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The boat was clean, comfortable, and fully equipped with everything we needed for a successful day on the water. Jamie was friendly, professional, and patient, especially when it came to helping everyone reel in their catch. He took the time to explain techniques and gave tips to both beginners and seasoned anglers alike.
We had great success with our catches, and it was a memorable day from start to finish. Whether youβre a seasoned fisherman or just looking for a fun day out on the water, I highly recommend booking a trip with Worth The Catch Fishing Charters!
The boat was clean, comfortable, and fully equipped with everything we needed for a successful day on the water. Jamie was friendly, professional, and patient, especially when it came to helping everyone reel in their catch. He took the time to explain techniques and gave tips to both beginners and seasoned anglers alike.
We had great success with our catches, and it was a memorable day from start to finish. Whether youβre a seasoned fisherman or just looking for a fun day out on the water, I highly recommend booking a trip with Worth The Catch Fishing Charters!
Nat and I both had our PB smallmouth on lures and a great father-daughter dance on the water.
Iβd highly recommend Jonathan, who grew up in Erie and whoβs first language is bass - just like mine. When he hands me a rod with an Architect reelβ¦thatβs catering to your clients!!!
#ioutdoor #bassonline.com #ErieFishing
Nat and I both had our PB smallmouth on lures and a great father-daughter dance on the water.
Iβd highly recommend Jonathan, who grew up in Erie and whoβs first language is bass - just like mine. When he hands me a rod with an Architect reelβ¦thatβs catering to your clients!!!
#ioutdoor #bassonline.com #ErieFishing
My last trip will forever be know as rollcoater smallmouth fishing the ledge
My last trip will forever be know as rollcoater smallmouth fishing the ledge
Great fun I decided to make one more trip to Erie P.A. to fish with my fav. Captian Mark Rose. It was a beautiful late Nov. day. Mark was taking us out for the giant smallmouth that are feeding up. I have been fishing with Capt. Mark for years and he never disapoints me. Always puts me on fish . This day was a little diffferent ,while we were catching some nice smallmouth Mark said there are some big Lake Trout close by that we could try to catch. It was a fish I had not caught in all my yrs. so we said lets go. Well it was a blast . Thanks Capt for another great day of fishing. 
Great fun I decided to make one more trip to Erie P.A. to fish with my fav. Captian Mark Rose. It was a beautiful late Nov. day. Mark was taking us out for the giant smallmouth that are feeding up. I have been fishing with Capt. Mark for years and he never disapoints me. Always puts me on fish . This day was a little diffferent ,while we were catching some nice smallmouth Mark said there are some big Lake Trout close by that we could try to catch. It was a fish I had not caught in all my yrs. so we said lets go. Well it was a blast . Thanks Capt for another great day of fishing. 
Lake Erie Bronze backs My fall fishing trip this yr was a cold windy day on lake Erie. Capt Mark Rose with his new Ranger boat was putting us on fish as usual. The fishing was a little slow but they were there just not real hungry. We did manage some nice fish even though the conditions were tough. Mark was the professional as always and gave us a greta day on the lake to finish the seson. If you come to Erie and need a guide there is only 1 guy by far that I would go with. Ive been going with mark a couple times a year for the last 5 yrs. and always catch nice smallys which is my goal. Thanks Mark 
Caught fish all day in bad weather.
Caught fish all day in bad weather.
beautiful boat and great top of the line equipment. Put us on fish on a windy day. Great fisherman with tons of knowledge. Top of the line.
beautiful boat and great top of the line equipment. Put us on fish on a windy day. Great fisherman with tons of knowledge. Top of the line.
Based on Markβs recommendation, we will be back in the fall to try for more smallmouth.
Based on Markβs recommendation, we will be back in the fall to try for more smallmouth.
My daughter and I had a great day, caught multiple species of fish , enjoyed incredible weather (mid August) and the boat Mark uses is unbelievable!
Watching your 11 year old daughter struggling to bring in 27" walleye is a great day!
My daughter and I had a great day, caught multiple species of fish , enjoyed incredible weather (mid August) and the boat Mark uses is unbelievable!
Watching your 11 year old daughter struggling to bring in 27" walleye is a great day!
Thanks again,
Mark & Michelle Jackson
North Carolina
Thanks again,
Mark & Michelle Jackson
North Carolina
First of all, we had the privilege of being some of his first guests in his brand new high tech Ranger multi species boat that he just got a few days ago. You have to see it to believe how nice it is. (not to mention all of his top of the line rods&reels and baits).
