Briar Crest Woods Lake in Monroe County: How and When to Fish It

• Overview

  Within Monroe County, Pennsylvania, you have Briar Crest Woods Lake. The ground around here is rolling bush. Roughly 25 acres: a morning covers one end, an afternoon the other. Compared with other Pennsylvania water on our list, it sits high. Nearest town is Towamensing Trails, 3.1 miles off. Further out sit Indian Mountain Lake (3.7 miles) and Sun Valley (4.9 miles). The line between counties passes nearby, which can change who manages the water.

• Where to Fish on Briar Crest Woods Lake

  No depth figure has reached our records, which makes a plummet useful. Built water gives depth close in, which suits a bank angler. The old creek line under the surface is the feature worth finding. Across Monroe County, recorded fish include brown trout, brook trout, bluegill, largemouth bass and chain pickerel. Records at county level tell you what is around, not what is stocked here. On Briar Crest Woods Lake the quiet end is the one worth the extra effort.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Long-term averages put July at about 67°F and January near 22°F. Winter shuts things down for a spell, then spring reopens them fast. After early April the shallows warm and the fish move up. Ice usually gives way near early April, and forms again about late December. The open run goes from the thaw to the freeze, and April through October covers most of it. On Briar Crest Woods Lake the same rules apply, with local timing.

• Tackle & Baits

  There is no clear statement anywhere on who can fish it. State Game Lands Number 129 runs up to the bank here, which usually means extra restrictions. Largemouth respond to soft plastics tight to cover; go weedless where the growth is heavy. Check whether a boat is allowed before you tow one. Access can change hands, so last year's answer may not hold. If the gate is shut, Round Pond at 1.6 miles is the nearest alternative. Nothing on Briar Crest Woods Lake should be assumed from this page alone.