​Winter months in Pennsylvania can be harsh. Fishing options are taking to the ice or waiting for that "spring-like" day to hit the local trout stream. Your other option is to take your rods to the beach for a new and exciting adventure on the water.

​As the third largest lake in Pennsylvania, Lake Wallenpaupack is a great fall destination for fishing and relaxation. The man made lake created by PPL electric in 1926 for hydroelectric purposes was originally named by the Lenape Native Americans. Later owned by William Penn, the lake was transformed by over 2,700 men across several years into its current electric generation asset.

​Wallenpaupack offers 52 miles of shoreline and more than 5,700 acres of surface water. The lake reaches a maximum depth of 60 feet and offers exceptional fishing opportunities for smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, walleye, musky, pickerel, various panfish and striped bass. Fishing access is limited to one PA Fish and Boat Commission launch at Mangan Cover, located off of PA Route 590. There are several PPL owned access areas, which require a fee unless you are a camper. Outfitters also offer kayaks, water skiing, parasailing, wakeboarding, jet skies or boats as well as guided fishing trips to help you make the most of your experience. 

​Nestled in the Pocono Mountains, Lake Wallenpaupack is a seasonal destination for nearby residents in New York, New Jersey and Philadelphia with endless activities for the entire family. Visitors enjoy camping, hiking, wildlife, golf, local wineries, scenic lookouts, shopping and great restaurants. Recommendations include Antler Ridge Winery for a unique handcrafted wine and stop at The Rusty Rudder for a casual bite to eat after a long day on the lake. Out favorite resort for a weekend getaway is Ehrhardt's Waterfront Resort. Ehrhardt's offers various accomindations, great food and even a magnificint setting for a wedding. If you plan to go this fall, be sure to check out the Harvest Hoedown, Hawley Winter Fest and Annual 9 Hole Ice Golf Challenge. 

- Phil Manning (FISH THIS)

Shoreline in Pennsylvania is tough to find. One spot that has plenty of it is Presque Isle. The recurving sand spit formed more than 11,000 years ago offers plenty of freshwater beaches and fishing opportunities.

The sandy peninsula, which is also a National Natural Landmark, is encompassed by Presque Isle State Park. The park provides year round recreation opportunities including hiking (over 10 miles of nature trails), biking (14 miles of paved trails), boating (Marina and four launches), scuba diving, fishing (perch, bass, walleye, panfish, pike and steelhead), swimming (9 beaches) and winter activities (ice fishing, skiing, ice skaing, etc.). Explore one of the spectacular lagoons by kayak or canoe (can be rented) or hitch a ride on Lady Kate for a tour around the Bay.

Fishing is popular from both the shore and by boat. Boating is limited in certain parts of Presque Isle so check posted restrictions before launching. Bank fishing is permitted in almost every part of the park. Perch and Panfish are most common along the shore but large bass and northern pike are not uncommon. Minnows are your best bet for panfish and perch. Throw top water (frogs/poppers) and spinners for bass and pike.

Presque Isle is one of those truely unique places in Pennsylvania. When you go the "MUST" do list includes relaxing on one of the many beaches, flying a kite on Kite Beach, visiting the North Pier Lighthouse and searching for the ever elusive beach glass.