Whites up to 17 inches

Wipers up to 13.5 lbs.

In fall Walleye should be feeding in preparation for winter. Transitional weather can make finding a feeding pattern difficult. Some fish may roam lake flats and river channels looking for baitfish, while others suspend in deeper, cooler water. Trolling river channels and road beds can be a good strategy to find Walleye. Walleye are often caught using nightcrawlers, jigging spoons, minnows, crankbaits, and spinners. 

*3.6 million fry were stocked in April. 200k fingerlings were stocked in June. 

Channel Cats can be found almost anywhere in the lake. Targeting inflows can be successful after rains. Blue Cats tend to prefer deeper structure or windblown flats. Try river channel bends, old road beds, building foundations, humps and submerged bridges. The shore-based Blue Cat angler should look for an upwind shoreline where fish are looking to scavenge. Fall sampling indicated good numbers of blues and channel catfish in the reservoir now. Best baits to use include cut bait, stinkbait, shad sides, shrimp, and nightcrawlers. Most Flathead fisherman use live bait near hard structure like wood and riprap. The causeway and granite creek bridge will hold good numbers of Flatheads. 

Remember, there is a NEW creel limit on blue catfish at Glen Elder. 10 fish per day, only 1 allowed over 30 in. 

*28,000 surplus Channel Cat fingerlings were stocked in April.

Current Water Temperature: 55ºF        Current Water Level: 6.8 feet low

Some boat ramps are unusable due to low water conditions. This currently includes Granite Creek, North Fork River, Carr Creek, and Walnut Creek. Boller Point ramp is very shallow but usable by shallow drafted vessels. Repairs to the face of the dam were completed in February 2023. Water levels should start to rise with rain. 

Fish can be caught just about anywhere on the lake. Anglers should try using shad sides, shad gizzards, shrimp, nightcrawlers, and chicken liver.  Targeting inflow is a popular method as the catfish will congregate there to feed.  

Remember there is a 15 inch minimum length limit on channel catfish

Fishing cut and prepared baits along the river channel from the south boat ramp all the way to buzzard bay. Try deeper catfish humps and structure near bluffs.

Remember there is a 35" minimum length limit on Blue Catfish at Kanopolis Reservoir.

WATER TEMPERATURE- 48°

SURFACE ELEVATION- 2292.59 ---- 11.71 feet below conservation pool

Currently, the water level is 1.79 feet higher than it was one year ago, at this time. Started releasing water for irrigation on 07-16-2024 and shut it off on 8-9-2024.

Remember it is illegal to release any fish into public water unless it was taken from that water.  Please discard leftover bait in a trash can.

WATER TEMPERATURE- 49°

SURFACE ELEVATION- 1716.19 ---- 13.06' below conservation pool

Currently, the water level is 3.67' lower than it was one year ago, at this time. Irrigation releases were shut off on 08-30-2024.

Due to the low water levels (being below 1722 elevation) the main Reservoir has been closed to ALL BOATS from October 1 to April 1, 2025.  The fish cleaning station has been closed for the winter.  A boat cleaning facility (CD3) has been added by the fish cleaning station and is currently usable.   

If you have any questions regarding Kirwin Reservoir and the surrounding public lands, contact the USFWS at 785-543-6673.  

Remember it is illegal to release any fish into public water unless it was taken from that water.  Please discard leftover bait in a trash can.

In winter, fish can be found in deep basins. Look for flats, river channels, and points holding baitfish. Focus on the deeper channels and structure. Nightfall can bring fish up to the shallows in search of food. Try using jigging spoons, minnows, brightly colored lures, or nightcrawlers.

*KDWP stocked 3 million Walleye fry into Lovewell last April and 15,000 intermediates last fall. 

Water Temperature--56ºF   

CAUTION: LONGER BOAT TRAILERS MAY FALL OFF EDGE OF BOAT RAMP WHEN WATER IS LOW

Water Temp. 46 Degrees

Lake is approx. eleven to twelve feet low.   

WATER TEMPERATURE- 48°

SURFACE ELEVATION- 1867.09 ---- 25.36' below conservation pool

The water level is 9.65' lower than it was one year ago at this time. Irrigation releases were shut off on 08-29-2024.

Old Marina and Morel boat ramps are not usable; however, Rock Point (north ramp has been barricaded off, but the south ramp goes all the way to the bottom and is still usable), Goose Flats and Lakeview boat ramps are open at this time.  Fish cleaning station has been closed for the winter.  A boat cleaning station (CD3) has been added by the fish cleaning station and is usable at this time.

The Stilling Basin will be stocked with trout this year for the Trout Season that Starts on December 1 and goes thru March 31, 2025.

Remember it is illegal to release any fish into public water unless it was taken from that water. Please discard leftover bait in a trash can.

Channel Catfish: Fish can be found from shallow to moderate depths. Try cut bait, dough bait, or punch bait thorough the reservoir.

Blue Catfish: scattered throughout the reservoir, try fresh cutbait in 6-30 feet of water on river channel swings or flats near these swings. 

Release all Blue Catfish between 32 - 40 inches. Two can be kept outside this range but only one can be kept over 40 inches.

