Fishing Marion Reservoir

AKA: Marion Lake

Popular Fish Species
Marion Reservoir Fishing Video
Available Fish Species
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Marion Reservoir, KS

Popular Fish Species Marion Reservoir, KS

Marion Reservoir Popular Fish - Hybrid Striped Bass

Hybrid Striped Bass Fishing

Hybrid striped bass, also known as wipers, are a favorite of many locals and fishing guides at Marion Reservoir, as they are plentiful and grow to bragging size. As a hybrid of striped bass and white bass, they have great potential for spawning massive numbers and growing to large sizes. Fishing for hybrid stripers is a matter of locating schools of bait, and schools of hybrid striped bass are likely to be in the area. Mornings, during Fall, hybrids can be caught on topwater or shallow running lures, as they are feeding on baitfish at the surface. When they move deeper, fish finders improve your odds of locating both bait and schools of wipers. Live bait, spoons and jigs are very very effective here, and these hungry fish can be caught year round.

Marion Reservoir Popular Fish - Channel Catfish

Channel Catfish Fishing

For catfish fishing on Marion Reservoir, most any rod and reel will work, as long as the line is strong enough. For serious catfish enthusiasts, using the right equipment improves success. A medium action, to medium-heavy action rod is ideal, in the 6' to 7' range. Use a slip sinker or Carolina rig with popular catfish baits on at least 10-pound line. Use sharp hooks with bait holders on the shank, or circle hooks for live bait. Marion Reservoir has a decent population of channel catfish, and they are eager to bite. The typical fish are about 2 pounds, with larger ones caught frequently. The state record channel catfish is over 35 pounds. Night fishing for catfish often delivers better results than daytime fishing. Fishing for channel catfish is often most productive around any kind of structure in the area. In Spring channel catfish migrate toward incoming water, so stay up river away from the main lake. In early summer look for rocky banks, the bigger the rocks the better. In summer and winter deeper structure is where to look. The river end of the lake is often the area where the bigger catfish are caught. Road beds, creek channels and rocky points are all good places to begin.

Marion Reservoir Popular Fish - White Crappie

White Crappie Fishing

Plenty of healthy white crappie reside in Marion Reservoir, as they are making a nice comeback this year. The fish population is healthy and crappie fishing is excellent. The best time to catch crappie tends to be at dawn and dusk. 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. Live bait and small jigs are the most common method for crappie here.

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for channel catfish, white crappie, walleye, bluegill, white bass and hybrid striped bass at Marion Reservoir in Kansas.

Marion Reservoir Fishing Video

Known for quality walleye fishing, Marion Reservoir can also wet your appetite for catfish, crappie, wiper and white bass fishing. Located in the east-central part of the state, 2 miles west of Marion, this is a 6,200-acre reservoir offering great camping, boating and fishing.

Marion Reservoir, located in central Kansas, is a popular fishing destination known for its scenic beauty and diverse fish populations. Anglers are drawn to Marion Reservoir for its excellent fishing opportunities and the chance to catch a variety of popular fish species.

Walleye is one of the primary game fish found in Marion Reservoir. Anglers can target these prized fish by trolling with crankbaits, casting with jigs, or drifting with live bait along the lake's drop-offs, rocky points, or submerged structures. Successful walleye fishing at Marion Reservoir often requires knowledge of the lake's structure and the use of techniques that appeal to these predator fish. Catching a walleye at Marion Reservoir can be a thrilling experience for any angler.

Hybrid stripers, a cross between striped bass and white bass, are abundant in Marion Reservoir. These hard-fighting fish provide anglers with an exciting challenge and the opportunity to catch trophy-sized specimens. Trolling with crankbaits, casting with swimbaits, or vertically jigging can entice hybrid stripers to bite. Anglers targeting these fish can enjoy the thrill of reeling in these powerful predators.

White bass, known for their schooling behavior, are another popular species found in Marion Reservoir. Anglers can target white bass by casting with jigs, spoons, or crankbaits near submerged structures, rocky points, or in open water where schools of baitfish are present. Catching white bass in Marion Reservoir can result in fast-paced action and multiple hookups, providing an enjoyable angling experience.

Channel catfish are abundant in Marion Reservoir, providing anglers with excellent opportunities for catfishing. These bottom-dwelling fish can be targeted using a variety of baits such as cut bait, stink bait, or live bait. Fishing near the lake's deeper areas, including channels and drop-offs, can increase the chances of landing a catfish. Marion Reservoir's catfish population offers both quantity and quality catches, making it an ideal destination for catfish enthusiasts.

Crappie and bluegill are popular panfish species found in Marion Reservoir. Anglers can target crappie by vertical jigging near submerged structures or brush piles. Using minnows or soft plastics as bait can entice crappie into biting. Bluegill, known for their aggressive nature, offer anglers enjoyable panfishing opportunities. Catching these panfish species can provide anglers with relaxing and rewarding fishing experiences.

Wind your way around the 60 miles of shoreline while sightseeing, boating or chasing your favorite fish species. There is no marina, but boat ramps, campgrounds, RV hookups and bait and fishing tackle are all handy. The town of Marion is just a few minutes away if you need gas, supplies or dining.

Primary fish species residing in Marion Reservoir

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Marion Reservoir Amenities

Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: NEARBY
Convenience Store: NEARBY
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: NEARBY

Today's Weather & Forecast

Marion Reservoir also offers amenities for boating and camping. Anglers can explore the reservoir's waters, navigate with ease, and access various fishing spots. The reservoir's campgrounds and recreational facilities provide convenient options for anglers looking to extend their stay and fully enjoy the outdoor experience.

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Durham Cove Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northwest section of the lake, off Kanza Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with gravel parking.

French Creek Cove Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, off Limestone Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Hillsboro Cove Public Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest section of the lake, off 200th Street, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Marion Cove Public Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast corner of the lake, off Pawnee Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.