With his never say quit attitude, I can only imagine what it will be like fishing with him in a day or two once his boat is fully broken in.
The conditions were very challenging with the rain and nonstop howling wind that never quit. But neither did he and we ended up having a trip that we will never forget! David caught his PB SMB at 4.2 and we caught several others not far behind, not to mention all of the large mouths over 3. A lot on top water too!
We were lucky enough to have a window when the wind quit blowing and Mark had us in fish, lots of them, in no time.
Thanks Mark. Canβt wait til next time.
Paul Olive
First of all, we had the privilege of being some of his first guests in his brand new high tech Ranger multi species boat that he just got a few days ago. You have to see it to believe how nice it is. (not to mention all of his top of the line rods&reels and baits).
With his never say quit attitude, I can only imagine what it will be like fishing with him in a day or two once his boat is fully broken in.
The conditions were very challenging with the rain and nonstop howling wind that never quit. But neither did he and we ended up having a trip that we will never forget! David caught his PB SMB at 4.2 and we caught several others not far behind, not to mention all of the large mouths over 3. A lot on top water too!
We were lucky enough to have a window when the wind quit blowing and Mark had us in fish, lots of them, in no time.
Thanks Mark. Canβt wait til next time.
Paul Olive
Professional and friendly and I will be there again for fall run
Professional and friendly and I will be there again for fall run
Several over 5lbs. Mark is a great guide and has become a friend ! Never had a guy work any harder and give your moneyβs worth. The last day it was 31degrees 18-25 mph winds and sleeting like crazy!
And we smacked them !! Only boat on the water !
That shows Marks dedication and desire to catch fish .
Several over 5lbs. Mark is a great guide and has become a friend ! Never had a guy work any harder and give your moneyβs worth. The last day it was 31degrees 18-25 mph winds and sleeting like crazy!
And we smacked them !! Only boat on the water !
That shows Marks dedication and desire to catch fish .
Mark is a true pro.... would certainly recommend Mark Rose if you are interested in having a memorable experience on Lake Erie catching smallmouth bass.
Mark is a true pro.... would certainly recommend Mark Rose if you are interested in having a memorable experience on Lake Erie catching smallmouth bass.
Thanks again Mark.
Thanks again Mark.
Great trip in a tough time of year Despite a tough time of year on Lake Erie, Capt. Rose kept us on fish and helped us have great days. Largemouth, pike, smallmouth, scaly cat (and even an occasional drum)... they all fell to our group of four. Thanks Mark for a great experience and we look forward to our next chance to catch some of those huge Lake Erie smallmouth! 
I had a fantastic time fishing with Captain Mark Rose. His skill and knowledge and his first class equipment made it a great experience for me. I am a return client and we'll definitely be fishing with him again soon. This was the best fishing I have ever done in my life in my home state of Pennsylvania! Thanks Captain Mark!!!
Plan B with Captain Mark Rose I booked 2 days of Lake Erie smallmouth fishing with Caption Mark Rose. The weather however was very windy out of the north and Lake Erie was to rough to fish, but not to worry. Caption Mark had plan B ready to go. We headed south to an inland lake and had two awesome days of smallmouth fising. I caught 35 smallies in two 4 hour trips. It doesnt get better than that. I have fished with Caption Mark for 3 years now and i am always amazed at his ability to find smallies and provide awesome fishing trips. I highly recommend Caption Mark to anyone who wants to experiance smallmouth fising at its best. 
Smallmouth Charters with Captain Mark Rose My adult son & I, both experienced Lake Erie fishermen, just completed two successful Presque Isle smallmouth charters with Captain Mark Rose. We caught quality smallies both days in tough conditions with several over 5 lbs. and one 6 pounder.Captain Mark consistently located the smallies and willingly shared his smallmouth fishing expertise with my son & I. His focus is definitely on helping you catch smallmouth bass while having a good time. Heβs good at it too!
In summary, we had a great time fishing with Captain Mark Rose and picked up some valuable smallmouth fishing tips from a pro.
WE WILL BE BACK!

Captain Mark consistently located the smallies and willingly shared his smallmouth fishing expertise with my son & I. His focus is definitely on helping you catch smallmouth bass while having a good time. Heβs good at it too!
In summary, we had a great time fishing with Captain Mark Rose and picked up some valuable smallmouth fishing tips from a pro.
WE WILL BE BACK!
