Lackawanna River

Lackawanna River

PA

River

About Lackawanna River

The Lackawanna River, a revitalized 60-mile tributary of the Susquehanna in northeastern Pennsylvania, offers a surprisingly productive urban and suburban fly fishing experience. This Class A wild trout stream supports healthy populations of wild brown trout, with supplemental stockings of rainbows and browns. Key hatches include Blue Quill, Hendrickson, Blue-Winged Olive, Caddis, and Light Cahill, making it a strong destination for dry fly and nymphing. Notable sections include the Trophy Trout area between Scranton and Dunmore, managed under Trophy Trout Artificial Lures Only regulations, and areas near Archbald with deep runs and undercut banks. Excellent access is provided by the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail, with key points like Olive Street in Scranton and Parker Street in Dunmore. Tributaries such as Roaring Brook and Spring Brook also offer opportunities for wild trout.

Access

Easy AccessUrban

Seasons

SpringFallYear Round

Water

Urban StreamLarge River

Fish Species

Brown Trout

Rainbow Trout

Regulations

Catch & Release: All fish must be immediately released. Handle with care using barbless hooks.

Artificial Lures Only: No natural bait permitted. Flies, lures, and artificial attractants only.

Fishing Styles

Dry FlyNymphing

undefined USGS Water Conditions

Water conditions for the last 7 days. You can gain insights to fishing activity based on these conditions, like water temperature and flow.

Data sourced from the USGS National Water Information System

Methods

Wade Friendly

Float Friendly

Land Ownership

Public Forest Service

Quick Actions

Location

Regulations

Catch & Release: All fish must be immediately released. Handle with care using barbless hooks.

Artificial Lures Only: No natural bait permitted. Flies, lures, and artificial attractants only.

Trip Planning

Best fishing typically occurs during spring and fall. Check water conditions before heading out.

See what insects are emerging on Lackawanna River's hatch forecast — including active hatches, water temperatures, and which patterns to have in your box this month.