Fishing in the Shenango River Watershed

Our watershed offers an array of game fish species in miles of flowing river and streams and thousands of acres of impounded water in the Pymatuning and Shenango Reservoirs.

As you may know, these waters are found in two states, Ohio and Pennsylvania. Watersheds do not understand state lines; they follow the rules of geology and nature. Those who manage our fisheries, the Ohio Division of Wildlife and the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) do live by state lines. Accordingly, to enjoy full access to the Shenango River Watershed you will need to be licensed in both states, and most likely one license will be at non-resident rates. This is important to be aware of, but there are also some other considerations and special regulated waters to note.

The Pymatuning Reservoir - This is a lake created by the impoundment of the Shenango River with responsibility shared by both OH and PA. The state line runs through it. Pymatuning is one place in the watershed where you can technically fish two states with a license from only one. A fishing license from either state is valid when fishing from a boat on Pymatuning. The rules, seasons, sizes, and limits are agreed upon by both states and differ somewhat from ordinary inland waters in either state. Be sure to consult the special fishing regulations for Pymatuning Reservoir. One other special feature of Pymatuning is the water upstream of the Linesville spillway. This part of the lake is considered nursery waters and no fishing is permitted. If operating a boat on Pymatuning, there is a 20 horsepower maximum limit. This is recently increased from a 10 horsepower limit in place for many years.

Downstream just a bit from Pymatuning, the Shenango Reservoir is part of PA’s Big Bass Program, a program meant to promote a bigger number of big bass. As such, the minimum size is increased and the daily limit is reduced for largemouth and smallmouth bass.

Numerous PA streams in the watershed are designated as Regulated Trout Waters. Most of these fall under the Approved Trout Waters designation. The Neshannock Creek and Cool Spring Creek each boast a section designated as Delayed Harvest Artificial Lures Only. A listing of the streams included, and the special regulations that apply, is printed in the PFBC summary of regulations. This part is not special to only the Shenango River Watershed (in PA), but you will need a PA trout stamp to use these waters for trout fishing.

That still leaves a lot of water in the watershed that is governed by the regular rules.

Here’s the disclaimer: Don’t take our word for it, always consult the regulations from the state you’re fishing in, but be aware of the special places. And don’t forget, if you want try out some new water or just experience angling for the first time, both OH and PA offer two fish for free days. PA: May 30 and September 5, 2011, OH: May 7 and May 8, 2011. Good Fishing in 2011!