We are working to establish some native aquatic vegetation at Brown SFL. The fences in the water are to protect the plants until they spread naturally. Please do not disturb the plantings.

If you have information that you would like to contribute to this fishing report, contact Nick Kramer at nick.kramer@ks.gov

Zebra Mussels are present at Clinton Reservoir

Be sure to CLEAN, DRAIN and DRY all equipment that comes in contact with the water to keep from spreading them to another lake.

Summary:

Fishing conditions have improved now that fall has set in and water temperatures are cooling.  The afternoon bite is often better compared to the morning.  Target shallow rocky areas that warm quickly.  Deep channels and dropoffs can be productive in the morning. 

10 fish daily creel limit, only 1 fish 30" or longer

Fisheries biologists continue to study Kansas blue catfish and the research is showing reservoirs with lower population densities exhibit the best growth rates which equates to greater numbers of larger fish available to anglers. Growth rates of blue catfish are variable across Kansas. Time required for a blue catfish to reach 30 inches is as short as 8 years at Tuttle Creek Reservoir to as long as 14 years at El Dorado Reservoir. Due to the time required to grow to larger sizes, these older and larger fish are quite valuable. Angler harvest is necessary to provide desired densities and harvest should be focused upon smaller blue catfish, especially those in the 18 to 25 inch range while releasing the larger fish to fight again.

Water Level and Discharge:  The most recent water level conditions can be found at the following website: 

https://www.nwk.usace.army.mil/Locations/District-Lakes/Clinton-Lake/Daily-Lake-Info-2/

Invasive Species:

Be sure to Clean, Drain, and Dry your boat when you leave to prevent the spread of Zebra mussels. Do not transport live bait captured from Clinton Reservoir.

Fish Habitat:

20 Crappie jacks were placed near Bloomington West Park and should provide good habitat for shore fishing.

Invasive Species: 

Eurasian Water-Milfoil.  Lake users should clean, drain, and dry fishing equipment and boats to prevent the spread. 

Stocking:

30,000 Wiper fry were stocked in May 2024.  Wiper provide predatory control on Gizzard Shad.  Too many shad can reduce survival of young of year sportfish species that compete for similar resources. 

4,875 Channel Catfish were stocked in October 2023.

Most recent fisheries surveys:

Bass and sunfish populations were surveyed in May 2024.  Both populations are healthy and reproduce naturally.  Largemouth Bass up to 18-20 inches, weighing 5-6 lbs are present. 

This deep clear lake offers a diverse fishery. Best for 2024 should be for saugeye, crappie, and largemouth bass.

WARNING..ZEBRA MUSSELS PRESENT!!!

We will be conducting a creel survey at Banner Creek between March 1 and October 31, 2024. You may be approached by creel clerk and asked about your catch.

If you would like to contribute to this fishing report, contact Nick Kramer at nick.kramer@ks.gov

The locations of fish habitat placed in this lake can be found here

Anglers need to check into the Jeffrey Energy Center Guard House located north of St. Mary's, then west off K-63 Hwy.  You can call the Guard House to check on availability at (785) 456-6149.  The Jeffrey Energy Center allows 30 anglers to fish at any one time. 

Auxiliary Lake has zebra mussels which makes the lake designated as a Aquatic Nuisance Species water. Fish may not be transported alive from ANS designated waters. To help prevent the spread of invasive species, please CLEAN, DRAIN & DRY all equipment when changing water bodies and dump your bait.

General Comments:

Urban Catfish stocking.  Catchable sized Channel Catfish will be stocked in March, April, May, and September.  

On May 31, the following ponds will be stocked with catchable-sized Channel Catfish: Governor's Ponds, West Lake (Gage Park), Central Park, Shawnee Jr., Horseshoe Bend, Clarion Park, Shawnee State Fishing Lake.

20 cedar tree brush piles were submerged in Feb. 2024.  New habitat should provide good structure for anglers to target.  

Invasive species: 

Zebra Mussels, Eurasian watermilfoil, and Curley-leaf pondweed.  Lake users should clean, drain, and dry fishing equipment and boats to prevent the spread.

2,500 Smallmouth Bass fingerlings were stocking in June 2024. 

400,000 Saugeye fry were stocked in May 2024. The walleye population has been relatively low in recent years.  Saugeye have experienced great success in other Kansas lakes.  Saugeye were first introduced this year.  

50,000 Wiper fry were stocking June 2024.  Wiper provide predatory control on Gizzard Shad.  Too many shad can reduce survival of young of year sportfish species that compete for similar resources. 

8,320 Channel Catfish were stocked in October 2023.

Bass and sunfish populations were surveyed in May 2024.  Both populations are healthy and reproduce naturally.  Largemouth Bass up to 18-20 inches, weighing 5-6lbs are present. 

The locations of brushpiles and artificial habitat can be found here.

If you have information that you would like to contribute to this fishing report, contact Nick Kramer at nick.kramer@ks.gov. 

Special note: The lake has non-native aquatic plants! Please inspect your trailer and fishing gear before leaving the lake to ensure you are not transporting these plants to any other lakes.    

