South Central Region Fishing Reports

Fishing reports provide general angling information from KDWPT staff. The department cannot update the reports on a regular, frequent basis. Many factors determine angling success, and fishing conditions and individual fishing success may vary from the report. Anglers are responsible for deciding what species to fish for, what methods to use, and where and when to fish. You can help fellow anglers by sharing successful fishing notes at http://www.facebook.com/kdwpt

MCPHERSON STATE FISHING LAKE - Last Updated: 4/30/2024

Species Rating Size Baits, Method & Location
Channel catfish Fair 1 - 5 lbs. Try worms and cutbait on the bottom.
Crappie Good 8-14" Reports of fish caught lake wide on jigs and minnows. Should be moving up shallow to spawn.
Largemouth bass Fair Up to 6 lb. Try using soft plastics, spinner baits, and crank baits near structure. 
Saugeye Poor 15-26" No reports but try 1/8 and 1/4 oz. jigs tipped with worms along the dam, piers and upper end.
General Comments

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ANTHONY CITY LAKE - Last Updated: 5/7/2024

Species Rating Size Baits, Method & Location
Channel catfish Good up to 12lbs Try fishing cut bait, worms, or stink bait near shallow flats.
Crappie Fair to Good Up to 14" Try jigs or minnows near structure. 
Largemouth Bass Fair to Good Up to 5lbs Try using soft plastics or crank baits near structure. 
General Comments
 



BLACK KETTLE STATE FISHING LAKE - Last Updated: 4/30/2024

Species Rating Size Baits, Method, & Location
Crappie Poor 6" to 10" Fish with small minnows and jigs around brush. There are a few nice crappie in the lake although most are fairly small.
Bluegill Poor   Worms under a bobber or very small jigs.
Channel Catfish Fair 2-6 lbs. Fish with cut bait, stink bait, or chicken livers lake wide.
Largemouth Bass Fair 12" to 20" Fish shallow brush with Texas rigged softbait, jigs, and spinnerbaits. The water here is typically murky so try darker colored lures (black & blue, dark purple, green pumpkin).
General Comments
 



BUTLER STATE FISHING LAKE - Last Updated: 5/7/2024

Species Rating Size Baits, Method & Location
Channel Catfish Good with inflows up to 20 inch

Creel limit 2/day Length Limit 15-inches

Cut bait and nightcrawlers have produced fish this week.  Fishing baits on the bottom in areas with wind have been best.  Times of inflow are great for channel catfish.

Largemouth Bass Fair 12 to 16 inch Bass activity is improving with the warmer water temperatures.  Shallow cover is good on the warmer days.  Jigs and plastic worms have been good with crank baits and spinnerbaits working well during the warm days.
Crappie Fair up to 8 inch Most of the crappie at Butler are small with very few quality sized fish.  Crappie can be caught on small minnows or jig and float near shoreline cover.  Fish are moving towards spawning areas where they are easily accessible from shore.
Bluegill Fair up to 7 inch Small live bait presentations near shoreline cover
General Comments
Lake refilled over the winter and boat ramp is again usable.



CHASE STATE FISHING LAKE - Last Updated: 5/7/2024

Species Rating Size Baits, Method & Location
Zebra Mussels Are Present in Chase State Fishing Lake.    

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!

Channel Catfish Fair to Good 13 to 24 inches

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

Worms and stinkbaits on windy shorelines.

Largemouth Bass Fair 10 - 17 inches

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

Spinnerbaits and plastics along weeds, rocks, and brush.

Saugeye Fair up to 22 inches 4+-inch flukes along the dam, points, and rocky shorelines.  
Spotted Bass Fair   Same as largemouth bass.
Bluegill Fair   Look for bluegill in shallow areas with cover during warm and sunny days.  Small jigs or live bait are good choices.
Crappie Fair to Good up to 12 inches Jigs in shallow brushpiles near shore.  Fish are moving shallow for the spawn.
General Comments
 



CHENEY RESERVOIR - Last Updated: 5/6/2024

SPECIES RATING SIZE BAITS, LOCATION, METHODS
Zebra Mussels    

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 Bass and Wiper Fair to Good Up to 27" Crank baits and jigs near shallow points.
Walleye Fair Up to 27" Large crank baits, jigs, and night crawlers near shallow points and flats.
Crappie Fair Up to 17" Try using jigs or minnows near shallow brush piles and rocky shores. 
Blue Catfish Fair  Up to 50lbs Fish with live bait or cut bait near shallow flats. Reports of small (10"-20") Blue Catfish being caught. Be sure to identify your catch!
Channel Catfish Fair to Good Up to 20lbs Try fishing cut bait or stink bait near shallow flats.
White Perch Good Up to 12"

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.

COMMENTS
The lake is still 5.6ft low. Most boat ramps are unusable. Use caution when boating.



COUNCIL GROVE CITY LAKE - Last Updated: 5/6/2024

Species Rating Size Baits, Method & Location
       
Zebra Mussel     Zebra mussels have been discovered in Council Grove City Lake. Click HERE for more information.
Bluegill Fair   near gravel banks and vegetation on small jigs and worms
Crappie Fair/Good   10 ft deep near ledges on jigs and minnows
Channel catfish Fair/Good   near windy flats and flooded brush on cut bait and worms
Black bass Fair/Good   on jigs, spinnerbaits, or crankbaits 5-15ft deep near docks, points, and brush
Walleye Fair   along dam and deeper points/banks on jigs and spoons
White bass Fair/Good   along dam and points on spinners and jigs
General Comments
The City of Council Grove requires Aquatic Nuisance Species certification of anglers and boaters at Council Grove City Lake. You must have this certificate in your possession while fishing and/or boating at Council Grove City Lake.



COUNCIL GROVE RESERVOIR - Last Updated: 5/6/2024

Species Rating Size Baits, Method & Location
Zebra Mussels    

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!

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

Channel Catfish Fair/Good   near wind blown flats and creek channel ledges on cut bait and worms
Saugeye Fair/Good   near dam and gravel/rock points on jigs and worms
White Bass Fair/Good   along deep rock points and ledges on spinners and jigs
Wiper Fair   a few in with white bass
Crappie Fair/Good  

10-20 ft deep on minnows and jigs near points, brush, and ledges

Creel limit 20/day

General Comments

Outlet fishing is slow/fair for catfish, white bass, and saugeye

Click HERE for water level information.



COWLEY STATE FISHING LAKE - Last Updated: 5/7/2024

Species Rating Size Baits, Method & Location
Bluegill Fair   Small artificial baits/jigs or live bait such as worms near brushy and rocky shoreline cover.
Channel Catfish Good up to 17 inch

15-inch minimum length limit 5/day creel limit

Channel catsfish have been caught recently on worms and cut bait on windy shorelines.  Fishing has been good during recent infows.

Largemouth Bass Fair and improving up to 18 inch Jerk baits along the south facing rocky shorelines and ends of fishing piers during the warmer days.  Spinnerbaits and crankbaits are becoming move productive as water warms
Redear Sunfish Fair   Same as bluegill
General Comments
 



EL DORADO RESERVOIR - Last Updated: 5/7/2024

Species Rating Size Baits, Method & Location
Zebra Mussels    

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!!

Wiper Fair 17-22 inch

Be sure to properly ID your catch as there is there is an 21-inch minimum length limit and 2/day creel limit on wiper.

See white bass report.

White bass Fair 9-14 inch Jig and plastics on points during the windy days.  Also being found on flats and near breaks in 8 to 14 feet of water, shallower if it is a warmer day.  A few reports of whites in the creeks with the recent inflows.  Wipers are mixed in with the white bass.
White Perch     No recent reports.  White perch can usually be found on mainlake breaks and rocky areas.  Small hooks and worms are always productive.
Crappie Fair to Very Good Up to 15+ inches

20/day creel limit

Crappie are moving in shallow in preparation for the spawn.  Fishing has been as up and down as the weather, but should improve quickly as the weather patterns stabilize.  Good baits are jig and float and minnow and float.  Many anglers start shallow and then work deeper until active fish are located.  Look for flooded weeds or shoreline brush.

