Fishing At Hillsdale Lake

AKA: Hillsdale Reservoir

What to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, channel catfish, blue catfish, white crappie, bluegill, redear sunfish and white bass at Hillsdale Lake in Kansas.

Fishing is one of the major draws at Hillsdale Lake, a 5,400-acre lake in the northeast part of the state. In addition, camping, swimming and water sports attract outdoor enthusiasts.

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

The purpose of this page is to deliver an overview of this lake, the fishing options, and area amenities. Our goal is to provide info to first time visitors, as well as beginner and novice anglers. We gathered details from personal experience, numerous trusted websites that each offer select bits of information, and videos of fishing activity on the lake. These websites include the Kansas Department of Wildlife & Parks, marinas at the lake, campgrounds, boat rental agencies and others. By consolidating this information to one page it allows visitors to see the entire picture, all in one place.

Lake Video

Hillsdale Lake, located in the eastern section of Kansas, is a premier fishing destination known for its scenic beauty and diverse fish populations. Anglers flock to Hillsdale Lake to experience the thrill of fishing and to target a variety of popular fish species.

Largemouth bass is one of the primary game fish found in Hillsdale Lake. Anglers can target these hard-fighting fish by casting with soft plastics, crankbaits, or topwater lures near submerged structures, rocky points, or weed beds. Hillsdale Lake's favorable habitat provides ample opportunities to catch quality-sized largemouth bass, making it a favorite spot for bass anglers.

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

Blue catfish, known for their impressive size and fighting ability, are also found in Hillsdale Lake. These powerful fish can provide anglers with thrilling battles. Anglers targeting blue catfish often use cut bait or live bait and fish near the lake's channels or deep holes. Catching a trophy-sized blue catfish is a memorable experience for any angler.

White bass, bluegill, and white crappie are additional popular species found in Hillsdale Lake. White bass can be caught by casting with jigs, spoons, or crankbaits, particularly during their spring spawning runs. Bluegill, known for their aggressive nature, offer anglers enjoyable panfishing opportunities. White crappie can be targeted by vertical jigging near submerged structures or brush piles. These panfish species provide additional angling options and can be caught using a variety of baits and techniques.

Fishing enthusiasts can explore over 50 miles of shoreline in search of bass, catfish, crappie, sunfish and white bass. Walleye and crappie are the most popular targets. There are three boat launch ramps from which to choose. Hillsdale State Park, Antioch, and Jayhawk Marina all have launch ramps accessible to the public. Nearby these boat ramps are areas with access for fishing from the bank, and portage of canoes and kayaks.

Primary fish species residing in Hillsdale Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Hillsdale 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: NEARBY

Today's Weather & Forecast

Hillsdale Lake is not only a haven for anglers but also offers amenities for boating and camping. Anglers can explore the lake's expansive waters, navigate with ease, and access various fishing spots. The lake's campgrounds and recreational facilities provide convenient options for anglers looking to extend their stay and enjoy the outdoor experience.

Fishing Boat Rentals

Jayhawk Marina
Rentals: Fishing boats and pontoon boats
913 557-9900

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Antioch Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northwest section of the lake, north side, off Waverly Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Cedar Cove Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast section of the lake, west side, off Cedar Niles Road, this is a multi-lane, earthen ramp with gravel parking.

Hillsdale State Park Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest section of the lake, off State Park Campground Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Jayhawk Marina Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest corner of the lake, off Lake Road, this is a five-lane, concrete ramp with docks and lots of paved parking.

Marysville Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, east side, off Orleans Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.

Orleans Road Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, on the north side of the lake, off Orleans Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Waverly Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, at the north end of the Waverly Road Bridge, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with gravel parking.