Please pick up and take home any trash that you may have brought with you.                                                                                                                                                           

Channel catfish can be caught on cut bait, worms, and stink bait. Blue catfish are typically caught on fresh cut bait. Target wind blown flats and river channel ledges for catfish. 

NEW Blue Catfish Regulation...all between 28"-40" must be released...creel limit is 10, but only 1 can be 40" or longer

Target rocky or wind-swept mud banks or along dam with jigs, crankbaits, or bottom bouncers w/ worms

21" minimum length limit, 2/day creel limit.

CAUTION: DO NOT TRANSFER LIVE BAIT FROM ONE BODY OF WATER TO ANOTHER!!! ALONG WITH ZEBRA MUSSEL INFESTATION, INVASIVE CARP ARE IN DRAINAGES ASSOCIATED WITH THE KANSAS RIVER AND CAN EASILY BE MISTAKEN FOR SHAD!!!

Zebra mussels have been found at Paola City Lake (Lake Miola). The lake has been designated as an Aquatic Nuisance Species water. Fish may not be transported alive from ANS designated waters. To help prevent the spread of invasive species, please CLEAN, DRAIN & DRY all equipment when changing water bodies and dump your bait.

Water temperatures should be near 85-86 this weekend 

More brushpiles were added again on 2/28/24. Some new brushpiles were created and some brush was added to some of the existing 2018/19 structures. Many of the new brushpiles can also be accessed by casting from the shore. 

GPS Coordinate locations for all brushpiles. 

N 38.58540, W 094.84338

N 38.58954, W 094.84549 

N 38.58493, W 094.84037

N 38.59411, W 094.84538

N 38.58334, W 094.84544

N 38.58928, W 094.85039

N 38.58596, W 094.84532

A few nice fish in the 35 inch length limit range can be caught, but many fish are below the length limit. Remember blue cats look similar to channel catfish, so be careful with identification.  

There are several hundred Blue Catfish tagged with a small metal tag on the top of their gill plate as part of a population study. The majority of these fish are less than 35" and should be released. If you do harvest a tagged fish greater than 35" please report your tag number to nick.kramer@ks.gov. 

For current lake elevation, inflow, and outflow click here and for the lake forecast click here. 

If you would like to place habitat in Perry Reservoir or contribute to the fishing report, please contact the Fish Biologist, Nick, at nick.kramer@ks.gov to obtain a permit. 

The locations of all known fish habitat can be found here.

This is a generic report and will be updated as information becomes available.

Fishing for all three species of cats can be good below Rocky Ford dam. Channel can be caught on worms, cut bait or prepared bait.  Flathead can be taken on live bait or lures. Blue catfish are usually caught on fresh cut bait. The catfish bite has been fairly good this fall.

Please check any blue catfish for a yellow or orange tag in its back as we have been tagging some to collect more information on the species in Tuttle Creek Lake and the Big Blue River.  Feel free to harvest or release the fish, but please report the tag number and the general location of the catch to (620) 342-0658 or ely.sprenkle@ks.gov   A big THANK YOU to all who report their catch!

Located north of Silver Lake, Shawnee State Fishing Lake is the site of good catch and release largemouth bass fishing. The lake is also noted for channel catfish harvest since the lake receives frequent stockings of harvestable sized catfish from March through September. The Jeffrey Energy Center Lakes and Perry Reservoir both have zebra mussels and with Shawnee State Lake being close it is at high risk. Please, always clean your boat when moving to different water bodies.

The lake and the connected river system has maintained a good channel catfish population through the history of the lake and has been one of the best places around to catch channel cats over 8 pounds. The fishery was underperforming from 2013 to 2020 but has rebounded and been doing well the last three years. The 2023 sample recorded that 19% of the channel catfish were above 24-inches, which is the highest percentage seen in a decade. Fishing in the upper end of the lake and the river tends to be the most consistent spots for channel cats.

K-State is conducting a study to track fish movements and there are a few channel catfish with a purple tag in their back - please release all fish with a purple tag. 

Look for crappie around brush and vegetation. Anglers should target the brush piles and other submerged structure with minnows and jigs or nearby points and drop offs. 

Harvest regulations include 50/day creel limit.

Fish are in typical summer pattern.  Fish can be caught around any aquatic vegetation, off the rocky jetties, and around any cover in the water. Focus on submerged wood in the vegetation. Try topwater early and late and wacky worms, Ned Rigs, spinnerbaits, roadrunners, and crankbaits during mid day.

Harvest regulations include a 15-inch minimum length limit and 5/day creel limit.

Jig and night crawler should really work on the points and flats right now.  Also try casting crankbaits and swimbaits over points, shelves, and along rip-rapped shorelines adjacent to deeper water.

Harvest regulations include a 15-inch minimum length limit and 5/day creel limit.

Look for crappie around brush and vegetation. Anglers should target the brush piles and other submerged structure with minnows and jigs or nearby points and drop offs where pre-spawn crappie might stage. Anglers are encouraged to harvest high numbers of crappie to help maintain a desirable level

Harvest regulations include 50/day creel limit.