Blue Catfish Fair up to 40 inches, with a lot of 18 to 24 inch "eater" sized fish.

There is a 25 to 35 inch protective slot limit on blue catfish and a 5/day creel with no more than 2 blue catfish over 35 inches.

Blue catfish reports have become few and far between with anglers focusing on crappie and walleye.  Blue catfish can be caught year around and fresh cut bait is the bait of choice.  Blue catfish continue to work shallow water along windblown points and shorelines.  Cut bait fished on the bottom is a simple but productive method.  Please harvest all legal fish under the slot length limit.  In order for a slot to work, fish need to be harvested below the slot.

Walleye Fair up to 26 inch

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

Walleye are beginning to show up on shallow points and flats, but fishing is still a little slow.  Jig and nightcrawler is an effective combo for this post spawn bite.  Areas in the wind are more attractive to feeding fish.

General Comments

1.69 ft below Normal Pool, releasing 7 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.



HARVEY COUNTY EAST LAKE - Last Updated: 5/7/2024

Species Rating Size Baits, Method & Location
Channel Catfish Fair to Good up to 24" Try fishing cut bait, worms, or stink bait shallow.
Crappie Fair  up to 14" Try a jig or minnow fished near structure. 
Largemouth Bass Poor  up to 20" Try fishing soft plastics and crank baits near structure. 
Saugeye Poor to Fair up to 25" Fish with jigs or minnows near the dam or rocks. 
General Comments

Harvey County East Lake is under a Harmful Algal Bloom WARNING!

A harmful algal bloom is expected or present.

  • Water is unsafe for humans and animals.
  • Avoid all contact with water.
  • Inhalation of spray or aerosols may be harmful.
  • Do not let pets eat dried algae or drink contaminated water.
  • If fish are caught, clean well with potable water and eat fillet portion only.

Water levels are very low. Launching a boat may not be possible!



KINGMAN STATE FISHING LAKE - Last Updated: 5/6/2024

Species Rating Size Baits, Method & Location
Channel catfish NA    
Largemouth Bass NA 8"-14"  
Northern Pike NA    
Crappie NA    
General Comments

Boat ramps are now open but the lake is still 2 feet low. Stockings have begun but most fish will need a minimum on 1-2 years to reach catchable size. Some adult (8"-14") Largemouth Bass have been stocked. This will provide some opportunity for anglers this year. However, it will take a couple of years for the Bass population to reach ideal numbers and sizes.  

The Salvage Order has been removed. Length and creel limits are in effect again!



MARION COUNTY LAKE - Last Updated: 5/7/2024

Species Rating Size Baits, Method & Location
Channel Catfish Fair to Good up to 22 inches Nightcrawlers or stink bait on windy shorelines.
Crappie Fair up to 12 inch

20/day creel limit  

Crappie are spawning and are moving to shallower cover.  Crappie fishing has been a little tough recently as fish are moving up and back with the variable weather.  Good spawning presentations include jig and float and jig and minnow.  

Largemouth bass Good  

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

Bass activity is approving as water temperatures increase.  Plastic worms and grubs near shallow cover are producing on warmer days. 

Saugeye Fair   Few reports this week
Bluegill Good up to 8 inch The bluegill bite has been good this week.  Small hooks and live bait/worms, small artificials, and small jigs or flies are producing.
White Bass & Wipers     Few reports this week
General Comments
Boat and bait inspections are MANDATORY at Marion County Lake to prevent the spread of Zebra Mussels and other Aquatic Nuisance Species. Protect our waters... don't forget to CLEAN, DRAIN, and DRY!



MARION RESERVOIR - Last Updated: 5/7/2024

Species Rating Size Baits, Method & Location
Zebra Mussels     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!
Channel Cat Fair to Good 14 to 24 inches Cats are being caught shallow during the warmer weather.  Shad sides and cut bait are great late winter/early spring baits for channel catfish. Shallow points and flats where the wind is blowing in are productive areas.
White Crappie Fair up to 13 inches

20/day creel limit

Anglers are having fair success recently.  Crappie are moving shallow for the spawn. Look for shallow brush or cover in areas with a rocky, gravelly bottom, or sandy substrate.  Crappie action will improve with stable weather patterns.

Walleye Slow to Fair  

NEW WALLEYE HARVEST REGULATIONS EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1, 2022.

18 INCH MINIMUM LENGTH LIMIT 3/DAY CREEL LIMIT WITH NO MORE THAN ONE FISH 21 INCHES OR LONGER.

Walleye fishing continues to be Slow to Fair this week.  A few fish are moving up to points, flats, and humps.  A jig and crawler is a very simple, but effective, bait for springtime walleye.  Walleye have been caught in 4 to 12 feet of water depending on the weather and wind conditions.

White Bass Fair to Good up to 14 inch White bass and wipers are roaming the open water and are where you find them.  They aren't staying in one location for very long.  Good areas are points and flats where wind is pushing in waves.  Windy areas of the dam can be great for white bass this time of year.
Wiper Fair to Good 18 to 24 inches See white bass report
Coordinates for habitat cubes    

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’

Coordinates for brushpiles and cubes.   The first 3 coordinates are for one large brushpile. Coordinates mark areas with multiple habitat structures in the area.

N 38 21.907' W 097 05.562'

N 38 21.912' W 097.05.560'

N 38 21.920' W 097.05.557'

N 38 22.425' W 097 04.697'

N 38 22.767' W 097 05.208'

N 38 22.757' W 097 05.227'

N 38 23.250' W 097 05.491'

N 38 23.357' W 097 05.470'

Coordinates for brushpiles   Near shore brushpile placements fishable from shore in Cottonwood Cove.

N 38 23.438' W 097 05.398'

N 38 23.436' W 097 05.404'

N 38 23.428' W 097 05.402'

N 38 23.426' W 097 05.405'

N 38 23.499' W 097 05.393'

N 38 23.489' W 097 05.399'

N 38 23.480' W 097 05.401'

N 38 23.472' W 097 05.398'

Coordinates for brushpiles constructed March 2018    

N 38 24.459' W 097 06.907'

N 38 24.450' W 097 06.975'

N 38 22.685' W 097 06.279'

N 38 22.680' W 097 06.279'

N 38 22.216' W 097 06.065'

Coordinates for historical habitat sites that had brush added to them in March 2018.    

N 38 21.911' W 097 05.569'

N 38 22.426' W 097 04.702'

N 38 22.776' W 097 05.220'

Coordinates for new brushpiles constructed April 2019    

N 38 23.464' W 097 05.412'

N 38 23.149' W 097 05.476'

N 38 23.169' W 097 05.516'

General Comments

4.36 feet below Normal Pool, releasing 2 CFS.  Click HERE for the most up to date lake level information. 

Marion Cove boat ramp is the best ramp for launching with the low water level.  



SEDGWICK CO. - LAKE AFTON - Last Updated: 5/7/2024

Species Rating Size Baits, Method & Location
Zebra Mussels    

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!

White Perch Fair to Good 4"-8" Use a small hook with a small piece of work or panfish lures. White perch may not be possessed alive. They make great cut (dead) bait for catfish!
Channel Catfish Good up to 5lbs Try hotdogs and cut bait. Harvest-sized Channel Catfish are stocked regularly in the Spring and Fall. 
Crappie Fair up to 12" Crappie spawn is almost over, so they will start moving off shore into deeper water soon. Try crappie jigs and minnows around brush and rocks. Not many big fish in the lake.
Bluegill Fair up to 8" Try a small piece of worm under a bobber around rocks and brush.
Largemouth Bass Poor up to 21" Bass will be moving shallow to create beds for spawning soon. Try bluegill and crawfish imitating baits. The population is low.
General Comments
Channel Catfish stockings have resume!  Visit https://ksoutdoors.com/Fishing/Special-Fishing-Programs-for-You/Urban-Fishing-Program for more information.



