max
15"
Only one bass in possession may be 15 inches or longer. No bass in possession can measure between 11 and 15 inches long.
Verified · View official source ↗
Little Seneca Lake, Montgomery County
Possession
1 fish
Slot min
11"
Slot max
15"
may be 15 inches or longer
Verified · View official source ↗
Little Seneca Lake, Montgomery County.
Daily bag
1 fish
Min size
15"
Slot min
11"
Slot max
15"
Only one bass in possession may be 15 inches or longer. No bass in possession can measure between 11 and 15 inches long.
Verified · View official source ↗
Monocacy River—From The Potomac River Upstream To Buckeystown DamCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
You must immediately release any largemouth or smallmouth bass into the water where it was caught.
Verified · View official source ↗
Monocacy River—From The Potomac River Upstream To Buckeystown Dam.Closed
Status
Closed
Verified · View official source ↗
Nontidal Division
Min size
20"
Verified · View official source ↗
Patapsco River—From Interstate 70 Downstream To Md Route 144 (Frederick Road)Catch & release
Status
Catch And Release
You must immediately release any largemouth or smallmouth bass into the water where it was caught.
Verified · View official source ↗
Patapsco River—From Interstate 70 Downstream To Md Route 144 (Frederick Road).Closed
Status
Closed
Verified · View official source ↗
Potomac River—From Dam No. 2 (Seneca Breaks) Upstream To The Mouth Of The Monocacy RiverCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
You must immediately release any largemouth or smallmouth bass into the water where it was caught.
Verified · View official source ↗
Potomac River—From Dam No. 2 (Seneca Breaks) Upstream To The Mouth Of The Monocacy River.Closed
Status
Closed
Verified · View official source ↗
St. Mary’s Lake, St. Mary’s County— Located On Md Route 5.
Daily bag
1 fish
Min size
15"
Slot min
11"
Slot max
15"
Only one bass in possession may be 15 inches or longer. No bass in possession can measure between 11 and 15 inches long.
Verified · View official source ↗
St. Mary’s Lake, St. Mary’s County—Located On Md Route 5
Possession
1 fish
Slot min
11"
Slot max
15"
may be 15 inches or longer
Verified · View official source ↗
Tidal Tributaries Of The Chesapeake BayClosed
Status
Closed
May not be used to take largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, striped bass, all shark species, snapping turtles and any threatened or endangered species
Verified · View official source ↗
Youghiogheny River Lake (Reservoir)Catch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Season opens
Jun 13
Season closes
Oct 31
Daily bag
6 fish/day
No Harvest (Catch and Release) all other dates; No tournaments during closure. in aggregate
Verified · View official source ↗
Maryland statewide
Season opens
Jun 16
Daily bag
5 fish/day
Possession
10 fish
Min size
12"
in aggregate or as provided for by special regulations.
Verified · View official source ↗

Striped Bass

Susquehanna Flats, Lower Susquehanna River, And Northeast RiverCatch & release
Status
Catch And Release
Daily bag
1 fish/day
Min size
19"
Max size
24"
Gear
No Live Bait
DEC. 6–DEC. 31 SEPT. 1–DEC. 5 Eels may not be used as bait. DEC. 6–DEC. 31
Verified · View official source ↗
All Areas Open To Catch And Release Fishing Only. (Susquehanna Flats, Lower Susquehanna River, And Northeast River)Closed
Status
Closed
Season opens
Dec 6
Season closes
Dec 31
Gear
No Live Bait
No harvest Eels may not be used as bait.
Verified · View official source ↗
Susquehanna Flats, Upstream Of A Line From Sandy Point To Turkey Point And The Susquehanna River Downstream From A Line Connecting The Susquehanna State Park Boat Ramp At Lapidum (Defined By Lat. 39°35.86' N And Long. 76°07.67' W) To Twin Rocks (Defined By Lat. 39°36.17' N And Long. 76°07.56' W) To Tomes Wharf In Port Deposit (Defined By Lat. 39°36.23' N And Long. 76°06.99' W); And The Northeast River.Closed
Status
Closed
Season opens
Mar 1
Season closes
Mar 31
Gear
No Live Bait
No harvest. Eels may not be used as bait.
Verified · View official source ↗
All Areas Closed To Striped Bass Fishing. (Susquehanna Flats, Lower Susquehanna River, And Northeast River)Closed
Status
Closed
Season opens
Aug 1
Season closes
Aug 31
No targeting. Attempting to catch striped bass is illegal during this time period.
Verified · View official source ↗
All Areas Open. (Susquehanna Flats, Lower Susquehanna River, And Northeast River)Out of season
Season opens
Sep 1
Season closes
Dec 5
Daily bag
1 fish/day
Min size
19"
Max size
24"
Verified · View official source ↗