Fish are in typical summer pattern.  Fish can be caught around any aquatic vegetation, off the rocky jetties, and around the overhanging trees in the water. Focus on submerged wood in the vegetation. Try topwater early and late and wacky worms, Ned Rigs, spinnerbaits, roadrunners, and crankbaits during mid day.

Harvest regulations include a 15-inch minimum length limit and 5/day creel limit.

Still catching walleye/saugeye along the dam by casting small jigs, jerkbaits and swimbaits.  Jig and night crawler should really work on the points and flats right now.  

Harvest regulations include a 15-inch minimum length limit and 5/day creel limit.

Look for crappie around brush and vegetation. Anglers should target the brush piles and other submerged structure with minnows and jigs or nearby points and drop offs where pre-spawn crappie might stage. Anglers are encouraged to harvest high numbers of crappie to help maintain a desirable level.  

Harvest regulations include 50/day creel limit.

Fish are in typical summer pattern.  Fish can be caught around any aquatic vegetation, off the rocky jetties, and around the overhanging trees in the water. Focus on submerged wood in the vegetation. Try topwaters early and late and wacky worms, Senkos, Ned Rigs, spinnerbaits, roadrunners, and crankbaits during mid day.

Harvest regulations include a 13 - 18 inch slot length limit and 5/day creel limit.

Casting crankbaits and swimbaits over points, shelves, and along rip-rapped shorelines adjacent to deeper water.

Harvest regulations include a 15-inch minimum length limit and 5/day creel limit.

Creel limit 2/day Length Limit 15-inches

Cut bait, nightcrawlers, and prepared baits are producing fish. Fish feeders are done feeding for the year.

Chase SFL is an ANS designated water.

Zebra mussel veligers (larval zebra mussels) are too small to be seen with the unaided eye and they can be found in boat livewells, minnow buckets, boat bilges, and anything else that is capable of holding even a small amount of water.

Be sure to drain all equipment before leaving the lake to avoid moving veligers to other waters. THIS INCLUDES MINNOW BUCKETS AND BOAT LIVEWELLS AND BILGES!!!

 CLEAN DRAIN & DRY Every Lake, Every Time!

There is a 13 to 18 inch slot limit on Largemouth Bass in effect at the lake.

Dark and natural colored grubs, spinnerbaits, or small crankbaits in the coves in 5 to 8 feet of water. 

Zebra mussels can be found attached to rocks lakewide. Zebra mussel veligers are too small to be seen with the unaided eye and they can be found in boat livewells, minnow buckets, boat bilges, water toys, and anything else that is capable of holding even a small amount of water. Be sure to drain all equipment before leaving the lake to avoid moving veligers to other waters. THIS INCLUDES MINNOW BUCKETS, BOAT LIVEWELLS, AND BILGES!!!

Click HERE to learn how to prevent the spread of zebra mussels.

White perch can be caught in similar areas as White Bass and Wipers using smaller lures. Most White Perch are 5"-9". 

White perch cannot be used as live bait, but they do make good cut bait. For tips on identifying a white perch from a white bass, wiper or striped bass click HERE.

All white perch in your possession must be dead. It is illegal to posses live white perch.

Zebra mussels have been discovered in Council Grove Reservoir.

Zebra mussel veligers (larval zebra mussels) are too small to be seen with the unaided eye and they can be found in boat livewells, minnow buckets, boat bilges, water toys and anything else that is capable of holding even a small amount of water.

Be sure to drain all equipment before leaving the lake to avoid moving veligers to other waters. THIS INCLUDES MINNOW BUCKETS AND BOAT LIVEWELLS AND BILGES!!!

CLEAN DRAIN & DRY Every Lake, Every Time!

Zebra mussel veligers (larval zebra mussels) are too small to be seen with the unaided eye and they can be found in boat livewells, minnow buckets, boat bilges, water toys and anything else that is capable of holding even a small amount of water.

Be sure to drain all equipment before leaving the lake to avoid moving veligers to other waters. THIS INCLUDES MINNOW BUCKETS AND BOAT LIVEWELLS AND BILGES!!!

CLEAN DRAIN & DRY Every Lake, Every Time!

Click HERE to learn how to prevent the spread of zebra mussels.  REMEMBER!! Zebra Mussels are also present in the Trout Area below the dam!!

20/day creel limit

Most crappie this week have been caught in depths of 8-16 ft near brush or river channels.  Minnows and jigs are always a good bait selection for crappie.

THE WALLEYE LENGTH LIMIT IS 21-INCHES WITH A 2/DAY CREEL LIMIT.

Walleye have been caught trolling crankbaits this week along old roads and across windy points and fllats.  Vertically fishing blade baits and spoons has also produced.

2.8 ft below Normal Pool, releasing 5 CFS. Click Here for the most up to date lake level information. 

ZEBRA MUSSEL & WHITE PERCH WARNING! El Dorado Reservoir and the Walnut River below the reservoir contain zebra mussels and white perch. Take zebra mussel control precautions when leaving the lake, Trout Area, and Stilling Basin. For information on Aquatic Nuisance Species click Here.

13 inch to 18 inch slot limit 5 fish per day creel limit.