WELLINGTON CITY LAKE - Last Updated: 5/7/2024

Species Rating Size Baits, Method & Location
Channel Catfish Fair to Good   Worms and fresh cut bait on windy shorelines.
Wiper Fair up to 23 inch Jig and plastic on windy shorelines, old dam, and new dam. 
Crappie Fair to Good   Shallow cover has been productive as the crappie move in to the spawn.  Jigs or minnows under a small float is always a great tactic for spawning crappie.
Saugeye Fair 15 to 22 inches Jerk baits and flukes along the old and new dam and windy flats.
General Comments
Fish attractors in the form of brushpiles have been added to the lake.  The brushpiles attract and hold a variety of species including crappie, bluegill, flathead catfish, and channel catfish.  You can find a map showing locations and GPS coordinates at https://ksoutdoors.com/fishhabitatmap on the KDWP website.  Zoom in on Wellington City Lake on the map and brushpiles will be marked with the orange dots.  Brushpiles have been added in 2022 and 2024.



WELLINGTON HARGIS CREEK - Last Updated: 5/7/2024

Species Rating Size Baits, Method & Location
Channel Catfish Fair to Good Up to 8 lbs Stink bait and worms fished on the bottom along windblown shorelines.
Crappie Fair 6 - 9 inch Minnows or jigs under a float near cover
Largemouth Bass Fair 9 - 15 inch Jigs, grubs, or smaller jerk baits fished near cover.  
General Comments
 



WICHITA - URBAN FISHING REPORT - Last Updated: 5/2/2024

Species Rating Size Baits, Method & Location
       
Channel Catfish Good Up to 20" The majority of public fishing waters around the Wichita Metro Area are stocked regularly in the Spring and Fall with harvest-sized Channel Catfish. They can be easily caught on worms and hotdogs. 
Crappie Fair Up to 12" Try using minnows or a small jigs in deeper areas of the lakes. Crappie fishing is best at the KDOT Lakes, SG County Park, OJ Watson Park, and Chisholm North lake.
Largemouth Bass Fair Up to 18"  Largemouth Bass can be found in most Wichita area lakes but catching can be tough due to low populations and high angling pressure. Your best opportunities to catch bass are at the KDOT lakes, Emery Park, Vic's Lake, and Chisholm North lake. Between now and June is the best time to catch them. They will bite just about any type of lure on any given day. 
Bluegill Good Up to 8" Bluegill are present in every lake in the area. Try a small piece of worm or a small jig under a bobber.
Rainbow Trout  Poor up to 20" Last trout stocking has occurred at Vic's Lake, Slough in multiple pools, and OJ Watson Park (Section with Dock and Fountain). A Trout Permit is no longer required but creel limit of 5/day is still in effect. Use floating dough baits, fliers, panfish jigs, worms, small spoons, or spinners.  
General Comments

Channel Catfish stockings have resumed! For locations and schedule, please visit https://ksoutdoors.com/Fishing/Special-Fishing-Programs-for-You/Urban-Fishing-Program 

White Perch are present at KDOT West, SG County Park Lakes, South Lake, and North Chisholm Lake. These are designated AIS waters, so no live fish can be transported from these locations INCLUDING SUNFISH FOR BAIT. In addition, no live white perch may be possessed, and anglers are encouraged to not release any caught back into the water. They taste similar to white bass!



WICHITA - URBAN FISHING REPORT - Last Updated: 5/2/2024

Species Rating Size Baits, Method & Location
       
Channel Catfish Good Up to 20" The majority of public fishing waters around the Wichita Metro Area are stocked regularly in the Spring and Fall with harvest-sized Channel Catfish. They can be easily caught on worms and hotdogs. 
Crappie Fair Up to 12" Try using minnows or a small jigs in deeper areas of the lakes. Crappie fishing is best at the KDOT Lakes, SG County Park, OJ Watson Park, and Chisholm North lake.
Largemouth Bass Fair Up to 18"  Largemouth Bass can be found in most Wichita area lakes but catching can be tough due to low populations and high angling pressure. Your best opportunities to catch bass are at the KDOT lakes, Emery Park, Vic's Lake, and Chisholm North lake. Between now and June is the best time to catch them. They will bite just about any type of lure on any given day. 
Bluegill Good Up to 8" Bluegill are present in every lake in the area. Try a small piece of worm or a small jig under a bobber.
Rainbow Trout  Poor up to 20" Last trout stocking has occurred at Vic's Lake, Slough in multiple pools, and OJ Watson Park (Section with Dock and Fountain). A Trout Permit is no longer required but creel limit of 5/day is still in effect. Use floating dough baits, fliers, panfish jigs, worms, small spoons, or spinners.  
General Comments

Channel Catfish stockings have resumed! For locations and schedule, please visit https://ksoutdoors.com/Fishing/Special-Fishing-Programs-for-You/Urban-Fishing-Program 

White Perch are present at KDOT West, SG County Park Lakes, South Lake, and North Chisholm Lake. These are designated AIS waters, so no live fish can be transported from these locations INCLUDING SUNFISH FOR BAIT. In addition, no live white perch may be possessed, and anglers are encouraged to not release any caught back into the water. They taste similar to white bass!



WICHITA - URBAN FISHING REPORT - Last Updated: 5/2/2024

Species Rating Size Baits, Method & Location
       
Channel Catfish Good Up to 20" The majority of public fishing waters around the Wichita Metro Area are stocked regularly in the Spring and Fall with harvest-sized Channel Catfish. They can be easily caught on worms and hotdogs. 
Crappie Fair Up to 12" Try using minnows or a small jigs in deeper areas of the lakes. Crappie fishing is best at the KDOT Lakes, SG County Park, OJ Watson Park, and Chisholm North lake.
Largemouth Bass Fair Up to 18"  Largemouth Bass can be found in most Wichita area lakes but catching can be tough due to low populations and high angling pressure. Your best opportunities to catch bass are at the KDOT lakes, Emery Park, Vic's Lake, and Chisholm North lake. Between now and June is the best time to catch them. They will bite just about any type of lure on any given day. 
Bluegill Good Up to 8" Bluegill are present in every lake in the area. Try a small piece of worm or a small jig under a bobber.
Rainbow Trout  Poor up to 20" Last trout stocking has occurred at Vic's Lake, Slough in multiple pools, and OJ Watson Park (Section with Dock and Fountain). A Trout Permit is no longer required but creel limit of 5/day is still in effect. Use floating dough baits, fliers, panfish jigs, worms, small spoons, or spinners.  
General Comments

Channel Catfish stockings have resumed! For locations and schedule, please visit https://ksoutdoors.com/Fishing/Special-Fishing-Programs-for-You/Urban-Fishing-Program 

White Perch are present at KDOT West, SG County Park Lakes, South Lake, and North Chisholm Lake. These are designated AIS waters, so no live fish can be transported from these locations INCLUDING SUNFISH FOR BAIT. In addition, no live white perch may be possessed, and anglers are encouraged to not release any caught back into the water. They taste similar to white bass!



