Harveys Lake Trout Bass Walleye Trip Dry Creek

Harvey's Lake Half-Day Fishing with Captain Chris

Harvey's Lake sits pretty in northeastern Pennsylvania, and if you're looking for a solid half-day fishing trip that won't break the bank, Captain Christopher's got you covered. This isn't some fancy resort operation – it's honest-to-goodness local guiding on one of PA's cleanest lakes. You'll be targeting three of the lake's best species: brown trout, smallmouth bass, and walleye. The boat holds up to four folks, but honestly, two anglers get the best experience with plenty of elbow room and personalized attention from Chris. Whether you're an early bird hitting the water at 6 AM or prefer a more civilized 8 AM start, there's also that sweet 4 PM afternoon slot if you want to fish the evening bite.

What to Expect on the Water

Harvey's Lake stretches about 620 acres and runs deep – we're talking 110 feet in some spots. Captain Chris knows every contour, drop-off, and structure that holds fish. The season runs April through October, which gives you plenty of flexibility to plan around Pennsylvania's unpredictable weather. Spring brings hungry trout coming out of winter, summer heats up the smallmouth action, and fall walleye fishing can be absolutely lights-out. Chris provides everything you need gear-wise: quality rods, reels, and a tackle box full of proven lures. You just need to show up with your Pennsylvania fishing license (non-negotiable – get it sorted before you arrive), some water to stay hydrated, sunglasses, and non-spray sunscreen. The captain's cool with moderate drinking, but keep the glass bottles and hard stuff at home. This is a family-friendly operation that welcomes everyone from kids catching their first fish to experienced anglers wanting to learn new water.

Trolling and Drifting Techniques

Chris runs a mix of trolling and drifting depending on what the fish are telling him. Trolling lets you cover serious water – perfect for finding active schools of walleye or trout cruising the thermoclines. You'll pull everything from crankbaits to spoons, adjusting speed and depth until you find the magic combination. The drift fishing is where things get interesting for bass. Chris knows exactly where to position the boat so you're working jigs and soft plastics through rocky structure and weed edges where smallmouth love to ambush baitfish. Don't worry if you've never done either technique – Chris is a patient teacher who'll have you feeling confident within the first hour. The electronics on board help locate fish and structure, but it's Chris's local knowledge that really makes the difference. He's been working these waters long enough to read the subtle signs that separate good days from great ones.

Top Catches This Season

Brown trout are the lake's crown jewel, and Harvey's Lake consistently produces some beautiful fish. These aren't your typical 10-inch stockers – we're talking about fish that have been feeding on the lake's abundant baitfish for years. They're smart, strong, and absolutely gorgeous with those distinctive spots and orange fins. Most browns run 14 to 18 inches, but don't be surprised if you hook into something pushing 20 inches or better. They're most active during cooler months and early morning trips, which is why that 6 AM start time is pure gold for trout hunters. Smallmouth bass are the lake's scrappiest fighters, and Harvey's Lake grows them thick and healthy. These bronze-backed beauties average 12 to 15 inches, with plenty of chunky 2 to 3-pounders mixed in. They love the lake's rocky structure and are absolute dynamite on light tackle. Summer and early fall are prime time for smallies, especially around the deeper rock piles and points. Walleye might be the most underrated species in the lake. These golden-eyed predators are excellent table fare and provide steady action once you find them. Harvey's Lake walleye typically run 14 to 20 inches, with the occasional monster pushing the 6-pound mark. They're most active during low-light periods, making those early morning and late afternoon trips perfect timing.

Time to Book Your Spot

Half-day trips are perfect for families, first-time visitors, or anyone wanting a taste of Harvey's Lake without committing to a full day. The price point is reasonable, Captain Chris knows his stuff, and you're fishing some of the cleanest water in Pennsylvania. The lake's proximity to Wilkes-Barre and Scranton makes it an easy drive for most folks in the region, but the fishing quality rivals much more remote destinations. Seasonal availability from April through October means you can plan trips around school schedules, work calendars, or just when the fishing bug bites. Chris runs a professional operation with quality gear and a genuine passion for putting his clients on fish. Whether you're chasing your first brown trout, want to introduce kids to fishing, or just need a relaxing morning on beautiful water, this trip delivers solid value. Don't sleep on booking early for prime dates – word gets around about good guides, and Chris's calendar fills up with repeat customers and referrals from happy anglers.