Pennsylvania Lakes - Dutch Fork Lake

Dutch Fork Lake

Natural Gas & Water Access Program (NGWA Program page)

Non-surface use oil and gas agreement—Range Resources – Appalachia LLC (3.3 Mb)

ADVISORY -- Dutch Fork Lake is currently drawn down

Rebuilding Pennsylvania -- high-hazard dam information

Located in Washington County, Dutch Fork Lake is a 91-acre (normal surface area) Commonwealth-owned impoundment located approximately two miles northwest of Claysville in Donegal Township. A dam located on Dutch Fork, a tributary of Dutch Fork (Buffalo) Creek, creates the lake. The impoundment is very popular with outdoor recreation enthusiasts in southwestern Pennsylvania. It was constructed in 1959 and is currently managed by the Fish and Boat Commission for public recreation.

FISHING

The lake is part of the Early Season Trout-Stocked Waters program. Shore fishing is permitted. Dutch Fork also contains a good population of warmwater and coolwater fish species. Other than the Early Season Trout-Stocked Waters program, statewide regulations for Commonwealth Inland Waters apply for all species of fish.

BOATING

Boating at Dutch Fork Lake is limited to boats powered by electric motors and unpowered boats. One launch ramp is available along with three parking areas.

Un-powered boats may be moored at the lake in accordance with Commission property regulations. To be used at the lake, boats must be registered or have a valid launch permit (permits are issued by the Commission or PA Dept. of Conservation and Natural Resources).

BIOLOGIST REPORT -- 2004 Fish Salvage

PRIMARY FISH -- Listed alphabetically. Click on illustration for larger, or text for species information.