WICHITA - URBAN FISHING REPORT - Last Updated: 5/2/2024

Species Rating Size Baits, Method & Location
       
Channel Catfish Good Up to 20" The majority of public fishing waters around the Wichita Metro Area are stocked regularly in the Spring and Fall with harvest-sized Channel Catfish. They can be easily caught on worms and hotdogs. 
Crappie Fair Up to 12" Try using minnows or a small jigs in deeper areas of the lakes. Crappie fishing is best at the KDOT Lakes, SG County Park, OJ Watson Park, and Chisholm North lake.
Largemouth Bass Fair Up to 18"  Largemouth Bass can be found in most Wichita area lakes but catching can be tough due to low populations and high angling pressure. Your best opportunities to catch bass are at the KDOT lakes, Emery Park, Vic's Lake, and Chisholm North lake. Between now and June is the best time to catch them. They will bite just about any type of lure on any given day. 
Bluegill Good Up to 8" Bluegill are present in every lake in the area. Try a small piece of worm or a small jig under a bobber.
Rainbow Trout  Poor up to 20" Last trout stocking has occurred at Vic's Lake, Slough in multiple pools, and OJ Watson Park (Section with Dock and Fountain). A Trout Permit is no longer required but creel limit of 5/day is still in effect. Use floating dough baits, fliers, panfish jigs, worms, small spoons, or spinners.  
General Comments

Channel Catfish stockings have resumed! For locations and schedule, please visit https://ksoutdoors.com/Fishing/Special-Fishing-Programs-for-You/Urban-Fishing-Program 

White Perch are present at KDOT West, SG County Park Lakes, South Lake, and North Chisholm Lake. These are designated AIS waters, so no live fish can be transported from these locations INCLUDING SUNFISH FOR BAIT. In addition, no live white perch may be possessed, and anglers are encouraged to not release any caught back into the water. They taste similar to white bass!



WICHITA - URBAN FISHING REPORT - Last Updated: 5/2/2024

Species Rating Size Baits, Method & Location
       
Channel Catfish Good Up to 20" The majority of public fishing waters around the Wichita Metro Area are stocked regularly in the Spring and Fall with harvest-sized Channel Catfish. They can be easily caught on worms and hotdogs. 
Crappie Fair Up to 12" Try using minnows or a small jigs in deeper areas of the lakes. Crappie fishing is best at the KDOT Lakes, SG County Park, OJ Watson Park, and Chisholm North lake.
Largemouth Bass Fair Up to 18"  Largemouth Bass can be found in most Wichita area lakes but catching can be tough due to low populations and high angling pressure. Your best opportunities to catch bass are at the KDOT lakes, Emery Park, Vic's Lake, and Chisholm North lake. Between now and June is the best time to catch them. They will bite just about any type of lure on any given day. 
Bluegill Good Up to 8" Bluegill are present in every lake in the area. Try a small piece of worm or a small jig under a bobber.
Rainbow Trout  Poor up to 20" Last trout stocking has occurred at Vic's Lake, Slough in multiple pools, and OJ Watson Park (Section with Dock and Fountain). A Trout Permit is no longer required but creel limit of 5/day is still in effect. Use floating dough baits, fliers, panfish jigs, worms, small spoons, or spinners.  
General Comments

Channel Catfish stockings have resumed! For locations and schedule, please visit https://ksoutdoors.com/Fishing/Special-Fishing-Programs-for-You/Urban-Fishing-Program 

White Perch are present at KDOT West, SG County Park Lakes, South Lake, and North Chisholm Lake. These are designated AIS waters, so no live fish can be transported from these locations INCLUDING SUNFISH FOR BAIT. In addition, no live white perch may be possessed, and anglers are encouraged to not release any caught back into the water. They taste similar to white bass!



WICHITA - URBAN FISHING REPORT - Last Updated: 5/2/2024

Species Rating Size Baits, Method & Location
       
Channel Catfish Good Up to 20" The majority of public fishing waters around the Wichita Metro Area are stocked regularly in the Spring and Fall with harvest-sized Channel Catfish. They can be easily caught on worms and hotdogs. 
Crappie Fair Up to 12" Try using minnows or a small jigs in deeper areas of the lakes. Crappie fishing is best at the KDOT Lakes, SG County Park, OJ Watson Park, and Chisholm North lake.
Largemouth Bass Fair Up to 18"  Largemouth Bass can be found in most Wichita area lakes but catching can be tough due to low populations and high angling pressure. Your best opportunities to catch bass are at the KDOT lakes, Emery Park, Vic's Lake, and Chisholm North lake. Between now and June is the best time to catch them. They will bite just about any type of lure on any given day. 
Bluegill Good Up to 8" Bluegill are present in every lake in the area. Try a small piece of worm or a small jig under a bobber.
Rainbow Trout  Poor up to 20" Last trout stocking has occurred at Vic's Lake, Slough in multiple pools, and OJ Watson Park (Section with Dock and Fountain). A Trout Permit is no longer required but creel limit of 5/day is still in effect. Use floating dough baits, fliers, panfish jigs, worms, small spoons, or spinners.  
General Comments

Channel Catfish stockings have resumed! For locations and schedule, please visit https://ksoutdoors.com/Fishing/Special-Fishing-Programs-for-You/Urban-Fishing-Program 

White Perch are present at KDOT West, SG County Park Lakes, South Lake, and North Chisholm Lake. These are designated AIS waters, so no live fish can be transported from these locations INCLUDING SUNFISH FOR BAIT. In addition, no live white perch may be possessed, and anglers are encouraged to not release any caught back into the water. They taste similar to white bass!



WICHITA - URBAN FISHING REPORT - Last Updated: 5/2/2024

Species Rating Size Baits, Method & Location
       
Channel Catfish Good Up to 20" The majority of public fishing waters around the Wichita Metro Area are stocked regularly in the Spring and Fall with harvest-sized Channel Catfish. They can be easily caught on worms and hotdogs. 
Crappie Fair Up to 12" Try using minnows or a small jigs in deeper areas of the lakes. Crappie fishing is best at the KDOT Lakes, SG County Park, OJ Watson Park, and Chisholm North lake.
Largemouth Bass Fair Up to 18"  Largemouth Bass can be found in most Wichita area lakes but catching can be tough due to low populations and high angling pressure. Your best opportunities to catch bass are at the KDOT lakes, Emery Park, Vic's Lake, and Chisholm North lake. Between now and June is the best time to catch them. They will bite just about any type of lure on any given day. 
Bluegill Good Up to 8" Bluegill are present in every lake in the area. Try a small piece of worm or a small jig under a bobber.
Rainbow Trout  Poor up to 20" Last trout stocking has occurred at Vic's Lake, Slough in multiple pools, and OJ Watson Park (Section with Dock and Fountain). A Trout Permit is no longer required but creel limit of 5/day is still in effect. Use floating dough baits, fliers, panfish jigs, worms, small spoons, or spinners.  
General Comments

Channel Catfish stockings have resumed! For locations and schedule, please visit https://ksoutdoors.com/Fishing/Special-Fishing-Programs-for-You/Urban-Fishing-Program 

White Perch are present at KDOT West, SG County Park Lakes, South Lake, and North Chisholm Lake. These are designated AIS waters, so no live fish can be transported from these locations INCLUDING SUNFISH FOR BAIT. In addition, no live white perch may be possessed, and anglers are encouraged to not release any caught back into the water. They taste similar to white bass!



WICHITA - URBAN FISHING REPORT - Last Updated: 5/2/2024

Species Rating Size Baits, Method & Location
       
Channel Catfish Good Up to 20" The majority of public fishing waters around the Wichita Metro Area are stocked regularly in the Spring and Fall with harvest-sized Channel Catfish. They can be easily caught on worms and hotdogs. 
Crappie Fair Up to 12" Try using minnows or a small jigs in deeper areas of the lakes. Crappie fishing is best at the KDOT Lakes, SG County Park, OJ Watson Park, and Chisholm North lake.
Largemouth Bass Fair Up to 18"  Largemouth Bass can be found in most Wichita area lakes but catching can be tough due to low populations and high angling pressure. Your best opportunities to catch bass are at the KDOT lakes, Emery Park, Vic's Lake, and Chisholm North lake. Between now and June is the best time to catch them. They will bite just about any type of lure on any given day. 
Bluegill Good Up to 8" Bluegill are present in every lake in the area. Try a small piece of worm or a small jig under a bobber.
Rainbow Trout  Poor up to 20" Last trout stocking has occurred at Vic's Lake, Slough in multiple pools, and OJ Watson Park (Section with Dock and Fountain). A Trout Permit is no longer required but creel limit of 5/day is still in effect. Use floating dough baits, fliers, panfish jigs, worms, small spoons, or spinners.  
General Comments

Channel Catfish stockings have resumed! For locations and schedule, please visit https://ksoutdoors.com/Fishing/Special-Fishing-Programs-for-You/Urban-Fishing-Program 

White Perch are present at KDOT West, SG County Park Lakes, South Lake, and North Chisholm Lake. These are designated AIS waters, so no live fish can be transported from these locations INCLUDING SUNFISH FOR BAIT. In addition, no live white perch may be possessed, and anglers are encouraged to not release any caught back into the water. They taste similar to white bass!



