Fishing At Lake Mendota

AKA: Mendota Reservoir

What to fish for...

Fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, black crappie, white crappie, walleye, bluegill, green sunfish, pumpkinseed sunfish, rock bass, white bass, yellow perch, musky and northern pike at Lake Mendota in Wisconsin.

Bragging size smallmouth, walleye and northern pike attract anglers to Lake Mendota for traditional fishing in warm months and ice fishing during the really cold months. Additionally, this 10,000-acre lake has populations of largemouth bass, catfish, crappie, muskie, white bass, perch and sunfish. Mendota Lake is conveniently located in the south-central part of the state, at Madison. For anglers and outdoor enthusiasts there is over 21 miles of shoreline to explore and fish. Access to the shore for bank fishing is via a dozen or so parks and boat landings around the lake. Boat rentals, including fishing boats, pleasure boats, pontoons, canoes, kayaks and jet skis are available at a half dozen places. Marinas, stores, lodging, restaurants, camping and most amenities are available at or near the lake.

Primary fish species residing in Lake Mendota

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Lake Mendota 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

Fishing Boat Rentals

Marshall Boats
Rentals: Pontoon boats and kayaks
608 228-8333

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Marshall Park Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, off Allen Blvd, this is a four-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.

Mendota Park Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, northwest side, off County Park Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Spring Harbor Park Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest section of the lake, off Lake Mendota Drive, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and no parking.

Tenney Park Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast section of the lake, off Sherman Avenue, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.

Warner Park Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, east side, off Woodward Drive, this is a four-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.