Fishing At Clinton Lake

AKA: Clinton Reservoir

What to fish for...

Guide to fishing for smallmouth bass, channel catfish, blue catfish, white crappie, walleye, white bass and hybrid striped bass at Clinton Lake in Kansas.

Located on the southwest outskirts of Lawrence, Clinton Lake is an easy destination for boating and fishing enthusiasts. The 7,000-acre lake has decent populations of bass, crappie, hybrid stripers, white bass and catfish.

Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Rental Boats
Boat Launch Ramps
Marinas
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Lake Video
Contact Info

Clinton Lake, located in Kansas, is a popular destination for anglers seeking a diverse fishing experience. This picturesque lake offers a variety of fish species, making it a favorite spot for both recreational and avid anglers.

Smallmouth bass are highly sought after in Clinton Lake. These feisty fish provide an exciting challenge, known for their aggressive strikes and powerful fights. Anglers can target smallmouth bass by casting with crankbaits, jigs, or soft plastics near rocky shorelines, points, or submerged structures. Clinton Lake's clear waters and rocky habitat make it an ideal environment for smallmouth bass to thrive.

Hybrid stripers are another prized fish species found in Clinton Lake. These hybrid crosses between striped bass and white bass exhibit the best characteristics of both species, including size and fighting ability. Anglers targeting hybrid stripers can enjoy exhilarating battles and the chance to catch trophy-sized fish. Trolling with crankbaits or casting with swimbaits are effective methods for enticing these aggressive predators.

Catfish, including channel catfish and blue catfish, are abundant in Clinton Lake. Anglers can target catfish by fishing near rocky areas, submerged structures, or creek channels using a variety of baits, such as cut bait, stink bait, or live bait. Clinton Lake's ample catfish population provides opportunities for both quantity and size, making it a popular destination for catfish enthusiasts.

White bass and crappie are also popular species found in Clinton Lake. Anglers can target white bass by casting with jigs, spoons, or crankbaits, particularly during their spring spawning runs. Crappie can be caught by vertical jigging near submerged structures or brush piles. These panfish species offer anglers additional options for a successful day on the water.

Clinton Lake not only provides excellent fishing opportunities but also offers amenities for boating and camping. Anglers can explore the lake's expansive waters, allowing them to access various fishing spots and navigate with ease. The lake's campgrounds and recreational facilities provide convenient options for anglers looking to extend their stay and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area.

With its abundance of fish species, including smallmouth bass, hybrid stripers, catfish, white bass, and crappie, Clinton Lake offers a diverse and rewarding fishing experience. Whether it's the thrill of battling a smallmouth bass, the excitement of reeling in a hybrid striper, or the joy of catching panfish, Clinton Lake is a prime destination for anglers of all skill levels.

Several campgrounds along with general, public-access areas around the lake provide access for fishing from the bank. Canoes, kayaks, car-toppers, pleasure boats, pontoons and fishing boats are all popular ways to explore the 85 miles of shoreline. Boat ramp #2 is ADA accessible. A marina, restaurants, camping, lodging, convenience stores and fishing tackle are all at, or nearby the lake.

Primary fish species residing in Clinton Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Clinton Lake Amenities

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

Today's Weather & Forecast

Fishing Boat Rentals

Clinton Marina
Rentals: Pontoon boats
785 749-3222

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Clinton Lake Boat Ramp #4
Located mid lake, on the south side of the lake, off E 600 Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Clinton Lake Boat Ramp #5 & #6
Located mid lake, on the south side of the lake, off E 700 Road, this is a two, six-lane, concrete ramps with docks and paved parking.

Clinton Lake Boat Ramp #7
Located mid lake, on the south side of the lake, off N 1190 Road, this is a six-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.

Clinton Lake NW Kayak Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northwest corner of the lake, off E 400 Road, this is a portage area with gravel parking.

Clinton Marina Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast section of the lake, off E 800 Road, this is a four-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.

Coon Creek Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, on the north side of the lake, off E 550 Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

East 800 Road Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast section of the lake, off E 800 Road, this is a four-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.

Rock Creek Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, on the south side of the lake, off N 978 Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with gravel parking.