Spinnerbaits, crank baits and plastics on rocky shorelines, points, and ledges in 5 to 9ft of water.

20/day creel limit

Crappie are being found in water 8 to 18 ft deep on brush piles or along breaks.  

4 cubes N38 22.450’ W 097 04.669’

4 cubes N38 22.455’ W 097 04.664’

4 cubes N38 22.426’ W 097 04.694’

3 cubes N38 22.757’ W 097.05.227’

3 cubes N38 22.763’ W 097 05.211’

3 cubes N38 23.407’ W 097 05.460’

2 cubes N38 23.467’ W 097 05.384’

2 cubes N38 23.478’ W 097 05.399’

4 cubes N38 23.481’ W 097 05.408’

Adult Zebra Mussels were found 7/31/08 at Lake Afton.

Zebra mussels reproduce during the warmer months and veligers (larval stage) are present in the water column. Veligers are too small to be seen with the unaided eye and can be found in boat livewells, minnow buckets, boat bilges, water toys and anything else that is capable of holding even a small amount of water.

Be sure to drain all equipment before leaving the lake to avoid moving veligers to other waters. THIS INCLUDES MINNOW BUCKETS, BOAT LIVEWELLS AND BILGES!!!

Visit the following link to learn how to prevent the spread of zebra mussels. https://ksoutdoors.com/Fishing/Aquatic-Nuisance-Species/Aquatic-Nuisance-Species-List/White-Perch

REMEMBER!! Zebra Mussels are also present in Clearwater Creek below the spillway!

Zebra mussels were verified in Winfield City Lake in December 2006. Lake users should follow recommended control practices found HERE .

Be sure to drain all equipment before leaving the lake to avoid moving veligers to other waters. THIS INCLUDES MINNOW BUCKETS AND BOAT LIVEWELLS AND BILGES!!!

Walleye minimum length limit 18 inches.

Trolling crankbaits and drifting jig and crawler on the north shore flats and points.  Also along the old road.

The City of Winfield requires additional permits for anglers using the lake. Stop in to the lake office before fishing at the lake.

Lake level is 2.3 ft below normal.

10% 11"-16"

30% 16"-24"

55% 24"-28"

5% 28"-36"

19% 6"-9"

20% 9"-12"

48% 12"-15"

13% 15"-18"

Saugeye can be found on flats of 10-14 ft that is near deeper water of 20 feet and deeper at this time of the year. Any depth changes, or structure, will hold fish and can be caught by a variety of methods, such as trolling or vertical jigging. Anglers have reported catching saugeye near the dam on the east side of the lake on swimbaits, jigheads with plastics, and trolling crankbaits. Recent sampling indicated a lower density population than in previous years, but quality up to 25-inches were observed. 

The minimum length for Saugeye at Bone Creek is 18 inches and a daily creel of 5 fish per day! 

Water Temperature: 61° F, November 15, 2024

Be sure to Clean, Drain, and Dry your boat, bait buckets, and recreational watercraft before and after launching your boat. It is important and required by law to remove your drain plug on your watercraft upon departure to drain live wells and water inside of your boat; it will protect our natural resources in Kansas for current anglers and future generations to enjoy. Eurasian watermilfoil is an nonnative aquatic vegetation species that is present in Bone Creek. Be sure to inspect your boat, boat trailer, and bait buckets prior to launching and leaving Bone Creek to prevent the spread. Be sure to stay up to date on information regarding Aquatic Nuisance Species. Remember it is illegal to release any fish into public water unless it was taken from that water!

If you would like to provide a fishing report for Bone Creek Reservoir, don't hesitate to contact Connor Ossowski, District Fisheries Biologist, at (620) 231-3173.

Zebra Mussels have recently been found in Hillsdale Lake, and we'd like to remind you to stay aware and take all precautions necessary to prevent the spread into uncontaminated waters! This includes cleaning and rinsing your boat, motor, trailer and equipment, draining any excess water from previous outings, and allowing your boat to dry before using it in a different body of water. 

Remember to "CLEAN, DRAIN AND DRY" your boats and equipment.

For tips on spring bass fishing check out the KDWPT video at the following link! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KpIJaiyW32k 

For crappie anglers, watch this 25-minute video that covers Kansas crappie fishing during spring, summer, fall, and winter https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sazyEuIT_bk 

NO special permits required, this is a Community Fisheries Assistance Program Lake. Use caution, this lake has quantities of standing and submerged trees and limited shoreline access. This is a 220 acre lake with approximately 180 acres of standing trees. Fishing only lake. The lake has a boat ramp, parking lot, security light, floating dock, and vault toilet on the east side of the lake and a boat ramp and parking lot on the west side..

Zebra Mussels have recently been found in Hillsdale Lake, and Linn Valley, Linn County, (Private Lake Development), we'd like to remind you to " Clean, drain and dry"

Water level management at Bourbon State Fishing Lake is an important fisheries management tool.  By partially draining some of the lake water, in the fall, small fish are forced out of the shallows into deeper water where predators can harvest them, preventing some stunting, improving growth of crappie, bluegill and improving bass and walleye/saugeye growth and condition.  This tool improves energy flow and growth producing better fishing opportunities for anglers. 

