Destination PA - Presque Isle

Presque Isle

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.

PA DCNR

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.