Conemaugh River Lake
Watercraft sports are permitted on the lake, but at the present time Conemaugh has no launching ramps into the lake. Therefore, access is limited to mostly canoes and car-top boats.
Stiffer environmental regulations on the Conemaugh River have resulted in improved fishing for the outdoor recreationist. Previously, discharges from inactive coal mines caused a decline in water quality. The reservoir has substantially improved, maintaining a growing fish population.
Divers should stop at the Resource Manager's or Park Office on the day of dive to make park rangers aware of dive plans.
Please Note:
- Boat Traffic with unlimited horsepower, MUST SHOW DIVE FLAG
What To See
Until recently, reduced water quality from acid mine drainage limited the sport fishery at Conemaugh River Lake. However, within the last ten years, water quality has improved noticeably, particularly in tributary bays. Species include largemouth bass, northern pike, bluegill, perch, and bullhead.
In the outflow area, fishing is excellent for yellow perch (especially in the spring), and bullhead. An indication of the extent of water quality improvement over the last ten years is the diversity of fish in the tailwaters. In 1986, only 3 species were observed, while in 1996, 26 species were observed.
The average depth of the lake is about 7 feet and the maximum depth is about 20 feet.
From Pittsburgh
Address: RD #2, Box 131, Saltsburg, PA 15681-9302. Phone: (724) 639-9013. Daily Lake Information: (724) 639-3785.
