The weather pattern that’s causing all the rain that’s plagued northwestern Pennsylvania is also wreaking havoc on plans for fishing outings.
It’s tough to commit to take a boat onto Lake Erie when the weather could kick up at any moment. Those who are getting out have found wind-mixed cloudy water and inconsistent catches. And that same wind can make even shore fishing prospects iffy. At the North Pier, for instance, the current in the channel was reversed Tuesday and a crappie and bass bite that had been pretty good over the weekend became nonexistent.
Mike Bleech covers some of that territory in this weekend’s FishOn! fishing report for the region. Among the items worth noting: “Bass, smaller pike and bluegill, along with the occasional crappie have been hitting at Eaton Reservoir.”
Eaton, a 246-acre impoundment south of North East and a bit off Route 89, was all but empty of visitors one day earlier this week. One angler fished from the jetty, a couple in boat lazily fished and two kayakers paddled under a clearing sky.
It’s possible the holiday weekend will increase visitation. But if you’re looking for a low-pressure water with good opportunities to catch fish, Eaton Reservoir might work for you. It’s a Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission-managed property, so registration for boats is mandatory. Gas motors are not allowed. Launch ramps exist on the west and east sides of the reservoir.
If the fishing turns off, take a walk around the reservoir on a great path rife with wildlife.