Fishing Erie Capt Mark took us out to Lake Erie. The wind was rough so we couldn't go to the big lake. We instead fished the bay. Capt Mark brought live crawfish for bait. It worked out great. We caught a couple of smallmouth, several largemouth, a drum, and a walleye. The boat was good and Capt Mark was very helpful. The fishing gear was Top of the Line! We are hoping for a trip to Florida soon, 
Excellent Trip! DO IT!!! Capt Tom Goodrich (Bunja) was awesome!! Such a nice guy!! Talked to my boys and educated them about everything they were doing. He even got excited with them when they were catching their fish! He talked about the lake and the area. Very informative. Checked regular updates regarding the lake condition to determine when and where was best to fish.Best part was he felt like an old friend.
We will definitely request him the next time we book a charter! Highly recommend Capt Tom!
Thank you for a great day!

Best part was he felt like an old friend.
We will definitely request him the next time we book a charter! Highly recommend Capt Tom!
Thank you for a great day!
Captain Mark Rose put our group of 8 on the smallies we caught over 200 fish in two days and all quality fish we will be back next year this was an experience of a life time and Captain Mark Rose and his other Captains made it so much fun its like fishing with friends that bait you hook lol GREAT GROUP OF GUYS!
Awesome Lake Erie smallmouth fishing with Capt Mark Rose Another fantastic day of Lake Erie Smallmouth bass fishing with Capt Mark Rose. The weather was windy and rainy but Mark still put us in the fish. I have been smallmouth fishing on Lake Erie with Mark 3 times now in the spring and fall and every time he knows exactly where and how to catch huge smallmouth bass. I look forward to booking another trip next spring. 
Great fishing! We had really good day of fishing. The weather was kinda miserable it was raining and blowing most of the day. But even with weather conditions as they were Mark was able to put us on some really big smallies and some good numbers. I will definitely be using Mark some more next year. 
Better than expected We thought going in the dog days of summer would not be productive for smallmouth. Captain Mark prove that wrong! We caught several smallmouth over 3 pounds and a personal best of nearly 6 pounds. To top it off we got a half a dozen walleye that will eat very well. 
Mark Rose is the best! Mark is like a blood hound when it comes to finding fish. Everyone knows that July on Lake Erie can be very unpredictable, for small mouth but Mark put us right on the fish. CanΓ’ΒΒt wait to meet up with him in Florida. WeΓ’ΒΒll probably do a day in the swamp for large mouth and a day after parrot bass. This is the fourth time we used Mark Rose. Very serious but we have fun and laugh. My wife loves him very patient. 
Lake Erie Smallmouth Fishing Capt. Mark Rose with Bass Online Fishing Guides was a great guide. His knowledge of the lake and fish habitat was spot on. It took us a few hours to find the smallmouth we were looking for but we had a blast once we found them. I would highly recommend Mark Rose to any of my friends and family for their next fishing trip. 
Fish On! What a great fishing trip! Despite weather that was not perfect, we landed some fine smallies. We were told that if anyone could find them, it was Mark Rose and sure enough, he proved to be an excellent guide. Three different spots with multiple strategies resulted in a fun afternoon of fishing! 
Smallmouth Fishing with Capt. George Mro June 3, 2019, spent 6 hours on Presque Isle with George Mro smallie fishing. I've been out on over 50 charters in my life, this is a top 2, ever. He is a first class fisherman, excellent Capt., and a good guy. My Son and I had a blast, caught probably 25-30 smallmouth bass and had a fantastic day. I will go out again in the Fall. Highly recommend, all charters should think and act like Capt. George, first rate in all ways. 
Captain Mark Rose was exceptional We went out on a cold rainy day just before Independence Day. Caught one Small Mouth Bass but because the weather was so miserable, Captain Mark Rose decided to take us out again the next day. We caught 6 magnificent ones the second day. Mark was very kind, patient, knowledgeable and professional and we enjoyed both trips for the price of one. I'd highly recommend Captain Mark. Martin and Judy Charney Toronto. 
Lake Erie smallmouth Erie PA It was very easy and convenient to book the trip online. The booking and payment process was the best I've ever used for a guided fishing trip. Captain Mark Rose worked as hard as he could to put us on smallmouth. He is the first guide I have ever had that did not fish while guiding because he is committed to give his clients the best trip possible. The only reason I don't give a perfect rating is because the fish weren't in a feeding mood but that is not a reflection on Mark's skill and knowledge. 
Erie Fishing with George! I took my son and his friend fishing on Lake Erie with Capt. George for the second time this year! CanΓ’ΒΒt George is without a doubt the BEST ERIE GUIDE!!! The conditions this time were very bad for fishing and we still landed over 50 small mouth bass - nice bass!!! This was our third trip with George and our worse one and we caught over 100 fish in two days - various species. He knows his fishing, works hard, takes care of the boys and his the best in Erie! Thanks George!!! 
