Fishing Kinkaid Lake

AKA: Lake Kinkaid

Most Popular Fish
Kinkaid Lake Fishing Video
Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boat Launch Ramps
Fishing Boat Rentals
Marinas
Local Fishing Guides
Fishing License
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Contact Info

Kinkaid Lake, IL

Popular Fish Species Kinkaid Lake, IL

Muskie Fishing

Kinkaid Lake is one of the very best muskie lakes in the state. Fishing for Muskellunge in Kinkaid Lake could provide a trophy fish on any given cast. Giant musky roam these waters and are aggressive eaters. Muskie fishing can bring some exciting moments to your fishing day, as big muskies are spectacular, and strong fighters. Use a strong rod in medium- to medium-heavy action, with heavy line - 20# or heavier. Because of their sharp teeth, steel leaders are highly recommended. Muskie have a big mouth so use big baits, same baits you would use for bass but in larger sizes. Topwater, spinnerbaits, crankbaits and jerkbaits all work well for hungry muskie. The best time of year to chase these big fish is Spring, and then again in Fall as the water temperature starts cooling.

Kinkaid Lake Popular Fish - Largemouth Bass

Largemouth Bass Fishing

Kinkaid Lake continues to deliver very good stringers of largemouth bass, as it has for several years now. Careful fisheries management by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources has maintained a thriving bass fishery, providing both quantity and quality for anglers. Smallmouth bass also reside here in good numbers. Recent results by locals, and bass fishing tournament participants, attest to the fact that fishing for largemouth bass has been very rewarding lately. Also, there is the potential for catching a monster. Big mouth bass often move shallow and become fairly aggressive when they are in a feeding mood. If they seem disinterested in your presentations, try slowing down and use smaller, lighter baits. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap. Around grass use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In deeper water, big worms, jigs and spoons are three good options. In winter, spend your time fishing Kinkaid Lake on deeper structure where the bass spend much of their time. Fishing for largemouth bass can range from fair to very good here, year round.

Walleye Fishing

Thanks to a significant baitfish population, and presence of small sunfish like bluegill and redear sunfish in the lake, walleye are thriving in the fertile waters of Kinkaid Lake this year. May and June tend to be the best time for weekend anglers to catch them. During this time they tend to move shallower, closer to shore and begin spawning. Rock and gravel are preferred areas for the spawn. Other times of the year they are more likely to roam around in deeper water. As always, stay around schools of baitfish. They are eager to feed throughout the lake, but tend to concentrate around structure on points, flats and ledges off the river channels. Walleye have excellent, low-light vision which helps them find food in deep or murky water. Make an effort to be on the water during low light conditions. A proven method for catching walleye here is trolling with spinners tipped with live bait, or trolling with long-billed, deep diving crankbaits. However casting live bait, jigs, worms and spoons also works well at times.

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, black crappie, white crappie, walleye, bluegill, redear sunfish and muskie at Kinkaid Lake in Illinois.

Kinkaid Lake Fishing Video

Located in the southern part of the state, Kinkaid Lake covers 2,700 acres offering excellent fishing, boating and other water sport options. If you enjoy fishing from shore, there are over 70 miles of shoreline to explore in search of your favorite fish.

Kinkaid Lake, nestled in Illinois, is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. Located in Jackson County, this stunning reservoir offers exceptional fishing opportunities and a picturesque natural setting. Kinkaid Lake is renowned for its diverse fish population, attracting anglers from far and wide.

The lake also offers opportunities to target other popular fish species such as bluegill, crappie, and sunfish. These panfish provide enjoyable fishing experiences for families and beginners, offering a chance to relax and unwind while casting a line.

The lake is home to several bass tournaments each year with better than average catches - including bass over 8 pounds. The lake is also home to crappie, catfish, walleye, sunfish and muskie. Boat ramps, a marina, bait and tackle, fishing docks and restaurants are all easily accessible. Bring a pleasure or fishing boat and enjoy water sports and sight seeing on this placid waterway. For fishing, canoes and kayaks can be portaged to water from various locations.

Primary fish species residing in Kinkaid Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Kinkaid Lake Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: NEARBY
Bait & Tackle: NEARBY
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

Aside from fishing, Kinkaid Lake is a popular destination for boating enthusiasts. The lake's expansive waters and calm currents make it ideal for various water activities. Whether you prefer cruising on a pontoon boat, water skiing, or jet skiing, Kinkaid Lake provides a serene and picturesque setting for boating adventures and water sports.

Fishing Boat Rentals

Kinkaid Marina
Rentals: Jon boats and pontoon boats
618 687-5624

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Johnson Creek Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northwest section of the lake, off Johnson Creek Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Lake Kinkaid Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast section of the lake, off Marina Road, this is a six-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.

Paul Ice Recreation Area Boat Ramp
Located in the northeast section of the lake, off Paul Ice Road, this is a four-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.

Marinas

Kinkaid Marina
2063 Marina Rd
Murphysboro, IL 62966
618 687-4914

Fishing Guides On Kinkaid Lake

Shawnee Expeditions Lake Kinkaid Muskie Fishing Guide - Muskie

If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.

Fishing License

Click here for a Illinois Fishing License.

For those who wish to extend their stay, Kinkaid Lake offers camping facilities. Surrounding the lake are well-maintained campgrounds that provide a peaceful and scenic setting for outdoor enthusiasts. Camping at Kinkaid Lake allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of nature, with opportunities for early morning fishing excursions, breathtaking sunsets, and the chance to observe the local wildlife in their natural habitat.

Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby

Johnson Creek Recreation Area Campground - 618 833-8576

Sharp Rock Falls Campground - 618 763-5511

Dry Lake Campground - 618 684-8486

Mudline Lodging Campground - 618 967-2678