Fishing At Lake Koshkonong

AKA: Koshkonong Lake

What to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, black crappie, white crappie, walleye, bluegill, pumpkinseed sunfish, rock bass, yellow perch, musky, northern pike and tiger musky at Lake Koshkonong in Wisconsin.

Trolling for walleye and white bass is very popular at Lake Koshkonong. Other species residing here include largemouth and smallmouth bass, pike, crappie, musky, perch, catfish and sunfish.

Lake Video
Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Rental Boats
Boat Launch Ramps
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 Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, 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

Lake Koshkonong is a popular fishing destination located in southern Wisconsin, primarily in Rock County. As one of the largest inland lakes in the state, it offers a wide range of fishing opportunities for anglers of all skill levels.

Largemouth and smallmouth bass are highly sought-after species in Lake Koshkonong. Anglers can target these bass species using a variety of techniques, including casting soft plastics, working topwater lures, or trolling with crankbaits. The lake's extensive shoreline and submerged structures provide excellent habitat for bass, making it an ideal spot for bass fishing enthusiasts.

Walleye is another prized fish species found in Lake Koshkonong. Known for their elusive nature, walleye can be challenging to catch but rewarding for those who are successful. Trolling with crankbaits, jigging with live bait, or using bottom bouncers are common techniques employed by anglers targeting walleye in the lake.

Muskie, also known as muskellunge, is a popular gamefish species in Lake Koshkonong. These large and aggressive predators offer anglers an exciting challenge. Casting large artificial baits, such as bucktail spinners or jerkbaits, along weed beds, and rock structures can entice muskie strikes. Proper equipment and handling techniques are important when targeting these powerful fish.

Lake Koshkonong is also known for its panfish species, including white crappie, black crappie, channel catfish, northern pike, yellow perch, and bluegill. These species provide opportunities for anglers seeking a relaxing day of fishing and a tasty meal. Crappie and bluegill are commonly targeted by anglers using small jigs, live bait, or bobber rigs.

Lake Koshkonong in southern Wisconsin provides a diverse fishery with popular species such as largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, walleye, muskie, white crappie, black crappie, channel catfish, northern pike, yellow perch, and bluegill. With its abundant fishing opportunities, boating options, and camping facilities, Lake Koshkonong offers a complete outdoor experience for anglers and nature lovers alike.

There are more than 20 miles of shoreline, yet the lake is relatively shallow, with a maximum depth of 7 feet. However, this 10,500-acre body of water offers plenty of room for boating and fishing. Located in the southeast part of the state, it has easy access from Interstate 90 on the west and Highway 26 on the east side. Access for fishing from the bank is limited, but there are rental boats available in season, and boat launch ramps open to the public.

Primary fish species residing in Lake Koshkonong

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Lake Koshkonong Amenities

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

Today's Weather & Forecast

Apart from fishing, Lake Koshkonong offers a variety of boating and camping opportunities. Anglers can enjoy cruising the lake's expansive waters, water skiing, or engaging in other water sports activities. The lake has public boat ramps and marinas for convenient access. Camping facilities around the lake allow anglers and outdoor enthusiasts to extend their stay and make the most of their time in the area.

Fishing Boat Rentals

Floating Toy Boat Rentals
Rentals: Pontoon boats
608 921-9453

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Groeler Road Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, east side, at the south end of the Highway 26 Bridge, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Newville Public Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest corner of the lake, on the Rock River, off E Ellendale Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.

Royce-Dalman Park Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest section of the lake, south side, off N Charley Bluff Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Click here for a Wisconsin Fishing License.