Fishing adventure Would like to start with had a great time.. Captain Mark Rose was an excellent charter.. anyone wanting to do smallmouth bass fishing around the Presque Isle Bay Area I would recommend Mark Rose best guy will guarantee you a great day.. Thanks to Mark Rose definitely made our Lake Erie experience something to remember. 
Captain Mark Rose I have went out with Captain Mark Rose every year for the last 5 years, and no matter what the weather conditions, he figures out a way to find the big smallmouth and get them in the boat. Windy conditions this year kept us from going where he wanted, but he still found big smallmouth for us in the wind protected bay. I have caught my personal best smallmouth (5 lb. 11 oz.) with Mark and we continue to work on getting that 6+ lb. I am already looking forward to my next trip with Captain Mark Rose! 
Best fishing experience of my life Captain Mark Rose put us right on em and we smashed so many giants. 4-5lbers and we were throwing 3lbers back like they were dinks! Truly a blessed trip, I for sure wanna go back and would recommend going out with Captain Mark Rose!
Lake Erie Small Mouth Fishing Mark Rose captained our unbelievable trip. If you are looking to catch fish and not just fish, this is the trip to take. We caught 50-60 bass, on a six hour trip with Mark. He provides great guiding, top notch equipment and a great, fun experience!
Mark Rose I recently booked a family trip for my dad, brother and myself with Mark Rose on lake erie 5-12-18. We booked way and advance and were dealt some bad weather on the day of the trip. We woke up to 40 degree temperatures and severe storms closing in. An hour into our day we got chased off the lake by lightning. Mark was great about it and from the safety of shore we decided to wait it out. After some early lunch and killing time in a local sporting goods store, we got back on the water in the early afternoon and he put us on the fish. All together we caught 40 small mouth all 3 to 5 pounds. The biggest, and my dads personal best, was 5 pounds 9 ounces. What started out as a bad dream ended up as a great day of fishing. Id like to thank Mark for sticking it out through the storm and putting us on some great fish. If you looking for a great lake erie small mouth trip call Mark Rose. Justin. 
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Top Target Species on Lake Erie Pa
Frequently Asked Questions about Lake Erie Pa
What fish is Lake Erie in Pennsylvania best known for?
Where can I launch a boat on Pennsylvaniaβs Lake Erie?
When is the best time to fish Lake Erie in Pennsylvania?
Do I need a Pennsylvania Lake Erie permit?
Are guided trips available on Pennsylvaniaβs Lake Erie?
Fishing Lake Erie Pa
Pennsylvaniaβs Lake Erie shoreline is compact, but the Erie and Presque Isle region puts anglers close to open-lake structure, protected bay water and productive tributaries. Smallmouth bass, walleye, yellow perch and steelhead create distinct fishing seasons, while access from Erie and Fairview keeps the fishery practical for both guided trips and independent anglers.
This page focuses on Lake Erie in Pennsylvania. For a comparison of all four U.S. states, visit the Lake Erie fishing overview. Anglers departing elsewhere should use the matching New York, Ohio or Michigan page so regulations and access details stay tied to the correct jurisdiction.
Pennsylvania Lake Erie Fishing Overview
The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission identifies Lake Erie, Presque Isle Bay and the tributaries as an unusually diverse fishery and reports that anglers catch about 1.5 million fish across those waters in an average year. The agency highlights bass, walleye, yellow perch, crappie and bluegill, along with a steelhead fishery that draws anglers to the Erie tributaries during cooler months.
The region offers three very different settings. Open Lake Erie favors mobile searches over reefs, rock, ledges and suspended forage. Presque Isle Bay provides protected water and seasonal opportunities for bass, panfish and northern pike. Tributaries such as Walnut Creek and Elk Creek become important when steelhead move in from the lake.
Smallmouth Bass Fishing
Smallmouth bass are a primary Pennsylvania target. Spring warming draws fish toward shallower rock, points and transition areas. As summer develops, many bass shift toward deeper ledges, isolated rock and offshore structure, then feed more aggressively again as water cools in fall.
Drop-shot rigs, tubes, Ned rigs, swimbaits, jerkbaits and football-style jigs all have a role. Electronics help identify subtle depth changes and hard-bottom areas that cannot be seen from the surface. Wind direction, water clarity and current can change which side of a structure is productive, so a flexible search is more reliable than returning to one waypoint regardless of conditions.
