Fishing At Kanopolis Lake In 2024
AKA: Kanopolis Reservoir
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, channel catfish, white crappie, walleye, saugeye, rainbow trout, bluegill, white bass and hybrid striped bass at Kanopolis Lake in Kansas.
Pick your favorite fresh-water fish species and you'll probably find it at Kanopolis Lake This 3,400-acre lake in the central part of the state, has crappie, trout, bass, catfish, sunfish, white bass and wipers.
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
Kanopolis Lake, located in central Kansas, is a popular fishing destination that offers anglers a diverse range of fishing opportunities. The lake is known for its scenic beauty and ample fish populations, attracting anglers of all skill levels.
Rainbow trout is one of the most sought-after species in Kanopolis Lake. The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism stocks the lake with rainbow trout during the colder months, providing anglers with exciting trout fishing opportunities. Anglers can target rainbow trout using a variety of baits such as PowerBait, worms, or small spinners. The trout fishing season at Kanopolis Lake is eagerly anticipated by anglers who enjoy the challenge of catching these beautiful and delicious fish.
Largemouth bass are another popular species found in Kanopolis 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. Kanopolis Lake's favorable habitat provides ample opportunities to catch quality-sized largemouth bass, making it a favorite spot for bass anglers.
Walleye is another prized fish species found in Kanopolis Lake. Anglers can target walleye by trolling with crankbaits, casting with jigs, or drifting with live bait along the lake's drop-offs, rocky points, or submerged structures. Successful walleye fishing at Kanopolis Lake often requires knowledge of the lake's structure and the use of techniques that appeal to these predator fish. Catching a walleye at Kanopolis Lake can be a rewarding experience for any angler.
Channel catfish are abundant in Kanopolis Lake, providing anglers with excellent opportunities for catfishing. These bottom-dwelling fish can be targeted using a variety of baits such as cut bait, stink bait, or live bait. Fishing near the lake's deeper areas, including channels and drop-offs, can increase the chances of landing a catfish. Kanopolis Lake's catfish population offers both quantity and quality catches, making it an ideal destination for catfish enthusiasts.
White bass, bluegill, white crappie, and saugeye are additional popular species found in Kanopolis Lake. White bass can be caught by casting with jigs, spoons, or crankbaits, particularly during their spring spawning runs. Bluegill and white crappie provide enjoyable panfishing opportunities, and anglers can target them using small hooks and bait near submerged structures or brush piles. Saugeye, a hybrid cross between walleye and sauger, offer anglers the chance to catch hard-fighting and tasty fish.
The lake level often fluctuates considerably, but when full has over 40 miles of shoreline with a wide variety of cover for fish to inhabit. Rocky shorelines, timber, brush and flats all hold fish at different times of the year. A marina, boat ramps, campgrounds, supplies and lodging are all located at, or close by the lake.
Primary fish species residing in Kanopolis Lake
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Kanopolis Lake Amenities
Marina: YES
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: NEARBY
Bait & Tackle: NEARBY
Restaurant: NEARBY
Today's Weather & Forecast
Kanopolis Lake not only provides excellent fishing opportunities 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 immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area.
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Buzzard Bay Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, east side, off Horsethief Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with gravel parking.
Horsethief Canyon Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast section of the lake, off Horsethief Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with gravel parking.
Marinas
Hart Marina
100 Marina Drive
Marquette, KS 67464
785 787-7286
Click here for a Kansas Fishing License.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
Rockwall Campground - 785 546-2565
Kanopolis Lake Venango Campground - 785 546-2294
Kanopolis Lake KS Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Kanopolis Lake
Kanopolis Lake State Park
200 Horsethief Rd
Marquette, KS 67464
785 546-2565
Fishing lakes in each state.
Kanopolis Lake in KS
KANSAS
Fishing for monster crappies and big walleye-saugeye in central KS.