Dam problem blamed for draining of lake
Woodcock Creek Lake, a flood control impoundment in Crawford County, was quickly drained to the mud flats earlier this month. The Army Corps of Engineers reported that a malfunction within the dam led to the accidental draining of the lake March 8.
The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, which manages the fishery, was notified. In summer, the lake normally spans 333 acres. It drains into French Creek.
Army Corps of Engineers staff said the dam was safe. The problem occurred within the outflow structure that regulates water releases, and was caused by ice, the agency said in a statement. The lake was partially ice covered when the drainage occurred.
“We believe we identified one of the primary reasons for the drop in pool level at Woodcock Creek,” said Lt. Col. Timothy Butler, deputy commander of the Pittsburgh District. “We’re still conducting an inquiry to make sure we fully understand everything that has gone and contributed to it, but what we believe it is has been addressed.”
On Thursday, the lake was nearly back to seasonal water level, said corps staff. Fish and Boat was expected to keep its trout stocking appointment March 27 with a delivery of browns, rainbows and golden rainbows. An additional stocking is scheduled for April 7.
No information was available on the status of other species in the lake or tailrace, another popular fishing destination. Nearby residents said large fish were seen flapping in the mud.
More of a warm water fishery, Woodcock Creek
Lake is known among anglers for its muskellunge and walleye fishing. Fish and Boat stocks both as fingerlings.
“Woodcock Creek Lake maintains a high-quality muskellunge population,” stated a 2012 biologist report, “and is part of the Brood Stock Lakes Program utilized by our state hatchery system.”
Fishing report
Lake Erie and tributaries (Erie County): East of the peninsula, fresh steelhead ran on the larger tributaries despite low, clear water. Tipped jigs were the go-to baits on Elk Creek, where fly anglers reported hookups using egg patterns or tan nymphs. Crappies and bluegills were caught by boaters in Misery Bay. Few keeper perch were reported.
Pymatuning Reservoir (Crawford County): Catches of crappies and perch reported.
Lake Wilhelm (Mercer County): A 20-inch, 4.02pound crappie was pulled through the ice Feb. 12, nearly setting a state record.
Allegheny River (Venango County): In waters of 40 degrees, smallmouth bass were holding at about 15 feet.
Ohio River (Allegheny County): A 12.8-pound smallmouth buffalo was caught. Similar to common carp, smallmouth buffalos of smaller size were taken on spoons and crankbaits.
Cross Creek Lake (Washington County): Crappies moved toward shallow water.
Quemahoning Reservoir (Somerset County): Anglers reported catching Northern pike.
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