WICHITA - URBAN FISHING REPORT - Last Updated: 5/2/2024

Species Rating Size Baits, Method & Location
       
Channel Catfish Good Up to 20" The majority of public fishing waters around the Wichita Metro Area are stocked regularly in the Spring and Fall with harvest-sized Channel Catfish. They can be easily caught on worms and hotdogs. 
Crappie Fair Up to 12" Try using minnows or a small jigs in deeper areas of the lakes. Crappie fishing is best at the KDOT Lakes, SG County Park, OJ Watson Park, and Chisholm North lake.
Largemouth Bass Fair Up to 18"  Largemouth Bass can be found in most Wichita area lakes but catching can be tough due to low populations and high angling pressure. Your best opportunities to catch bass are at the KDOT lakes, Emery Park, Vic's Lake, and Chisholm North lake. Between now and June is the best time to catch them. They will bite just about any type of lure on any given day. 
Bluegill Good Up to 8" Bluegill are present in every lake in the area. Try a small piece of worm or a small jig under a bobber.
Rainbow Trout  Poor up to 20" Last trout stocking has occurred at Vic's Lake, Slough in multiple pools, and OJ Watson Park (Section with Dock and Fountain). A Trout Permit is no longer required but creel limit of 5/day is still in effect. Use floating dough baits, fliers, panfish jigs, worms, small spoons, or spinners.  
General Comments

Channel Catfish stockings have resumed! For locations and schedule, please visit https://ksoutdoors.com/Fishing/Special-Fishing-Programs-for-You/Urban-Fishing-Program 

White Perch are present at KDOT West, SG County Park Lakes, South Lake, and North Chisholm Lake. These are designated AIS waters, so no live fish can be transported from these locations INCLUDING SUNFISH FOR BAIT. In addition, no live white perch may be possessed, and anglers are encouraged to not release any caught back into the water. They taste similar to white bass!



WICHITA - URBAN FISHING REPORT - Last Updated: 5/2/2024

Species Rating Size Baits, Method & Location
       
Channel Catfish Good Up to 20" The majority of public fishing waters around the Wichita Metro Area are stocked regularly in the Spring and Fall with harvest-sized Channel Catfish. They can be easily caught on worms and hotdogs. 
Crappie Fair Up to 12" Try using minnows or a small jigs in deeper areas of the lakes. Crappie fishing is best at the KDOT Lakes, SG County Park, OJ Watson Park, and Chisholm North lake.
Largemouth Bass Fair Up to 18"  Largemouth Bass can be found in most Wichita area lakes but catching can be tough due to low populations and high angling pressure. Your best opportunities to catch bass are at the KDOT lakes, Emery Park, Vic's Lake, and Chisholm North lake. Between now and June is the best time to catch them. They will bite just about any type of lure on any given day. 
Bluegill Good Up to 8" Bluegill are present in every lake in the area. Try a small piece of worm or a small jig under a bobber.
Rainbow Trout  Poor up to 20" Last trout stocking has occurred at Vic's Lake, Slough in multiple pools, and OJ Watson Park (Section with Dock and Fountain). A Trout Permit is no longer required but creel limit of 5/day is still in effect. Use floating dough baits, fliers, panfish jigs, worms, small spoons, or spinners.  
General Comments

Channel Catfish stockings have resumed! For locations and schedule, please visit https://ksoutdoors.com/Fishing/Special-Fishing-Programs-for-You/Urban-Fishing-Program 

White Perch are present at KDOT West, SG County Park Lakes, South Lake, and North Chisholm Lake. These are designated AIS waters, so no live fish can be transported from these locations INCLUDING SUNFISH FOR BAIT. In addition, no live white perch may be possessed, and anglers are encouraged to not release any caught back into the water. They taste similar to white bass!



WICHITA - URBAN FISHING REPORT - Last Updated: 5/2/2024

Species Rating Size Baits, Method & Location
       
Channel Catfish Good Up to 20" The majority of public fishing waters around the Wichita Metro Area are stocked regularly in the Spring and Fall with harvest-sized Channel Catfish. They can be easily caught on worms and hotdogs. 
Crappie Fair Up to 12" Try using minnows or a small jigs in deeper areas of the lakes. Crappie fishing is best at the KDOT Lakes, SG County Park, OJ Watson Park, and Chisholm North lake.
Largemouth Bass Fair Up to 18"  Largemouth Bass can be found in most Wichita area lakes but catching can be tough due to low populations and high angling pressure. Your best opportunities to catch bass are at the KDOT lakes, Emery Park, Vic's Lake, and Chisholm North lake. Between now and June is the best time to catch them. They will bite just about any type of lure on any given day. 
Bluegill Good Up to 8" Bluegill are present in every lake in the area. Try a small piece of worm or a small jig under a bobber.
Rainbow Trout  Poor up to 20" Last trout stocking has occurred at Vic's Lake, Slough in multiple pools, and OJ Watson Park (Section with Dock and Fountain). A Trout Permit is no longer required but creel limit of 5/day is still in effect. Use floating dough baits, fliers, panfish jigs, worms, small spoons, or spinners.  
General Comments

Channel Catfish stockings have resumed! For locations and schedule, please visit https://ksoutdoors.com/Fishing/Special-Fishing-Programs-for-You/Urban-Fishing-Program 

White Perch are present at KDOT West, SG County Park Lakes, South Lake, and North Chisholm Lake. These are designated AIS waters, so no live fish can be transported from these locations INCLUDING SUNFISH FOR BAIT. In addition, no live white perch may be possessed, and anglers are encouraged to not release any caught back into the water. They taste similar to white bass!



WICHITA - URBAN FISHING REPORT - Last Updated: 5/2/2024

Species Rating Size Baits, Method & Location
       
Channel Catfish Good Up to 20" The majority of public fishing waters around the Wichita Metro Area are stocked regularly in the Spring and Fall with harvest-sized Channel Catfish. They can be easily caught on worms and hotdogs. 
Crappie Fair Up to 12" Try using minnows or a small jigs in deeper areas of the lakes. Crappie fishing is best at the KDOT Lakes, SG County Park, OJ Watson Park, and Chisholm North lake.
Largemouth Bass Fair Up to 18"  Largemouth Bass can be found in most Wichita area lakes but catching can be tough due to low populations and high angling pressure. Your best opportunities to catch bass are at the KDOT lakes, Emery Park, Vic's Lake, and Chisholm North lake. Between now and June is the best time to catch them. They will bite just about any type of lure on any given day. 
Bluegill Good Up to 8" Bluegill are present in every lake in the area. Try a small piece of worm or a small jig under a bobber.
Rainbow Trout  Poor up to 20" Last trout stocking has occurred at Vic's Lake, Slough in multiple pools, and OJ Watson Park (Section with Dock and Fountain). A Trout Permit is no longer required but creel limit of 5/day is still in effect. Use floating dough baits, fliers, panfish jigs, worms, small spoons, or spinners.  
General Comments

Channel Catfish stockings have resumed! For locations and schedule, please visit https://ksoutdoors.com/Fishing/Special-Fishing-Programs-for-You/Urban-Fishing-Program 

White Perch are present at KDOT West, SG County Park Lakes, South Lake, and North Chisholm Lake. These are designated AIS waters, so no live fish can be transported from these locations INCLUDING SUNFISH FOR BAIT. In addition, no live white perch may be possessed, and anglers are encouraged to not release any caught back into the water. They taste similar to white bass!



