Pennsylvania Lakes - Opossum Lake

Opossum Lake

December 2010 Opossum Lake Update
Work continues on repairing a leaking spillway at Opossum Lake. In fall 2008, the lake was drained for safe access to the spillway. Performance Construction Services, Inc. was awarded the contract with a $3.3 million bid in September 2010. Performance Construction Services began work on the spillway in November 2010. The spillway work is expected to be completed in March 2012. Opossum Lake is anticipated to be at full pool in fall 2012, depending on rainfall.

Read the Carlisle Sentinel’s 12/20/10 article (http://www.cumberlink.com/news/local/article_b9e56708-0be5-11e0-849b-001cc4c002e0.html) about the project.

Located in Cumberland County, Opossum Lake is a 59-acre lake owned by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and managed by the Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) for recreational purposes.

FISHING

Opossum is managed as a Big Bass Lake and is part of the Select Trout-Stocked Lake Program. All other species of fish are managed under Commonwealth Inland Water regulations.

Fish habitat structures have been placed in the lake over the years as part of the Commission's Cooperative Fish Habitat Improvement Program.

BOATING

Boating is limited to boats powered by electric motors and un-powered boats. There are 3 access points and associated parking facilities, 1 has a surfaced launch ramp.

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).

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