
Clarke Lake
Clarke Lake is a man-made lake located in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. The lake was created by the Safe Harbor Dam, a public works project built during the Great Depression in the 1930s. The dam was one of the electrification projects of the New Deal and was designed to harness the power of the Susquehanna River for electricity generation. The lake spans an area of 7,029 acres and is a popular destination for anglers seeking a unique and exciting fishing experience. The lake is home to several fish species, including Flathead Catfish, Channel Catfish, and Smallmouth Bass. These fish species are known to offer an exciting and challenging fishing experience for both novice and experienced anglers. Apart from fishing, Clarke Lake and the surrounding area offer visitors a range of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, camping, and wildlife watching. The lake's picturesque surroundings and serene atmosphere make it a popular destination among nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. Overall, Clarke Lake in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, is a must-visit destination for anglers seeking a unique and exciting fishing experience. Its diverse fish population and range of recreational activities make it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a memorable experience. The lake's history as a New Deal public works project also adds an interesting historical dimension to the area's significance.
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Clarke Lake
Clarke Lake is a man-made lake located in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. The lake was created by the Safe Harbor Dam, a public works project built during the Great Depression in the 1930s. The dam was one of the electrification projects of the New Deal and was designed to harness the power of the Susquehanna River for electricity generation. The lake spans an area of 7,029 acres and is a popular destination for anglers seeking a unique and exciting fishing experience. The lake is home to several fish species, including Flathead Catfish, Channel Catfish, and Smallmouth Bass. These fish species are known to offer an exciting and challenging fishing experience for both novice and experienced anglers. Apart from fishing, Clarke Lake and the surrounding area offer visitors a range of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, camping, and wildlife watching. The lake's picturesque surroundings and serene atmosphere make it a popular destination among nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. Overall, Clarke Lake in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, is a must-visit destination for anglers seeking a unique and exciting fishing experience. Its diverse fish population and range of recreational activities make it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a memorable experience. The lake's history as a New Deal public works project also adds an interesting historical dimension to the area's significance.
Read more detailsCurrent Conditions
Water Temperature
Latest Water Temperature Data: Current water temperature for Clarke Lake is 70° Fahrenheit - providing real-time thermal conditions for fishing, swimming, and water recreation planning.
Current Snapshot
Forecast: Saturday, Jul 12
PartlyCloudy
Hourly Insights
Temperature
Precipitation
Wind
Sun, Moon & UV
Weather Forecast & Fishing Conditions at Clarke Lake
Today's weather at Clarke Lake features partly cloudy skies with temperatures ranging from 73°F to 87°F. Wind conditions will average 6 mph with gusts reaching up to 18 mph, creating excellent fishing conditions with calm waters. The UV index will reach 8 (Very High), and there's a 52% chance of precipitation. The current water temperature is 70°F (updated Jul 5), indicating that excellent conditions for bass and trout fishing. These conditions will significantly impact fish behavior and angling success throughout the day.
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Solunar Fishing Forecast
Todays action is rated a 3 (scale is 0 thru 5, 5 is the best)
Best Bite Times
Major Times (Peak)
5:56 AM - 8:26 AM
8:13 PM - 10:43 PM
Minor Times (Good)
1:40 AM - 3:10 AM
10:50 AM - 12:20 PM
Fishing Intelligence
Today's fishing action at Clarke Lake is rated 3/5 (Todays action is rated a 3 (scale is 0 thru 5, 5 is the best)). For the best results, target the major bite times around 5:56 AM and 8:13 PM.
Water Temp Impact: With the water at 70°F, expect good activity from warm-water species like bass and panfish.
Common Fish Species
Nearby Lakes
Water Temperature History
Trends for Clarke Lake
Current Temp
Measured on Jun 30
Latest recorded surface temperature.
Lowest in Period
33°F
On Jan 17
Coldest point in the Last 12 Months.
Average in Period
56°F
Typical temp during the Last 12 Months.
Temperature Trend: Last 12 Months
Surface temperature over the selected period.
Key Observations (Last 12 Months)
- Warmest avg: July (78°F).
- Coolest avg: December (36°F).
- Rapid warming often occurs: April → May (+14°F).
- Sharpest cooling trend: November → December (-11°F).
Weather Forecast
Wind speed and pressure trends
Hourly Wind Forecast
Wind Direction
150°
Pressure
1017 mb
Cloud Cover
6%
Visibility
12 miles
Daily Pressure Forecast


Frequently Asked Questions About Clarke Lake
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