WICHITA - URBAN FISHING REPORT - Last Updated: 5/2/2024

Species Rating Size Baits, Method & Location
       
Channel Catfish Good Up to 20" The majority of public fishing waters around the Wichita Metro Area are stocked regularly in the Spring and Fall with harvest-sized Channel Catfish. They can be easily caught on worms and hotdogs. 
Crappie Fair Up to 12" Try using minnows or a small jigs in deeper areas of the lakes. Crappie fishing is best at the KDOT Lakes, SG County Park, OJ Watson Park, and Chisholm North lake.
Largemouth Bass Fair Up to 18"  Largemouth Bass can be found in most Wichita area lakes but catching can be tough due to low populations and high angling pressure. Your best opportunities to catch bass are at the KDOT lakes, Emery Park, Vic's Lake, and Chisholm North lake. Between now and June is the best time to catch them. They will bite just about any type of lure on any given day. 
Bluegill Good Up to 8" Bluegill are present in every lake in the area. Try a small piece of worm or a small jig under a bobber.
Rainbow Trout  Poor up to 20" Last trout stocking has occurred at Vic's Lake, Slough in multiple pools, and OJ Watson Park (Section with Dock and Fountain). A Trout Permit is no longer required but creel limit of 5/day is still in effect. Use floating dough baits, fliers, panfish jigs, worms, small spoons, or spinners.  
General Comments

Channel Catfish stockings have resumed! For locations and schedule, please visit https://ksoutdoors.com/Fishing/Special-Fishing-Programs-for-You/Urban-Fishing-Program 

White Perch are present at KDOT West, SG County Park Lakes, South Lake, and North Chisholm Lake. These are designated AIS waters, so no live fish can be transported from these locations INCLUDING SUNFISH FOR BAIT. In addition, no live white perch may be possessed, and anglers are encouraged to not release any caught back into the water. They taste similar to white bass!



WICHITA - URBAN FISHING REPORT - Last Updated: 5/2/2024

Species Rating Size Baits, Method & Location
       
Channel Catfish Good Up to 20" The majority of public fishing waters around the Wichita Metro Area are stocked regularly in the Spring and Fall with harvest-sized Channel Catfish. They can be easily caught on worms and hotdogs. 
Crappie Fair Up to 12" Try using minnows or a small jigs in deeper areas of the lakes. Crappie fishing is best at the KDOT Lakes, SG County Park, OJ Watson Park, and Chisholm North lake.
Largemouth Bass Fair Up to 18"  Largemouth Bass can be found in most Wichita area lakes but catching can be tough due to low populations and high angling pressure. Your best opportunities to catch bass are at the KDOT lakes, Emery Park, Vic's Lake, and Chisholm North lake. Between now and June is the best time to catch them. They will bite just about any type of lure on any given day. 
Bluegill Good Up to 8" Bluegill are present in every lake in the area. Try a small piece of worm or a small jig under a bobber.
Rainbow Trout  Poor up to 20" Last trout stocking has occurred at Vic's Lake, Slough in multiple pools, and OJ Watson Park (Section with Dock and Fountain). A Trout Permit is no longer required but creel limit of 5/day is still in effect. Use floating dough baits, fliers, panfish jigs, worms, small spoons, or spinners.  
General Comments

Channel Catfish stockings have resumed! For locations and schedule, please visit https://ksoutdoors.com/Fishing/Special-Fishing-Programs-for-You/Urban-Fishing-Program 

White Perch are present at KDOT West, SG County Park Lakes, South Lake, and North Chisholm Lake. These are designated AIS waters, so no live fish can be transported from these locations INCLUDING SUNFISH FOR BAIT. In addition, no live white perch may be possessed, and anglers are encouraged to not release any caught back into the water. They taste similar to white bass!



WICHITA - URBAN FISHING REPORT - Last Updated: 5/2/2024

Species Rating Size Baits, Method & Location
       
Channel Catfish Good Up to 20" The majority of public fishing waters around the Wichita Metro Area are stocked regularly in the Spring and Fall with harvest-sized Channel Catfish. They can be easily caught on worms and hotdogs. 
Crappie Fair Up to 12" Try using minnows or a small jigs in deeper areas of the lakes. Crappie fishing is best at the KDOT Lakes, SG County Park, OJ Watson Park, and Chisholm North lake.
Largemouth Bass Fair Up to 18"  Largemouth Bass can be found in most Wichita area lakes but catching can be tough due to low populations and high angling pressure. Your best opportunities to catch bass are at the KDOT lakes, Emery Park, Vic's Lake, and Chisholm North lake. Between now and June is the best time to catch them. They will bite just about any type of lure on any given day. 
Bluegill Good Up to 8" Bluegill are present in every lake in the area. Try a small piece of worm or a small jig under a bobber.
Rainbow Trout  Poor up to 20" Last trout stocking has occurred at Vic's Lake, Slough in multiple pools, and OJ Watson Park (Section with Dock and Fountain). A Trout Permit is no longer required but creel limit of 5/day is still in effect. Use floating dough baits, fliers, panfish jigs, worms, small spoons, or spinners.  
General Comments

Channel Catfish stockings have resumed! For locations and schedule, please visit https://ksoutdoors.com/Fishing/Special-Fishing-Programs-for-You/Urban-Fishing-Program 

White Perch are present at KDOT West, SG County Park Lakes, South Lake, and North Chisholm Lake. These are designated AIS waters, so no live fish can be transported from these locations INCLUDING SUNFISH FOR BAIT. In addition, no live white perch may be possessed, and anglers are encouraged to not release any caught back into the water. They taste similar to white bass!



WICHITA - URBAN FISHING REPORT - Last Updated: 5/2/2024

Species Rating Size Baits, Method & Location
       
Channel Catfish Good Up to 20" The majority of public fishing waters around the Wichita Metro Area are stocked regularly in the Spring and Fall with harvest-sized Channel Catfish. They can be easily caught on worms and hotdogs. 
Crappie Fair Up to 12" Try using minnows or a small jigs in deeper areas of the lakes. Crappie fishing is best at the KDOT Lakes, SG County Park, OJ Watson Park, and Chisholm North lake.
Largemouth Bass Fair Up to 18"  Largemouth Bass can be found in most Wichita area lakes but catching can be tough due to low populations and high angling pressure. Your best opportunities to catch bass are at the KDOT lakes, Emery Park, Vic's Lake, and Chisholm North lake. Between now and June is the best time to catch them. They will bite just about any type of lure on any given day. 
Bluegill Good Up to 8" Bluegill are present in every lake in the area. Try a small piece of worm or a small jig under a bobber.
Rainbow Trout  Poor up to 20" Last trout stocking has occurred at Vic's Lake, Slough in multiple pools, and OJ Watson Park (Section with Dock and Fountain). A Trout Permit is no longer required but creel limit of 5/day is still in effect. Use floating dough baits, fliers, panfish jigs, worms, small spoons, or spinners.  
General Comments

Channel Catfish stockings have resumed! For locations and schedule, please visit https://ksoutdoors.com/Fishing/Special-Fishing-Programs-for-You/Urban-Fishing-Program 

White Perch are present at KDOT West, SG County Park Lakes, South Lake, and North Chisholm Lake. These are designated AIS waters, so no live fish can be transported from these locations INCLUDING SUNFISH FOR BAIT. In addition, no live white perch may be possessed, and anglers are encouraged to not release any caught back into the water. They taste similar to white bass!



