Top Fishing Spots Near Ohiopyle State Park

If you love fishing like we do, the Laurel Highlands are perfect for you! Starting with Ohiopyle State Park, this region is packed with scenic rivers, creeks, and lakes that are full of trout, bass, and many more. 

The calm waters of Youghiogheny Lake and gentle streams like Meadow Run provide ideal settings for young anglers learning the sport. We all agree that watching your child reel in their first fish—whether it’s a feisty smallmouth bass or a tiny, colorful sunfish—is a memory that both of you will cherish forever. So here are some of the top fishing spots around Ohiopyle to make that image come to life! 🎣‍

1. Youghiogheny River

The Youghiogheny River (aka the "Yough”) is a fishing paradise, known for its trophy trout section and diverse fish population. Running right through Ohiopyle State Park, the Yough offers plenty of access points for anglers of all skill levels.

What You’ll Catch:

Rainbow trout, brown trout, smallmouth bass, walleye, channel catfish, carp

Best Fishing Spots:

• Meadow Run Trail Area: Easy access and great for fly fishing.
• Below the Ohiopyle Falls: A prime spot for bass and trout.
• Confluence Area: Where the Casselman River meets the Yough—great for bigger trout that swim upstream to the cooler waters by the dam.

Pro Tips:

• The Yough is stocked multiple times a year with trout.
• Fly fishing is especially popular, but spin casting works well for those bottom feeders and bass lures.
• Early mornings and late afternoons are best for trout, and fishing is generally slower in late summer and early fall when the water temperatures are highest.

2. Meadow Run

‍If you love fly fishing, Meadow Run is a must-visit. This small, clear stream flows through Ohiopyle and is stocked with trout in both the spring and fall. It’s perfect for those looking for a peaceful fishing experience surrounded by stunning scenery.

‍What You’ll Catch:

‍Brook trout, rainbow trout, brown trout

‍Best Fishing Spots:

• Meadow Run Natural Waterslides: Primarily fly fishing in waders.
• Near the Lower Yough Launch Area: Great trout fishing in the colder months.

Pro Tips:

• Bring small dry flies or nymphs.
• The stream is narrow and fast-moving, so more technical casting helps.
• Spring and fall are the best times to fish here due to the colder water temperatures.

3. Youghiogheny Lake

‍About 15 minutes from Ohiopyle, Youghiogheny Lake is an excellent spot for those looking for bigger fish or a relaxing day on the water. The lake is large enough to allow for both shore and boat fishing.

‍What You’ll Catch:

Largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, northern pike, walleye, perch, catfish, carp

‍Best Fishing Spots:

• Jockey Hollow Boat Launch: Great for walleye and bass.
• Somerset Lake Area: Known for its big bass and pike.

Pro Tips:

• Try soft plastics and crankbaits for bass.
• The lake is great for ice fishing if you’re up for it in the winter months.
• Early mornings are best for catching big walleye on a jig or crankbait.

4. Casselman River

‍If you’re looking for a quieter fishing experience, the Casselman River is a great option. Located just north of Ohiopyle, this river is stocked heavily with trout in the spring and has a strong population of wild trout.

‍What You’ll Catch:

‍Rainbow trout, brown trout, brook trout

‍Best Fishing Spots:

• Meyersdale Area: Easy river access and well-stocked with trout.
• Western Maryland Rail Trail Access: A great section for fly fishing.

Pro Tips:

• Spring is the best time to fish due to the trout stocking schedule.
• Use a variety of dry flies, nymphs, and small spinners.
• Wading is popular here!

‍5. Dunbar Creek

‍Dunbar Creek is one of the best-kept secrets for trout fishing near Ohiopyle. This small, freestone stream has plenty of deep pools and runs, making it a perfect fly-fishing destination.

‍What You’ll Catch:

‍Brown trout, brook trout

‍Best Fishing Spots:

• Near Dunbar, PA: Easy parking and good water flow.
• Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail Crossings: More secluded, but worth the hike.

Pro Tips:

• Dunbar Creek is catch-and-release only, so expect big, healthy trout.
• Use small dry flies and streamers if you’re going for the big ones.
• The best fishing times are early morning or late evening.

6. Laurel Hill Creek

‍Laurel Hill Creek is a popular spot for families with its easy access and plenty of stocked trout. It’s also a great place for beginners looking to get into fly fishing.

‍What You’ll Catch:

‍Rainbow trout, brown trout, brook trout

‍Best Fishing Spots:

• Kooser State Park: Great fishing and ease for families.
• Laurel Hill State Park: A mix of wild and stocked trout.

Pro Tips:

• Use live bait or small jigs for the best success.
• The early spring season is best for trout fishing here.

As you can see, there are so many amazing locations for anglers of all skill levels to fish near Benner’s Meadow Run Campground! Whether you're chasing trophy trout in the Yough, jigging for walleye on Youghiogheny Lake, or seeking quieter gems like Dunbar Creek, the Laurel Highlands have you covered!

So grab your fishing buddy and your gear and head to Benner’s! You can also pop out of your campers and enjoy the two stocked ponds that we have on-site. While both are catch-and-release, the fishing memories that you’ll make at Benner’s are timeless!