If you’re looking for a unique spot to go fishing in Pennsylvania this summer, look no further than Lake Grubb in Lancaster County. The small lake is an old iron ore mine that eventually filled with pristine water. Fishermen love it because no other activities are allowed in the lake.
In the 19th century, the iron industry was thriving along the Susquehanna River, the longest river on the East Coast of the United States. It was during this time that the Grubb and Haldeman families decided to open a quarry in West Hempfield Township, located along the east bank of the river. The quarry was so successful that the pit continually expanded, with iron furnaces built near the river. The boom lasted until the early 20th century, and the iron mine closed in 1910.
Before the quarry closed, miners struck an underground spring beneath the iron pit. When the hole was deserted, it filled with crystal-clear water, forming a 13-acre lake. Lake Grubb turned into a private club in the 1930s, which was active until 1955. The nearby borough of Mountville began overseeing the property in 1955, using the lake as a water source up until 2000. It wasn’t until 2003 that the lake would reopen to the public. Now known as Lake Grubb Nature Park, a 54-acre wooded park around the lake, followed three years later. Lake Grubb has firmly established itself as a Pennsylvania gem located between Harrisburg and Philadelphia. Learn more about why this park complements fun, family-friendly outings in or around Philadelphia, as well as visits to Harrisburg’s scenic, walkable, and recreational City Island.
Enjoy fishing and hiking at Lake Grubb
Lake Grubb is now a popular fishing hole. Since no boats are allowed on this small lake, you’ll have to fish from the edge of the water. Well-placed benches at the property provide perfect spots to do so. Once you’ve found a good position, you can cast for fish like black crappie, bluegill, and largemouth bass year-round. However, largemouth bass have a strict catch-and-release policy from the second Saturday of April to the second Saturday of June. Those 16 or older must obtain a license from the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission in advance to fish here. Fishing license exemptions include “Fish For Free Days” on the final Sunday in May and July 4 every year, and Pennsylvania residents on leave from active military duty outside the state…