The Quemahoning Reservoir, located in Conemaugh, Jenner and Quemahoning Townships in Somerset County as well as Hinckston Run Reservoir, Wilmore Reservoir, and South Fork and Border Dams were publicly acquired in 2000 thanks to the efforts initiated by SCRIP and local sportsmen and conservation organizations. The Quemahoning is the largest of the reservoirs with 899 acres of water surface and 12 miles of shoreline. The Quemahoning is owned and operated by the Cambria Somerset Authority and the fishery is managed by the PFBC. The angling opportunities at the reservoir are both diverse and challenging. The reservoir is home to largemouth and smallmouth bass, walleye, pike, trout, carp and a variety of panfish. The reservoir is managed under the PFBC Big Bass and Panfish Enhancement Regulations. Fishing can be done from the shoreline as well as from non-gasoline powered boats. The primary boat launch is located at the family recreation park area and there are several car-top boat launches and parking lots scattered around the lake.
The reservoir has benefited from the water quality improvements implemented in the Quemahoning Creek watershed that have significantly reduced the AMD pollution entering the reservoir, which has increased the recreational angling opportunities. In addition, through the sponsorship of the Somerset Conservation District, the PFBC’s Bureau of Habitat Management Lake Division has been able to build and place numerous habitat enhancement structures in the reservoir with the assistance of local sportsmen volunteers. The combination of these two initiatives is already paying dividends in terms of the quantity and quality of the fishery available.
In addition to fishing, other recreational opportunities at the reservoir include kayaking and boating, hunting, hiking trails, mountain biking and swimming. Campsites, pavilions and sanitary facilities are also available at the Quemahoning Family Recreational Park. Information on rates and fees for the use of these facilities can be obtained by calling 814-233-9512 or 814-629-9744. Additional information can also be obtained on the web at www.cambriasomersetwater.com.