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Fishing Monroe Lake

AKA: Lake Monroe

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By AA-Fishing Staff Writers

Fishing Lake, Lake Monroe

Most Popular Fish Species In Monroe Lake, IN


Lake Jordan Popular Fish - Largemouth Bass

Largemouth Bass Fishing

Largemouth bass are thriving in Monroe Lake due to excellent cover and plenty of baitfish. Fishing for bass is good anytime they are shallow, in spring, mornings in summer and during warmer fall days. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap, and around grass use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In deeper water, big worms, jigs and spoons are three good weapons. In winter, spend your time on deeper structure.


Lake Jordan Popular Fish - Channel Catfish

Channel Catfish Fishing

A healthy population of channel cats now populates these waters and can be found all around the lake. Fish for catfish around any kind of structure in the area. Road beds, creek channels and rocky points are all good places to begin.


Popular Fish White Crappie

White Crappie

Fat white crappie reside in Monroe Lake, as they too are making a nice comeback this year. The fish population is healthy and crappie fishing is excellent. Crappie always like cover and structure, so locate shallow brush and vegetation in spring and fall focusing on the 8 to 12 foot range. As the crappie move deep in summer and winter, follow points out to as deep as 30 to 35 feet, as well as ledges near channels at these depths.


Lake Monroe Fishing Video

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, channel catfish, white crappie, walleye and bluegill at Monroe Lake in Indiana.

The largest lake wholly within the state of Indiana, Monroe Lake boasts 3,100 surface acre feet with several popular species of fish residing there. In the past the lake was known as the Dead Sea, due to poor fishing and limited fish populations. In recent years the lake has made a resurgence with considerably better fishing. The lake has a healthy population of crappie and is known for lunker bass and big catfish.

Monroe Lake, Indiana

Monroe Lake, situated in south-central Indiana, is a premier destination for fishing enthusiasts seeking a memorable angling experience. With its expansive size of over 10,000 acres, Monroe Lake offers abundant fishing opportunities for both recreational and experienced anglers.

The lake is known for its diverse fish population, making it a popular spot among local anglers and visitors alike. Popular fish species found in Monroe Lake include largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie, bluegill, catfish, and walleye. Anglers can enjoy casting their lines from the shore or venturing out onto the water in a boat to find their preferred fishing spots.

Fishing Boats For Rent In Indiana

Primary fish species residing in Lake Monroe

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Largemouth bass Channel catfish White crappie Walleye Bluegill

Monroe Lake Amenities

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

Today's Weather & Forecast

Boating is also a favorite activity at Monroe Lake, as the lake provides ample space and amenities for boaters to enjoy. Boaters can explore the expansive waters, take in the scenic beauty of the surrounding forests and rolling hills, and participate in water sports activities such as water skiing or tubing. Monroe Lake offers boat ramps and marinas, ensuring convenient access for boaters to launch their vessels and embark on their chosen water adventures.

Fishing Boat Rentals

Lake Monroe Boat Rental
Rentals: Fishing boats, canoes, kayaks, runabouts and pontoons
812 837-9909

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Allens Creek State Recreation Area Boat Ramp
Located in mid lake, south side of the lake, off E Allens Creek Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with paved parking.

Cutright Boat Ramp
Located mid lake, south side, just east of the Highway 446 Bridge, this is a four-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.

Fairfax Boat Ramp
Located in the northwest corner of the lake, off S Fairfax Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Hardin Ridge Boat Ramp
Located in the southwest corner of the lake, south side, off Harlin Ridge Road, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Moores Creek State Recreation Area
Located mid lake, northwest side of the lake, off S Shields Ridge Road, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Paynetown Boat Ramp
Located mid lake, north side, off Paynetown Road, this is a six-lane, concrete ramp with docks and plenty of paved parking.

Pine Grove Boat Ramp
Located mid lake, north side, off E Pine Grove Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with limited, gravel parking.

Salt Creek Boat Ramp
Located in the southwest corner of the lake, at the east end of the dam, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Fishing Guides On Monroe Lake

Tom's Guide Service - crappies - white perch - bass

Skamaniac Charters, Fishing Guides - Striped Bass - Wipers

Click here for a Indiana Fishing License.

For those looking to extend their stay and fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area, Monroe Lake offers camping facilities near its shores. Several campgrounds equipped with modern amenities cater to both tent camping and RV camping, providing a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience. Camping near Monroe Lake allows visitors to wake up to stunning lake views, enjoy outdoor activities, and have convenient access to fishing and boating throughout their stay.

Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby

Lake Monroe Village Campground - 812 824-8097

Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park of Bloomington - 812 824-3322

Paynetown Campground - 812 837-9546

Monroe Lake, IN Map - Fishing & Camping Areas

Contact Information

Monroe Lake
Lake Monroe Boat Rental
4855 S State Road 446
Bloomington, IN 47401
812 837-9909

 

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