Check which species have trophy potential in Bates Lake
Bates Lake fishing reports
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When are Largemouth Bass biting on Bates Lake?
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Fishing regulations at Bates Lake, PA
Disclaimer: Always check local fishing regulations, water access rights and land ownership before fishing, regardless of any catches logged in that area by the Fishbrain community. Fishbrain has mapped millions of acres of government-owned land across the USA to help you identify potential fishing access, but you are responsible for ensuring compliance with all legal requirements.
Fishing regulations in Pennsylvania can change throughout the year. Make sure to check this page before fishing for the most up to date rules and regulations for the current season. Local regulations govern when you can fish, the max size of the fish you can keep, how many fish you can keep, and more.
Below you will see fishing regulations for catching Largemouth bass as of April 29th, 2026. To view regulations for a different fish species, please click on your preferred species in the drop-down.
Seasons
Bag limit
Min size
Measurement
Special gear
Aggregate
Statewide regulations are shown. During the closed season, no harvest of bass; you must immediately release any bass you catch.
- Jan 1 - Apr 12: minimum size = 15-inches; daily limit = 4 bass
- Apr 13 - Jun 7: no harvest of bass; catch and immediate release only
- Jun 8 - Sept 30: minimum size = 12-inches; daily limit = 6 bass
- Oct 1 - Dec 31: minimum size = 15-inches; daily limit = 4 bass
To see additional site-specific trout regulations, you must see Pennsylvania Bass Fishing Regulations.
Micropterus nigricans
Regulations for
FAQ about Bates Lake fishing
- Largemouth bass - 1 members reported to have caught this fish
- @BrandonFTWL reported a nice Largemouth bass.
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