Channel Catfish

All AreasOpen
Status
Permitted
LEGALLY HUNTED FISH INCLUDE Channel Catfish
Verified · View official source ↗
Chesapeake Bay Division
Min size
30"
Verified · View official source ↗
Nontidal Division
Min size
30"
Verified · View official source ↗
Maryland statewide
Daily bag
5 fish/day
Possession
10 fish
Verified · View official source ↗

Blue Catfish

All WaterbodiesClosed
Status
Prohibited
It is illegal to release live catfish into a waterbody different than where it was caught.
Verified · View official source ↗
Invasive Division
Gear
Angling Only
All legal recreational fishing gear including rod and reel, bow and spear is eligible
Verified · View official source ↗
Invasive Species Division
Min size
40"
Invasive species division—only harvested fish are eligible
Verified · View official source ↗
Maryland statewideOpen
Status
Permitted
Gear
Finfish Trotlines
There are licenses that allow you to use finfish trotlines to harvest and sell blue catfish There are licenses that allow you to use finfish trotlines to harvest and sell blue and flathead catfish caught from tidal waters.
Verified · View official source ↗

Flathead Catfish

All WaterbodiesClosed
Status
Prohibited
It is illegal to release live catfish into a waterbody different than where it was caught.
Verified · View official source ↗
Invasive Division
Gear
Angling Only
All legal recreational fishing gear including rod and reel, bow and spear is eligible
Verified · View official source ↗
Invasive Species Division
Min size
34"
Invasive species division—only harvested fish are eligible
Verified · View official source ↗
Maryland statewideOpen
Status
Permitted
Gear
Finfish Trotlines
There are licenses that allow you to use finfish trotlines to harvest and sell flathead catfish There are licenses that allow you to use finfish trotlines to harvest and sell blue and flathead catfish caught from tidal waters.
Verified · View official source ↗

Tiger Muskie

Nontidal Division
Min size
40"
Verified · View official source ↗
Maryland statewideClosed
Status
Prohibited
Daily bag
1 fish/day
Possession
2 fish
Min size
36"
Cannot be used as bait.
Verified · View official source ↗

Muskellunge

Nontidal Division
Min size
40"
Verified · View official source ↗
Maryland statewide
Daily bag
1 fish/day
Possession
2 fish
Min size
36"
Verified · View official source ↗

Catfish

Conococheague CreekOpen
Status
Permitted
Dip nets may only be used in areas of the Potomac River, Monocacy River and Conococheague Creek that lie within Allegany, Carroll, Frederick and Washington counties to catch catfish
Verified · View official source ↗
Monocacy RiverOpen
Status
Permitted
Dip nets may only be used in areas of the Potomac River, Monocacy River and Conococheague Creek that lie within Allegany, Carroll, Frederick and Washington counties to catch catfish
Verified · View official source ↗
Potomac RiverOpen
Status
Permitted
Dip nets may only be used in areas of the Potomac River, Monocacy River and Conococheague Creek that lie within Allegany, Carroll, Frederick and Washington counties to catch catfish
Verified · View official source ↗

All Species

Susquehanna RiverOpen
Status
Permitted
If fishing upstream of this location, nontidal fishing regulations apply. If fishing downstream, tidal regulations apply.
Verified · View official source ↗
Perryville Ice House Park—Within The Park Boundaries Of Ice House Park Downstream Of The Route 40 Bridge On The Susquehanna River.Open
Status
Permitted
License-free fishing area. Angler registration required for tidal water.
Verified · View official source ↗

Crayfish

Susquehanna River BasinClosed
Status
Prohibited
Sex Restriction
No Egg Bearing
it is illegal to Catch and possess a female crayfish with eggs attached to the underside of the abdomen. it is illegal to: Catch or process any species of crayfish unless the head is immediately removed behind the eyes upon capture. Use any species of crayfish as bait unless the head is removed behind the eyes. Catch and possess a female crayfish with eggs attached to the underside of the abdomen.
Verified · View official source ↗

Tiger Muskellunge

Maryland statewideClosed
Status
Prohibited
To use tiger muskellunge as bait
Verified · View official source ↗

FAQ

Which states regulate fishing on Susquehanna River?

Susquehanna River spans 2 states (Pennsylvania, Maryland). Each state's wildlife agency sets rules for its own waters; Fish & Boat Commission / DNR.

What species can I target on Susquehanna River?

Susquehanna River is best known for catfish, muskellunge, smallmouth bass. Other species are present and tracked in the rule tables below.

Where should I verify these rules?

These rules summarize Fish & Boat Commission / DNR's published content. Always confirm with the official source before keeping a catch.

Reference only. Regulations change mid-season. Always verify with the official source before keeping a catch.

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