WICHITA - URBAN FISHING REPORT - Last Updated: 5/2/2024

Species Rating Size Baits, Method & Location
       
Channel Catfish Good Up to 20" The majority of public fishing waters around the Wichita Metro Area are stocked regularly in the Spring and Fall with harvest-sized Channel Catfish. They can be easily caught on worms and hotdogs. 
Crappie Fair Up to 12" Try using minnows or a small jigs in deeper areas of the lakes. Crappie fishing is best at the KDOT Lakes, SG County Park, OJ Watson Park, and Chisholm North lake.
Largemouth Bass Fair Up to 18"  Largemouth Bass can be found in most Wichita area lakes but catching can be tough due to low populations and high angling pressure. Your best opportunities to catch bass are at the KDOT lakes, Emery Park, Vic's Lake, and Chisholm North lake. Between now and June is the best time to catch them. They will bite just about any type of lure on any given day. 
Bluegill Good Up to 8" Bluegill are present in every lake in the area. Try a small piece of worm or a small jig under a bobber.
Rainbow Trout  Poor up to 20" Last trout stocking has occurred at Vic's Lake, Slough in multiple pools, and OJ Watson Park (Section with Dock and Fountain). A Trout Permit is no longer required but creel limit of 5/day is still in effect. Use floating dough baits, fliers, panfish jigs, worms, small spoons, or spinners.  
General Comments

Channel Catfish stockings have resumed! For locations and schedule, please visit https://ksoutdoors.com/Fishing/Special-Fishing-Programs-for-You/Urban-Fishing-Program 

White Perch are present at KDOT West, SG County Park Lakes, South Lake, and North Chisholm Lake. These are designated AIS waters, so no live fish can be transported from these locations INCLUDING SUNFISH FOR BAIT. In addition, no live white perch may be possessed, and anglers are encouraged to not release any caught back into the water. They taste similar to white bass!



WICHITA - URBAN FISHING REPORT - Last Updated: 5/2/2024

Species Rating Size Baits, Method & Location
       
Channel Catfish Good Up to 20" The majority of public fishing waters around the Wichita Metro Area are stocked regularly in the Spring and Fall with harvest-sized Channel Catfish. They can be easily caught on worms and hotdogs. 
Crappie Fair Up to 12" Try using minnows or a small jigs in deeper areas of the lakes. Crappie fishing is best at the KDOT Lakes, SG County Park, OJ Watson Park, and Chisholm North lake.
Largemouth Bass Fair Up to 18"  Largemouth Bass can be found in most Wichita area lakes but catching can be tough due to low populations and high angling pressure. Your best opportunities to catch bass are at the KDOT lakes, Emery Park, Vic's Lake, and Chisholm North lake. Between now and June is the best time to catch them. They will bite just about any type of lure on any given day. 
Bluegill Good Up to 8" Bluegill are present in every lake in the area. Try a small piece of worm or a small jig under a bobber.
Rainbow Trout  Poor up to 20" Last trout stocking has occurred at Vic's Lake, Slough in multiple pools, and OJ Watson Park (Section with Dock and Fountain). A Trout Permit is no longer required but creel limit of 5/day is still in effect. Use floating dough baits, fliers, panfish jigs, worms, small spoons, or spinners.  
General Comments

Channel Catfish stockings have resumed! For locations and schedule, please visit https://ksoutdoors.com/Fishing/Special-Fishing-Programs-for-You/Urban-Fishing-Program 

White Perch are present at KDOT West, SG County Park Lakes, South Lake, and North Chisholm Lake. These are designated AIS waters, so no live fish can be transported from these locations INCLUDING SUNFISH FOR BAIT. In addition, no live white perch may be possessed, and anglers are encouraged to not release any caught back into the water. They taste similar to white bass!



WICHITA - URBAN FISHING REPORT - Last Updated: 5/2/2024

Species Rating Size Baits, Method & Location
       
Channel Catfish Good Up to 20" The majority of public fishing waters around the Wichita Metro Area are stocked regularly in the Spring and Fall with harvest-sized Channel Catfish. They can be easily caught on worms and hotdogs. 
Crappie Fair Up to 12" Try using minnows or a small jigs in deeper areas of the lakes. Crappie fishing is best at the KDOT Lakes, SG County Park, OJ Watson Park, and Chisholm North lake.
Largemouth Bass Fair Up to 18"  Largemouth Bass can be found in most Wichita area lakes but catching can be tough due to low populations and high angling pressure. Your best opportunities to catch bass are at the KDOT lakes, Emery Park, Vic's Lake, and Chisholm North lake. Between now and June is the best time to catch them. They will bite just about any type of lure on any given day. 
Bluegill Good Up to 8" Bluegill are present in every lake in the area. Try a small piece of worm or a small jig under a bobber.
Rainbow Trout  Poor up to 20" Last trout stocking has occurred at Vic's Lake, Slough in multiple pools, and OJ Watson Park (Section with Dock and Fountain). A Trout Permit is no longer required but creel limit of 5/day is still in effect. Use floating dough baits, fliers, panfish jigs, worms, small spoons, or spinners.  
General Comments

Channel Catfish stockings have resumed! For locations and schedule, please visit https://ksoutdoors.com/Fishing/Special-Fishing-Programs-for-You/Urban-Fishing-Program 

White Perch are present at KDOT West, SG County Park Lakes, South Lake, and North Chisholm Lake. These are designated AIS waters, so no live fish can be transported from these locations INCLUDING SUNFISH FOR BAIT. In addition, no live white perch may be possessed, and anglers are encouraged to not release any caught back into the water. They taste similar to white bass!



WICHITA - URBAN FISHING REPORT - Last Updated: 5/2/2024

Species Rating Size Baits, Method & Location
       
Channel Catfish Good Up to 20" The majority of public fishing waters around the Wichita Metro Area are stocked regularly in the Spring and Fall with harvest-sized Channel Catfish. They can be easily caught on worms and hotdogs. 
Crappie Fair Up to 12" Try using minnows or a small jigs in deeper areas of the lakes. Crappie fishing is best at the KDOT Lakes, SG County Park, OJ Watson Park, and Chisholm North lake.
Largemouth Bass Fair Up to 18"  Largemouth Bass can be found in most Wichita area lakes but catching can be tough due to low populations and high angling pressure. Your best opportunities to catch bass are at the KDOT lakes, Emery Park, Vic's Lake, and Chisholm North lake. Between now and June is the best time to catch them. They will bite just about any type of lure on any given day. 
Bluegill Good Up to 8" Bluegill are present in every lake in the area. Try a small piece of worm or a small jig under a bobber.
Rainbow Trout  Poor up to 20" Last trout stocking has occurred at Vic's Lake, Slough in multiple pools, and OJ Watson Park (Section with Dock and Fountain). A Trout Permit is no longer required but creel limit of 5/day is still in effect. Use floating dough baits, fliers, panfish jigs, worms, small spoons, or spinners.  
General Comments

Channel Catfish stockings have resumed! For locations and schedule, please visit https://ksoutdoors.com/Fishing/Special-Fishing-Programs-for-You/Urban-Fishing-Program 

White Perch are present at KDOT West, SG County Park Lakes, South Lake, and North Chisholm Lake. These are designated AIS waters, so no live fish can be transported from these locations INCLUDING SUNFISH FOR BAIT. In addition, no live white perch may be possessed, and anglers are encouraged to not release any caught back into the water. They taste similar to white bass!



