FAQ
Big Brown Fish & Pay Lakes offers three beautiful ponds; one for bass and two for trout. It is continuously stocked from our own off-site hatchery. It’s a quick and convenient drive from Philly, New York, and New Jersey!
Find us at 2668 Route 115 Effort, PA 18330
- No License or Experience Necessary
- Pole Rental
- Bait & Tackle
- Trout & Bass Fishing
- Fish Cleaning Service
Find us at 2668 Route 115, Effort, PA 18330
A “pay lake” is a privately owned pond or lake that is stocked for people to go fishing in. Customers pay for the fish they catch, hence: “pay lake”.
All of our trout come from our own hatchery, where we raise them from egg to catchable sizes. Our bass come from our farm and also from Hicklings Fish Farm in New York state.
That depends on three main factors; skill level, weather, and water conditions. Experienced fishermen will most likely catch fish very quickly here. Beginners will usually take longer.
The trout bite quicker when it is cool out, and the water is cool. Spring temperatures favor trout. Bass bite quicker as the weather gets warmer, but also more in the morning and evening hours.
Most bass are 12-16 inches (1-3 lbs). Trout average between 13-16 inches (1-2 lbs). We typically stock a few trout from 16 to 24 inches (2-8 lbs) throughout the year.
We care for our fish 24/7, 365 by constantly monitoring the water quality and feeding high quality feed, we keep our fish healthy.
Yes! Big Brown Fish & Pay Lakes is perfect for beginners. Our staff can give you a crash course in baiting your hook and casting, and you will be on your way in no time. Typically, even beginners have no problem reeling in a few.
If you ask this question to 30 different people, you will likely get 30 different answers. Worms and a bobber are the typical set-up here, and on most days anglers find success. On hot days lures that move and mimic prey can work better.
We are set up as more of a day trip than a multi-day fishing trip. As such we do not offer any bulk or weekly passes. If you do wish to fish more than one day you are more than welcome to.
Equipment is rented for the full day, from purchase until closing time.
Big Brown is designed for families. We work to maintain a peaceful, pleasant, and fun atmospheres that can be enjoyed by all ages. It’s a great place for young kids to catch their first fish!
We believe the highest quality of fish, consistent stocking, a friendly staff, and well maintained grounds help to make a great quality pay lake. That is what we strive to do.
1st Privately Licensed Pennsylvania Trout Farm
Historic hatchery and fishing preserve. Fee fishing for trout and bass, nestled in the beautiful Paradise Valley in the Poconos
23 Hatchery Drive, Cresco, PA 18326 570-629-0427 info@paradisetrout.com