Lackawaxen River Fishing: Not Fly-Only—Bait & Lures Welcome Too

No—the Lackawaxen River (PA) is not fly-fishing-only. Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission regulations permit all legal angling methods unless specific special-regulation sections say otherwise.

What's Allowed

• Fly fishing – Popular for trout (brown, rainbow, brook).
• Spin/baitcasting with artificial lures – Spinners, spoons, plugs, soft plastics.
• Bait fishing – Worms, minnows, salmon eggs, PowerBait (where legal).

Key Regulations (Check Current Summary Book)

• Trout season – Opening day (April) + extended seasons vary by section.
• Creel limits – Typically 5 combined trout/day (special regs may differ).
• Size limits – Often 7–9" minimum.
• Gear restrictions – Some stretches: artificial lures only, barbless hooks, catch-and-release.
• License – PA fishing license + trout permit required (16+).

River Character

~31 mi from Prompton Dam to Delaware River. Tailwater section below dam = cold, clear, trout-friendly. Lower river = warmer, smallmouth bass, walleye, muskellunge.

Pro Tip

Check PFBC "Special Regulation Areas" map for the Lackawaxen. Popular stretches (e.g., below Hawley) often have trophy trout / artificial lures only rules. Know before you cast.