Sheesley Lake

Nestled within the HHA grounds, Sheesley Lake offers members a peaceful place to enjoy fishing, wildlife, and the natural beauty of the property.


This five-acre lake provides year-round fishing opportunities and is home to a variety of freshwater fish, including bluegill, sunfish, bass, and catfish.


Whether you're spending a quiet afternoon fishing or introducing a young angler to the outdoors, Sheesley Lake is one of the club's most treasured recreational amenities.


Members should review current lake regulations before visiting, including requirements concerning fishing licenses, permitted bait, and guest access.


Youth Fishing & Community Events

Sheesley Lake also plays an important role in HHA's youth and community activities.


Each summer, the club hosts its annual Kids' Fishing Derby, welcoming young anglers for a day of fishing, outdoor recreation, and family-friendly fun.


The lake is also used during the Capital Area Sportsmen for Youth Field Day, helping introduce the next generation to fishing and conservation.

Lake Regulations

To help protect the lake, its wildlife, and everyone enjoying the property, all visitors must observe the following regulations:


  • Membership: Fishing is reserved for HHA members and their guests with a valid guest pass. Guests must remain accompanied by the sponsoring member.
  • Guest Responsibility: Members are responsible for the conduct of their guests.
  • Fishing Licenses: Pennsylvania fishing regulations apply. Anglers must possess a valid Pennsylvania fishing license when required by state law.
  • Bait Restrictions: Live minnows are not permitted.
  • Catch and Release: Catch-and-release fishing is recommended to support the lake's fish population.
  • Prohibited Activities: Swimming, boating, and ice skating are not permitted.
  • Facility Closures: The lake may be closed during scheduled club activities and special events. Check the club calendar before visiting.


Fishing Hours: Fishing is permitted from 30 minutes before sunrise until sunset, unless later access has been approved by the Board of Directors.

History of the Lake

The lake is named in honor of Earl Sheesley, who was a member of the Board of Directors in the late 1940’s. He was the driving force behind the creation of the lake. In the 1940’s, if you wanted to create a lake, the club president simply carried a box of explosives out to the site and made it happen. Actually, the explosives carved out an area to make ditches to drain the field. The blast opened a ditch to drain the swamp and permitted the use of heavy equipment to build an earthen dam to back up spring water and create the lake. A total of 900 feet of ditches were dug to drain the land. Excavation of the site started in October of 1947. The lake was completed in August of 1949. Water began to collect in the lake and reached the desired level (4-8 feet) in January 1950.

Join the HHA Family

Our members are the heart of Harrisburg Hunters Association.

Membership provides access to a diverse range of facilities, programs, events, and educational opportunities while supporting the future of responsible sportsmanship and outdoor recreation.