WICHITA - URBAN FISHING REPORT - Last Updated: 5/2/2024

Species Rating Size Baits, Method & Location
       
Channel Catfish Good Up to 20" The majority of public fishing waters around the Wichita Metro Area are stocked regularly in the Spring and Fall with harvest-sized Channel Catfish. They can be easily caught on worms and hotdogs. 
Crappie Fair Up to 12" Try using minnows or a small jigs in deeper areas of the lakes. Crappie fishing is best at the KDOT Lakes, SG County Park, OJ Watson Park, and Chisholm North lake.
Largemouth Bass Fair Up to 18"  Largemouth Bass can be found in most Wichita area lakes but catching can be tough due to low populations and high angling pressure. Your best opportunities to catch bass are at the KDOT lakes, Emery Park, Vic's Lake, and Chisholm North lake. Between now and June is the best time to catch them. They will bite just about any type of lure on any given day. 
Bluegill Good Up to 8" Bluegill are present in every lake in the area. Try a small piece of worm or a small jig under a bobber.
Rainbow Trout  Poor up to 20" Last trout stocking has occurred at Vic's Lake, Slough in multiple pools, and OJ Watson Park (Section with Dock and Fountain). A Trout Permit is no longer required but creel limit of 5/day is still in effect. Use floating dough baits, fliers, panfish jigs, worms, small spoons, or spinners.  
General Comments

Channel Catfish stockings have resumed! For locations and schedule, please visit https://ksoutdoors.com/Fishing/Special-Fishing-Programs-for-You/Urban-Fishing-Program 

White Perch are present at KDOT West, SG County Park Lakes, South Lake, and North Chisholm Lake. These are designated AIS waters, so no live fish can be transported from these locations INCLUDING SUNFISH FOR BAIT. In addition, no live white perch may be possessed, and anglers are encouraged to not release any caught back into the water. They taste similar to white bass!



WICHITA - URBAN FISHING REPORT - Last Updated: 5/2/2024

Species Rating Size Baits, Method & Location
       
Channel Catfish Good Up to 20" The majority of public fishing waters around the Wichita Metro Area are stocked regularly in the Spring and Fall with harvest-sized Channel Catfish. They can be easily caught on worms and hotdogs. 
Crappie Fair Up to 12" Try using minnows or a small jigs in deeper areas of the lakes. Crappie fishing is best at the KDOT Lakes, SG County Park, OJ Watson Park, and Chisholm North lake.
Largemouth Bass Fair Up to 18"  Largemouth Bass can be found in most Wichita area lakes but catching can be tough due to low populations and high angling pressure. Your best opportunities to catch bass are at the KDOT lakes, Emery Park, Vic's Lake, and Chisholm North lake. Between now and June is the best time to catch them. They will bite just about any type of lure on any given day. 
Bluegill Good Up to 8" Bluegill are present in every lake in the area. Try a small piece of worm or a small jig under a bobber.
Rainbow Trout  Poor up to 20" Last trout stocking has occurred at Vic's Lake, Slough in multiple pools, and OJ Watson Park (Section with Dock and Fountain). A Trout Permit is no longer required but creel limit of 5/day is still in effect. Use floating dough baits, fliers, panfish jigs, worms, small spoons, or spinners.  
General Comments

Channel Catfish stockings have resumed! For locations and schedule, please visit https://ksoutdoors.com/Fishing/Special-Fishing-Programs-for-You/Urban-Fishing-Program 

White Perch are present at KDOT West, SG County Park Lakes, South Lake, and North Chisholm Lake. These are designated AIS waters, so no live fish can be transported from these locations INCLUDING SUNFISH FOR BAIT. In addition, no live white perch may be possessed, and anglers are encouraged to not release any caught back into the water. They taste similar to white bass!



WICHITA - URBAN FISHING REPORT - Last Updated: 5/2/2024

Species Rating Size Baits, Method & Location
       
Channel Catfish Good Up to 20" The majority of public fishing waters around the Wichita Metro Area are stocked regularly in the Spring and Fall with harvest-sized Channel Catfish. They can be easily caught on worms and hotdogs. 
Crappie Fair Up to 12" Try using minnows or a small jigs in deeper areas of the lakes. Crappie fishing is best at the KDOT Lakes, SG County Park, OJ Watson Park, and Chisholm North lake.
Largemouth Bass Fair Up to 18"  Largemouth Bass can be found in most Wichita area lakes but catching can be tough due to low populations and high angling pressure. Your best opportunities to catch bass are at the KDOT lakes, Emery Park, Vic's Lake, and Chisholm North lake. Between now and June is the best time to catch them. They will bite just about any type of lure on any given day. 
Bluegill Good Up to 8" Bluegill are present in every lake in the area. Try a small piece of worm or a small jig under a bobber.
Rainbow Trout  Poor up to 20" Last trout stocking has occurred at Vic's Lake, Slough in multiple pools, and OJ Watson Park (Section with Dock and Fountain). A Trout Permit is no longer required but creel limit of 5/day is still in effect. Use floating dough baits, fliers, panfish jigs, worms, small spoons, or spinners.  
General Comments

Channel Catfish stockings have resumed! For locations and schedule, please visit https://ksoutdoors.com/Fishing/Special-Fishing-Programs-for-You/Urban-Fishing-Program 

White Perch are present at KDOT West, SG County Park Lakes, South Lake, and North Chisholm Lake. These are designated AIS waters, so no live fish can be transported from these locations INCLUDING SUNFISH FOR BAIT. In addition, no live white perch may be possessed, and anglers are encouraged to not release any caught back into the water. They taste similar to white bass!



WICHITA - URBAN FISHING REPORT - Last Updated: 5/2/2024

Species Rating Size Baits, Method & Location
       
Channel Catfish Good Up to 20" The majority of public fishing waters around the Wichita Metro Area are stocked regularly in the Spring and Fall with harvest-sized Channel Catfish. They can be easily caught on worms and hotdogs. 
Crappie Fair Up to 12" Try using minnows or a small jigs in deeper areas of the lakes. Crappie fishing is best at the KDOT Lakes, SG County Park, OJ Watson Park, and Chisholm North lake.
Largemouth Bass Fair Up to 18"  Largemouth Bass can be found in most Wichita area lakes but catching can be tough due to low populations and high angling pressure. Your best opportunities to catch bass are at the KDOT lakes, Emery Park, Vic's Lake, and Chisholm North lake. Between now and June is the best time to catch them. They will bite just about any type of lure on any given day. 
Bluegill Good Up to 8" Bluegill are present in every lake in the area. Try a small piece of worm or a small jig under a bobber.
Rainbow Trout  Poor up to 20" Last trout stocking has occurred at Vic's Lake, Slough in multiple pools, and OJ Watson Park (Section with Dock and Fountain). A Trout Permit is no longer required but creel limit of 5/day is still in effect. Use floating dough baits, fliers, panfish jigs, worms, small spoons, or spinners.  
General Comments

Channel Catfish stockings have resumed! For locations and schedule, please visit https://ksoutdoors.com/Fishing/Special-Fishing-Programs-for-You/Urban-Fishing-Program 

White Perch are present at KDOT West, SG County Park Lakes, South Lake, and North Chisholm Lake. These are designated AIS waters, so no live fish can be transported from these locations INCLUDING SUNFISH FOR BAIT. In addition, no live white perch may be possessed, and anglers are encouraged to not release any caught back into the water. They taste similar to white bass!



WINFIELD CITY LAKE - Last Updated: 5/7/2024

Species Rating Size Baits, Method, and Location
Zebra Mussels    

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!!!

Crappie Fair 9-12 inches In shallow cover near shore on jigs or minnows under a float.  Spawning activity is picking up.
Channel catfish Fair up to 22 inch Shad sides or fresh cut shad fished on wind blown shorelines is a great later winter/early spring cat tactic.

Largemouth bass

Smallmouth bass

 Fair up to 18 inch Largemouth are being found in flooded vegetation in the coves and smallmouth are on rocky points and shorelines.  Jerkbaits, crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and plastics have all produced fish.
White bass Fair 10 - 14 inch Look for wipers and white bass on shallow wind blown points on warm days.  White curly tailed grubs, small lipless crankbaits, and roadrunners are good selections.
Wiper Fair up to 24 inch Same as white bass
Walleye    

Walleye minimum length limit 18 inches.

Fish have moved to deeper water for a couple weeks before moving to the north shore flats and points.  Fishing will improve once the walleye move on to the points and flats.

    
General Comments

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 1.7 ft low



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