Fishing Hardy Lake

AKA: Quick Creek Reservoir

Most Popular Fish
Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boat Launch Ramps
Local Fishing Guides
Hardy Lake Fishing Video
Fishing License
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Contact Info

Hardy Lake, IN

Popular Fish Species Hardy Lake, IN

Largemouth Bass

While Hardy Lake is not one of the top lakes in the state for largemouth bass fishing, there are still bass to be caught. Lately the fishing has been improving. A number of big bass, some exceeding 5 pounds are still roaming around in Hardy Lake. When the bite is good, bass are typically shallow and aggressive. If you find them shallow and they are not tempted to bite, slow down and use smaller, lighter baits. Fishing for largemouth bass is good virtually any time they are shallow - in spring, mornings in summer, and during warm Fall afternoons. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap. Around grass use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In deeper water, big worms, jigs and spoons are three good weapons. In winter, spend your time fishing Hardy Lake on deeper structure where the bass spend much of their time.

Black Crappie

Black crappie reside in good numbers throughout Hardy Lake, and they are averaging a very good size this year. Crappie fishing is very good and they are running in sizeable schools. Live bait and small jigs are the most common method for crappie here. Crappie always like cover and structure, so locate brush and vegetation. Using a fish finder can help locate schools of crappie, which tend to stack vertically around cover. In spring and fall focus on the 8 to 12 foot range. As the crappie move deep in summer and winter, follow points out deep, as well as find ledges near channels in deeper water. White crappie, in smaller numbers, also make this lake their home.

Channel Catfish

A substantial number of channel catfish populate the waters of Hardy Lake, they can be found all around the lake, and many are growing to bragging size. Night fishing for channel catfish often delivers better results than fishing during the day. In Spring channel catfish migrate toward incoming water, so stay up river away from the main lake.In early summer look for rocky banks, the bigger the rocks the better. In summer and winter deeper structure is where to look. The river end of the lake is often the area where the bigger catfish are caught. Fishing for channel catfish is often productive around any kind of structure in the area. Road beds, creek channels and rocky points are all good places to begin. Use a slip sinker or Carolina rig with popular catfish baits. Flathead catfish and blue catfish also reside in the lake and fishing for them is often good as well.

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, channel catfish, black crappie, walleye, bluegill, redear sunfish, muskie, northern pike and tiger muskie at Hardy Lake in Indiana.

This 740 acre reservoir is controlled by the Hardy Lake State Recreation Area. Not built for flood control, Hardy Lake remains full year round. As a result, the lake has a healthy population of fish, of many varieties. This SRA offers hiking, swimming, boating, skiing and camping. Food, bait and tackle, boat rentals and lodging is not available at the lake.

Hardy Lake, nestled in southern Indiana, is a hidden gem for fishing enthusiasts seeking a peaceful and scenic angling experience. Spanning over 2,400 acres, this reservoir offers abundant fishing opportunities for both recreational and experienced anglers.

Hardy Lake is known for its diverse fish population, including popular species such as largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, catfish, and walleye. Anglers can enjoy casting their lines from the shore or venture out onto the water in a boat to find their favorite fishing spots.

Primary fish species residing in Lake Hardy

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Hardy Lake (Quick Creek Reservoir) Amenities

Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: NO
Convenience Store: NO
Bait & Tackle: NO
Restaurant: NO

Today's Weather & Forecast

Boating is also a popular activity at Hardy Lake, providing visitors with a chance to explore the expansive waters and admire the picturesque surroundings. Whether you prefer leisurely cruising, water skiing, or simply enjoying a peaceful day on a pontoon boat, Hardy Lake offers a serene setting for various water activities. Boat ramps are available, making it convenient for boaters to access the lake and enjoy their chosen water adventures.

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

East Harrod Road Boat Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, off East Harrod Road, this is a single-lane, concrete ramp with paved parking.

North Sunnyside Road Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northwest corner of the lake, off North Sunnyside Road, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.

Fishing Guides On Hardy Lake

If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.

Hardy Lake Fishing Video

Fishing License

Click here for a Indiana Fishing License.

For those looking to extend their fishing adventure or enjoy a peaceful camping trip, Hardy Lake provides camping facilities near its shores. Campgrounds offer both primitive and modern camping options, allowing visitors to choose the level of comfort that suits their preferences. Camping near Hardy Lake provides a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in nature, wake up to stunning lake views, and have convenient access to fishing and boating activities throughout their stay.