Lackawanna Lake drawdown: PFBC eases keep rules while DCNR works the dam

Pennsylvania DCNR is drawing down the 198-acre lake at Lackawanna State Park so it can rehab the dam on South Branch Tunkhannock Creek. Kat Bolus reported for WVIA News on Sept. 8, 2026 that the structure is a 69-foot-high, 350-foot-long embankment classified as high hazard. The job covers concrete repair and replacement, a new fiberglass access bridge, a control-tower upgrade, and spillway improvements, with completion expected by January.

Because of the tight timeline there was no fish salvage. PFBC communications director Mike Parker said the commission removed some keep rules so anglers can keep whatever they catch. A license is still required, and only legal methods still apply. Warmwater fish there — bass, catfish, and the rest — reproduce naturally. Some may move downstream or hold in remaining pools; some may perish.

Fall trout stocking for this lake was redirected to other waters. PFBC will reassess in spring if the lake is refilled. Shoreline fishing access was not restricted in the early going; safety will be assessed as needed. Land day-use at the park stays open.

Photo: Kat Bolus / WVIA News (dam at Lackawanna State Park).

This is a The Gillnet news desk summary, not a reprint.

Source: WVIA News — Lake drawdown and rehabilitation work begins at Lackawanna State Park; fishing regulations eased (Kat Bolus, Sept. 8, 2026).