Pyramid State Park - Goldeneye Lake

Striped Bass x White Bass (Wiper)

Developing

Hybrid Striped Bass stockings were initiated in 2021. Results from a targeted survey conducted during spring of 2024 indicates the population is developing well and should begin providing good angling opportunities. Hybrid Striped Bass captured during the survey ranged in length from 16" to 21.5", the largest weighing about 4.5 lbs. The fishery for Hybrid Striped Bass should continue to improve with time, as growth potential will likely be good given the dense forage base of Gizzard Shad.

Redear Sunfish

Average

Although less abundant, Redear size structure is slightly better than that of Bluegill, as some Redear have exceeded 8 inches during surveys.

Bluegill

Poor

Although Bluegill are abundant, the size structure is poor. The vast majority of Bluegill in the lake are under 6 inches in length.

Largemouth Bass

Very Good

Goldeneye Lake remains an excellent bass fishing lake. A targeted bass electrofishing survey was completed during spring of 2025 and yielded a catch rate of 120 bass/hour, which exceeded the management target of 100 bass/hour. Management targets for body condition (relative weight) and size structure (proportional size distribution) were also exceeded. About 39% of bass in the sample were over 15 inches, and 21% were over 18 inches. The largest bass in the sample was 21.3 inches and just over 5 lbs.

Channel Catfish

Good

A small number of Channel Catfish have been collected during past surveys. Individuals up to 9 lbs. have been observed.

Muskellunge

Very Good

Stockings of non-vulnerable size (10-14") Muskie have occurred since 2002. Targeted Muskie trap net surveys are conducted on a biennial basis, but catch rates are typically low due to the limited effectiveness of trap nets in strip mine lakes. During the 2024 Muskie survey, only two Muskie were collected, measuring 16" and 32". Anglers have reported catches of Muskie up to 47" from Goldeneye Lake. Thus, survey results from 2024 are not representative of the population.

Black Crappie

Very Good

Goldeneye Lake has a quality Black Crappie population known more for size than numbers. Black Crappie over 1 lb. are common and frequently captured during fish population surveys.