Fish attracting habitat have been placed along the shoreline to attract fish and improve shoreline angling. This lake produces some nice crappie each year.  Recent sampling indicates that there are many good crappie to catch.  The bass population at this impoundment consists of spotted and largemouth bass.  Spotted bass tend to hang near rocks and the dam, whereas on the south end of the lake your more likely to catch only largemouth bass.  

The lake was just recently restocked with channel catfish.

Entrance gate phone number is 620-364-2475 call for lake conditions

Fishing near the  warm water outlet during the fall and winter can be very productive for multiple species.

A large brush pile was created north of the boat ramp in the old creek channel and is marked with a fish attractor buoy. There were also several trees sunk at the end of the hot water dike and should be easily marked on your locator. These spots should be really good in the fall and winter months.

ZEBRA MUSSELS have been confirmed in Coffey County Lake! Please help stop the spread. Clean, Drain, and Dry your boat and livewell after leaving this lake. It is illegal to transport live fish, bait, and water from this lake.

Largemouth bass densities and size structure are improved, since being infected with LMBV (Largemouth Bass Virus) in 2007. Strong year classes in the 8-12" size category indicate good numbers that haven't been as prominent since 2005. Quality fish up to 21" were sampled and anglers will benefit from the improved numbers and quality of largemouth bass in Crawford State Lake. Anglers should focus on coves and jetties using a variety of methods, which include spinnerbaits, top-water lures, plastic lures, and jerkbaits. An often overlooked method, the "Ned Rig" can also be utilized during all times of the year, but specifically in the summer months, when largemouth bass don't seem as willing to bite other types of lures.

Largemouth bass phase II advanced fingerlings have been stocked in 2020 (7,500 fingerlings), 2021 (3,750 fingerlings) 2022 (3,890 fingerlings), 2023 (7,500 fingerlings), and 2024 (7,500 fingerlings - 6/4/2024). The KDWP Fisheries Biologist plans to continue to request phase II advanced fingerling stockings for the next two years to help bolster current year classes of largemouth bass. This will be evaluated through fin clips to assess genetics to realize stock contribution to the fishery. In conjunction with the stocking, cedar trees will be added to the lake to enhance spawning, refuge, and forage structure near shore for largemouth bass to flourish.  

Water Temperature: 61° F, November 15, 2024

Be sure to Clean, Drain, and Dry your boat, bait buckets, and recreational watercraft before and after launching your boat. It is required by law to remove your drain plug on your watercraft upon departure to drain live wells and water inside of your boat; it will protect our natural resources in Kansas for current anglers and future generations to enjoy. Be sure to stay up to date on information regarding Aquatic Nuisance Species. Remember it is illegal to release any fish into public water unless it was taken from that water!

Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks & Tourism fisheries staff recently undertook a project to produce lake maps, or bathymetric maps, for public waters statewide. The lake map for Crawford State Fishing Lake can be found at the following link: https://ksoutdoors.com/Fishing/Where-to-Fish-in-Kansas/Bathymetric-Lake-Maps.This link will provide you with a link for all bathymetric lake maps for the state of Kansas. Scroll down to find Crawford State Fishing Lake. This will allow for anglers to view the depths of the lake to choose different habitats and lake depths to fish for different species, year-round. You will also find current GPS locations of habitat structures placed by KDWPT fisheries staff to easily input into your sonar unit, or find if you are fishing from shore. 

If you would like to provide a fishing report for Crawford State Fishing Lake, don't hesitate to contact Connor Ossowski, District Fisheries Biologist, at (620) 231-3173.

This is a great Kayak or small craft lake.  Critzer Lake is one of Kansas' newest lakes and was opened to fishing in August of 2011. Many anglers use kayaks or tubes to float into the cover and are very successful. There is a double lane boat ramp. The floating dock is finished and compliments this great fishing lake.  The lake is primarily a boat lake but there is shoreline access east of the boatramp where anglers can set up on the two piers and be very close to the parking lot. This 220 acre lake offers 180 acres of standing timber so there is a no-wake speed limit.

There is a second, smaller access area located at the south west part of the lake, from 800 rd. and Gorman, north 1/4 mile.  This area makes it easier for anglers in small craft to launch and paddle/fish the more timbered areas. There is a parking lot and gravel ramp and provides shoreline angling also. 

Zebra Mussels have recently been found in Hillsdale Lake, and  Linn Valley Lake, this is a private lake community, we'd like to remind you to stay aware and take all precautions necessary to prevent the spread into uncontaminated waters! This includes cleaning and rinsing your boat and motor, trailer, and equipment, draining any excess water from previous outings, and allowing your boat to dry before using it in a different body of water. 

Remember CLEAN, DRAIN, DRY!

We have improved the area with a floating dock, located just west of the boat ramp.

For tips on spring bass fishing watch this KDWPT video at the following link! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KpIJaiyW32k 

Check out this video from Brent Chapman fishing for bass in Critzer Lake! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ngvw2uz3oH0 

0% 11"-16"

30% 16"-24"

40% 24"-28"

30% 28"-36"

 Ft Scott Lake has boat ramps and several docks and good shoreline access for fishing.  This lake has great shoreline angling, lots of room to spread out, for social distancing. The lake has a good reputation for producing good stringers of channel catfish.  Channel catfish from the rearing pond are stocked into this lake each fall.  

