Franklin Lake near Republic: Fishing Spots, Seasons and Access

• Overview

  Franklin Lake is set in Fayette County, Pennsylvania. The ground around here is rolling hill. At 7 acres it is the sort of place you fish for an evening rather than a day. It is a small entry by Fayette County standards. The closest town, Republic, is 3.9 miles away. Pittsburgh sits 34 miles out, and it is the nearest city worth the name. A county line runs close by, so local bylaws can differ within a short drive.

• Where to Fish on Franklin Lake

  No published figure covers depth, so learn it as you fish. The old creek line under the surface is the feature worth finding. The arms fish better than the open middle whenever the water is up. Fayette County records list brook trout, brown trout, common carp and bluegill among the fish reported. County records show what lives in the area; the local agency holds the water-by-water list. On Franklin Lake that means starting tight and working out.

• Seasonal Patterns

  The year swings from about 28°F in January to roughly 72°F in July. Whether it freezes depends on the year. Hard water here is never dependable, so check for yourself before stepping out. The cooler months are the comfortable ones to fish here. Time your trip to Franklin Lake by conditions rather than dates.

• Tackle & Baits

  The rules here are undocumented as far as public sources go. Parking within half a mile means no long carry with tackle. A small crankbait along the drop and a worm in the thick stuff cover the bass. Look for a notice board at the entrance. Rules for boats are stricter than rules for the bank in many places. Patsys Lake sits 2 miles off and takes the overflow. For Franklin Lake, the notice at the access point is the final word.