The Lackawanna River is a remarkable conservation success story flowing through northeastern Pennsylvania. Originating as two separate branches—the East Branch in Wayne County and the West Branch in Susquehanna County—this 42-mile tributary of the Susquehanna River has transformed from a once-neglected waterway plagued by acid mine drainage to a thriving wild trout fishery. As a freestone stream, the Lackawanna flows through both scenic rural areas in its upper reaches and more urbanized areas as it courses through the heart of Lackawanna County. With 11 miles designated as a PA Class A Wild Trout Stream, including the stretch from Carbondale City to Olyphant, the river offers exceptional fishing opportunities for both novice and experienced anglers throughout most of the year.