Walleye and Yellow Perch
Walleye commonly spread through Pennsylvania water as the season progresses. Trolling crankbaits, spoons and crawler harnesses at controlled depths is an efficient way to cover open water, while nearshore and structure-oriented presentations can be productive when fish concentrate.
Yellow perch remain part of the Lake Erie tradition, although school location and fishing quality vary with year class, forage and season. The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission set the 2026 daily limits at six walleye and 30 yellow perch for Lake Erie, with a 15-inch minimum size for walleye. These rules can change through annual management, so confirm the current limits before every trip.
Steelhead and Lake Trout
Steelhead are migratory rainbow trout that use Pennsylvaniaβs Lake Erie tributaries during cooler periods. Rain, stream flow, water temperature and lake conditions strongly affect timing. Anglers should verify public access and any water-specific rules before fishing a tributary because easements and special regulations vary by location.
Lake trout may also be encountered in deeper, colder water. They are a secondary target compared with smallmouth and walleye, but they add another option during suitable seasonal conditions. Tackle, depth and presentation should be matched to the target species rather than treating every open-water mark the same.
Presque Isle Bay and Public Access
Presque Isle State Park lists four launching areas: Vista, Niagara, West Pier and Lagoon. West Pier is the largest and is recommended by the park for larger watercraft, while the other launches serve smaller or medium-sized boats. Lake-level fluctuations can affect launch procedures, so check current conditions before towing to a ramp.
Walnut Creek Marina at 241 Manchester Road in Fairview is another major access point. The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission lists six concrete motorboat ramps, a hand-carry ramp, trailer parking, a fish-cleaning station and seasonal marina services. Launch facilities are available year-round, subject to conditions and operational notices.
Best Seasons and Techniques
Spring: Smallmouth move toward shallower rock and transitions, while walleye patterns develop as water warms. Tributary steelhead may still be available early in the season.
Summer: Trolling is a leading walleye approach, and smallmouth commonly relate to deeper offshore structure. Calm-looking mornings can still turn rough, so weather monitoring remains essential.
Fall: Cooling water can improve smallmouth activity and renew steelhead movement in the tributaries. Open-lake weather windows become less predictable.
Winter: Tributary fishing may continue when flows and access are suitable, but ice, cold-water exposure and rapidly changing conditions demand conservative planning.
Weather and Great Lakes Safety
Lake Erie can build steep waves quickly, especially when wind opposes current or pushes across a long stretch of open water. Review the National Weather Service forecast for Pennsylvania nearshore waters, monitor conditions while on the water and carry the safety equipment required for the vessel and season.
A protected bay does not guarantee safe conditions on the open lake. The final launch site and fishing area should be chosen after reviewing wind direction, wave forecasts, visibility and the boatβs capabilities.
Licenses, Permits and Regulations
Anglers in Pennsylvania waters must follow current Pennsylvania fishing rules. Lake Erie, Presque Isle Bay and applicable tributaries may require a Lake Erie Permit or a qualifying combination permit in addition to the appropriate fishing license. Review the current license and permit information and the current regulations before fishing.
State lines matter on Lake Erie. A Pennsylvania license and permit do not automatically cover fishing in Ohio, New York, Michigan or Ontario waters. Confirm your location and the rules for every jurisdiction your trip may enter.
Planning a Guided Trip
A local captain can shorten the learning curve on a large, condition-driven fishery. Guided trips may focus on smallmouth bass, walleye or a multi-species plan depending on season, weather and current availability. Confirm the departure point, target species, included tackle, license requirements and weather policy when booking.
Browse Lake Erie fishing guides for current trip options. The most useful plan is the one matched to Pennsylvania water, the dayβs conditions and the experience level of the group.
Lake Erie Pa Fishing Calendar
| Species | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Smallmouth Bass | π₯ Hot | π₯ Hot | π₯ Hot | π₯ Hot | ||||||||
| Walleye | π₯ Hot | π₯ Hot | π₯ Hot | π₯ Hot | π₯ Hot | |||||||
| Rainbow Trout | π₯ Hot | π₯ Hot | π₯ Hot | π₯ Hot | π₯ Hot | π₯ Hot | π₯ Hot | |||||
| Lake Trout | β Good | β Good | β Good | |||||||||
| Largemouth Bass | β Good | β Good | β Good | β Good |
Rainbow Trout
Rainbow Trout
Rainbow Trout
Rainbow Trout
Lake Trout
Walleye
Largemouth Bass
Walleye
Largemouth Bass
Smallmouth Bass
Rainbow Trout
Rainbow Trout
Rainbow Trout
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