The Lackawanna River is a shinning example of a trout stream restored to days of past, better actually.
Running through former coal country in Northeast PA the Lackawanna suffered from the effects of acid mine drainage (AMD).
Efforts of a number of conservation groups have lead to the treatment of a number of the major AMD sources and restoration of the river.
Lackawanna River Fly Fishing for Wild Brown Trout
Today, wild brown trout thrive in the Lackawanna and 11 miles of the river are designated as a PA Class A Wild Trout Stream. This includes the river reach from Carbondale City to Olyphant.
Lackawanna River Fishing Map
Get directions to fishing access points and real-time stream flow data with the DIY Fly Fishing Map
Lackawanna River - Trophy Trout Artificial Lures Only - 5.2 miles
Portions of the Lackawanna River are managed by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission under Trophy Trout Artificial Lures Only regulations. The Trophy Trout section extends from the Gilmartin Street Bridge in Archbald downstream to the Lackawanna Avenue Bridge (SR 0347) in Olyphant with the exception of a mid-section area extending 0.7 mile From the Depot Street Bridge in Jessup downstream to the foot bridge in Robert Mellow Park. Fish must be at least 14" to keep in the Trophy Trout section with a creel limit of two fish.
Lackawanna River Stream Flow
The USGS Lackawanna River stream gauge in Archbald, PA provides real-time stream flow data and is useful in determining when to fish. It's typically best to avoid fishing when stream flows are considerably high than normal.
Lackawanna River Fishing Report
A&G Outfitters publishes a Lackawanna River fishing report that provides current river conditions and a summary of how well the river is fishing.
Visit our Guide to the Best Fly Fishing in Pennsylvania for information on other trout fishing destinations in PA.
and then