Recent tree/habitat placements, In 2014, 2015 and 2016, 2017,2020 about 900 xmas trees were placed at each end of the dam and along the east side.  The tree placement along the dam are very accessible for shoreline anglers.  This project will improve angler success for bass and crappie.   

Recently there were 3,500 channel catfish stocked to spice up the fishing.

Zebra Mussels have recently been found in Hillsdale Lake, and Linn Valley, Linn County, (Private Lake Development), we'd like to remind you to "CLEAN, DRAIN and DRY" all watercraft before and after entering this lake.

 Remember- Wear a Lifejacket and Reach - Throw - Don t Go. Buy your state fishing license and have fun. Please remember the special length/creel limits.

Get the kids, get your friends and Go Fishing. Remember to "CLEAN, DRAIN AND DRY" your boats, trailers and equipment.

Sign up for the Mound City Fishing District Newsletter today!

For tips on spring bass fishing check out the KDWPT video at the following link! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KpIJaiyW32k 

For crappie anglers, watch this 25-minute video that covers Kansas crappie fishing during spring, summer, fall, and winter https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sazyEuIT_bk 

This is a Community Fisheries Assistance Lake Cooperator,no city permits for fishing and boating while fishing. City permit required for recreational boating.

Great Kansas Fishing Derby May 15 to Sept 15  Visit www.ksfishderby.com for more info; Tagged Fish - Channel Catfish

Please remember to help STOP AQUATIC HITCHHIKERS! CLEAN, DRAIN, and DRY your boat and livewell when leaving water bodies. 

Four Georgia Cube Fish Attractors were placed by the fishing dock (2on the East end and 2 on the West end) on the north end of the lake. 

DO NOT MOVE FISH OR BAIT TO DIFFERENT WATERS!

Comments -   Fishing below the dam during low to moderate releases can be real productive for multiple species.

Brush Pile Coordinates:

N 38^o 14.743'
W 95 ^o 45.998'

N 38^o  14.658'
W 95^o 46.138'

N 38^o 14.419'
W 95^o 46.767'

N 38^o 14.256'
W 95^o 46.423'

N 38^o 14.722'
W 95^o 45.641'

N 38^o 14.811'
W 95^o 45.694'

N 38^o 14.922'
W 95^o 45.715'

N 38^o 15.222'
W 95^o 45.728'

Fishing below the dam during low to moderate releases should be good for most species.

 For current lake level and release information click the following link http://www.swt-wc.usace.army.mil/JOHN.lakepage.html.

ALERT! This lake contains Zebra Mussels please help stop the spread Clean, Drain, and Dry your boat and equipment after leaving this water body. It is Illegal transport live fish, bait, and water from this lake.

38% 4-7"

36% 7-9"

26% 9-11"

27% 8-12"

38% 12-15"

36% 15-20"

0% >20"

0% 9-14"

50% 14-18"

25% 18-22"

25% 22-27" 

ATTENTION!  This lake has zebra mussels.  Live fish may not be transported away from this lake.  Clean, drain, and dry all boats.

Size structure listed for largemouth bass is from May 2024 electrofishing. The size structures listed for crappie, bluegill, redear, and channel catfish are from November 2024 fall test netting.

To view a map of brush pile and habitat cube locations, copy these files into Google Earth and zoom into the lake.  

For more information about the Fall River/Toronto Fisheries District, click here to access newsletters.

Access to the river can be challenging.

The marais des cygnes river flow varies but could produce some good fishing opportunities. Several reports about good bluecat caught on cut bait or shad with trotlines or rod n reel.

The river and streams on the state wildlife area are open to fishing. The Marias des Cygnes River is a great place to float and fish.  

Get the kids, get your friends and Go Fishing.

Remember to "CLEAN, DRAIN AND DRY" your boats and equipment. The Marais des Cygnes River is confirmed to contain zebra mussels.  Please take extra precaution by not removing fish and placing them in another body of water (bait fish included), and cleaning, draining, and drying boats motors trailers and all equipment before entering another body of water.  This helps prevent the spread to unc

Summary:

Fishing conditions have improved now that fall has set in and water temperatures are cooling.  The afternoon bite is often better compared to the morning.  Target shallow rocky areas that warm quickly.  Deep channels and dropoffs can be productive in the morning. 

10 fish daily creel limit, only 1 fish 30" or longer

Fisheries biologists continue to study Kansas blue catfish and the research is showing reservoirs with lower population densities exhibit the best growth rates which equates to greater numbers of larger fish available to anglers. Growth rates of blue catfish are variable across Kansas. Time required for a blue catfish to reach 30 inches is as short as 8 years at Tuttle Creek Reservoir to as long as 14 years at El Dorado Reservoir. Due to the time required to grow to larger sizes, these older and larger fish are quite valuable. Angler harvest is necessary to provide desired densities and harvest should be focused upon smaller blue catfish, especially those in the 18 to 25 inch range while releasing the larger fish to fight again.

