Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of east-central Cattaraugus County, Case Lake is a man-made marvel that serves both functional and recreational purposes. This reservoir was established in 1970 as part of the Ischua Creek Watershed Protection project to control floods and ensure the well-being of the surrounding communities. The shoreline of Case Lake remains refreshingly undeveloped, graced primarily by mowed fields, scrubland, and some scattered wooded areas. It's a place where the harmony of nature is preserved, offering a serene escape for those seeking outdoor adventures and angling pleasures. Perched at an elevation of 1,560 feet, Case Lake covers an area of 71 acres, with approximately 2 miles of shoreline waiting to be explored. The lake offers an impressive maximum depth of 40 feet, with a mean depth of 15 feet. Located within the Town of Franklinville in Cattaraugus County, Case Lake is a tranquil retreat that beckons to all who appreciate unspoiled beauty and the joys of fishing. Case Lake warmly welcomes anglers and nature enthusiasts, providing accessible access points to enjoy its pristine waters and abundant fish populations. Fishing access is unrestricted, allowing for shoreline fishing along the entire lake. For those with small boats and canoes, a convenient hand launch is available just 1.5 miles east of the Village of Franklinville, accessible via County Route 24. This launch area boasts a parking lot with a capacity for 35 cars, ensuring easy entry for those eager to embark on a fishing adventure. The fish community in Case Lake is both diverse and exciting, promising an enjoyable experience for anglers of all levels. The lake is inhabited by brook trout, brown trout, largemouth bass, bluegill, pumpkinseed, yellow perch, black crappie, and brown bullhead. The lake's fish population contributes to the rich angling tapestry of this peaceful setting. The highlight of the fishing opportunities at Case Lake is undoubtedly its trout. Each spring, the lake is generously stocked with yearling brook trout and brown trout, with some two-year-old brown trout also added to the mix. In years with surplus hatchery breeders, these are stocked in the fall. While the trout fishery at Case Lake is essentially a put-and-take system due to limited trout holdover, it still presents a thrilling angling experience. Fishing for trout is permitted year-round, with spring being a popular season, particularly if local streams are swollen with snowmelt or rainwater in April. Largemouth bass, a staple of freshwater angling, are abundant in Case Lake, exhibiting healthy growth rates. Anglers have the opportunity to reel in good numbers of bass in the 12 to 15-inch size range. The lake's extensive weed beds primarily around the inlet, on the eastern shore, and somewhat on the northwestern shore provide essential fish habitats. Bass enthusiasts can employ a range of effective lures and baits, including spinnerbaits, surface plugs, plastic worms, crankbaits, live crayfish, or worms to entice these sought-after fish. Panfish are also well-represented in Case Lake, with bluegill and pumpkinseed being the dominant species. Additionally, there are ample yellow perch, while black crappie and brown bullhead are somewhat less common. Panfish provide a perfect angling experience for children and those seeking a relaxing day by the water. A simple setup with a bobber and a worm can keep young anglers entertained, although trophy-sized fish in these categories are rare. Case Lake is open to ice fishing enthusiasts during the winter months, offering a serene and refreshing experience in a snowy wonderland. Ice fishing adds another layer of excitement to the angling calendar, allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty of the frozen landscape. Case Lake is not just a reservoir; it's a haven of tranquility where the wonders of nature reign supreme. Whether you're an angler seeking diverse fishing opportunities or a nature enthusiast eager to explore a pristine environment, Case Lake is an invitation to connect with the serene beauty of Cattaraugus County's landscapes. It is a place where you can escape the bustling world and embrace the harmony of unspoiled nature while enjoying the art of angling.