Water level and discharge:

Current conditions can be found at:

https://www.nwk.usace.army.mil/Locations/District-Lakes/Melvern-Lake/Daily-Lake-Info-2/

Invasive Species: 

Melvern Reservoir has Zebra Mussels.  Remember to clean, drain, and dry your watercraft to prevent the spread of invasive species. 

2024/2025 Trout Stocking Schedule for Unit #30 "Trout Pit" for Trout Season (December 1, 2024 - March 31, 2025): 

Rainbow trout are stocked each winter in Unit #30 in the "Trout Pit". The rainbow trout average 1.1 per pound in 2023, so larger rainbow trout will be available for trout anglers. 

Remember anglers -- A trout permit is required to be able to fish on the "Trout Pit" on Unit #30 during the trout season (December 1-March 31). Rainbow trout & Brown Trout are managed under a combined daily creel limit of five fish. 

Directions to the Trout Pit (Unit #30) are as follows: 8 miles south of the McCune turn off on Highway 400 on  NW 100th St. and a half mile to the west on NW Lawton Rd. OR  5 miles west of West Mineral on NW Scammon Rd., 4 miles south on NW 100th St. and a half mile to the west on NW Lawton Rd.

•Catch and release is allowed on the Neosho River

•A fish must be kept if placed on a stringer. Culling is not allowed.

•A state-issued permit is required. Two paddlefish may be harvested daily and six may be harvested in a season.

•Barbless hooks are required at Chetopa.

The best fishing occurs at river flows of 10-15,000 cubic feet per second. The following link will take you to the Kansas Water Watch website. Click HERE for river flow data.

Invasive species: 

Zebra Mussels and Curley-leaf pondweed are present.  Lake users should clean, drain and dry fishing equipment and boats to prevent the spread.

Stocking:

20,000 Wiper fry were stocked in May 2024.  Wiper provide predatory control on Gizzard Shad.  Too many shad can reduce survival of young of year sportfish species that compete for similar resources. 

3,500 Channel Catfish were stocked in October 2023.

Most recent fisheries survey:

Bass and sunfish populations were surveyed in May 2024.  Both populations are healthy and reproduce naturally.  Largemouth Bass up to 18-20 inches, weighing 5-6lbs are present. 

This is a great Kayak or small boat lake.  This is a GREAT FAMILY FISHING LAKE.  The best way to measure social distancing is with a fishing pole.  The best time to fish is anytime you can. This lake has great shoreline angling, lots of room to spread out, for social distancing.  his is a great kayaking while you are fishing lake, no recreational boating.  Have the lake to yourself. 

There are good crappie here.  This lake has a high density of largemouth bass, great fishing for kids! Also, keep in mind that there is a decent wiper population.  The channel cat population in this lake is doing well, and during our sampling we saw a few walleye and saugeye, as well as some sizeable flatheads.  Channel catfish, are stocked in mid October to increase fishing opportunities.   This will supplement the population and maintain fishing opportunities.

Zebra Mussels have recently been found in Hillsdale Lake, and (Private) Linn Valley Lake in Linn County, we'd like to remind you to stay aware and take all precautions necessary to prevent the spread into uncontaminated waters! This includes cleaning and rinsing your boat and motor, trailer, and equipment, draining any excess water from previous outings, and allowing your boat to dry before using it in a different body of water. 

Sign up for the Mound City Fishing District Newsletter today! Remember to "CLEAN, DRAIN AND DRY" your boats and equipment. Don't move water from any impoundment. 

For tips on spring bass fishing check out the KDWPT video at the following link! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KpIJaiyW32k 

For crappie anglers, watch this 25-minute video that covers Kansas crappie fishing during spring, summer, fall, and winter https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sazyEuIT_bk 

Water levels are good. The weather is great for fishing.  Pomona has produced many good crappie in the 10 to 14 inch range and excellent white bass.    Also remember this lake has a good wiper and an improving walleye, saugeye population.  These are often caught at the drop offs along creek channels, and around concentrations of gizzard shad.

The reservoir also supports some larger walleye and blue catfish, though in low numbers.  These numbers will be improved by future stockings. 

 Zebra mussels now inhabit this lake. This means take EXTRA PRECAUTION to help prevent the spread into uncontaminated impoundments.

"Clean, Drain and Dry" before and after using any equipment on this lake.

 For additional information, water temperature, release rates, please check:  http://www.nwk.usace.army.mil/Locations/District-Lakes/Pomona-Lake/Daily-Lake-Information/ 

Have FUN, Get the kids, get your friends and Go Fishing. Remember to "CLEAN, DRAIN AND DRY" your boats and equipment. The State and COE Parks are ready for family fishing.

Sign up for the Mound City Fishing District Newsletter today!

Check out this video on fish management provided by KDWP http://ksoutdoors.com/Fishing/Special-Fishing-Programs-for-You/Fishing-Videos/Kansas-Fish-Management 

For crappie anglers, watch this 25-minute video that covers Kansas crappie fishing during spring, summer, fall, and winter https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sazyEuIT_bk