Fishing Lake Manitou
Popular Fish Species Lake Manitou, IN
Lake Trout Fishing
Year round, fishing for lake trout in Lake Manitou is often quite good and the fish are plentiful. These large trout prefer water below 60 degrees, however they can be caught from as shallow as 15 to 30 feet in Spring and Fall, to as deep as 150 feet or more during Summer and Winter. It is a monumental assistance to use fish finders, or other electronics to help in locating these roaming schools of lake trout. They feed on baitfish and other small fish, so jigs rigged to imitate their prey often work well straight down under the boat. Trolling with numerous set-ups can also produce good catches.
Largemouth Bass Fishing
Lake Manitou is considered an excellent bass fishing lake, as it has been for multiple years now. Anglers are catching bass in good numbers with largemouth bass in the 3 to 4-pound range showing up with some regularity. A history of careful fisheries management by the Indiana DNR, Fish & Wildlife has helped to maintain a thriving bass fishery. Recent results by bass fishing tournament participants, attest to the fact that fishing for largemouth bass has been quite rewarding, with an occasional bass over 6 pounds being weighed in. In Lake Manitou, bass often move shallow and become fairly aggressive when they are in a feeding mood. If they seem disinterested in your presentations, try slowing down and use smaller, lighter baits. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap. Around grass, use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In deeper water, drop shot rigs, big worms, jigs and spoons are good options. In winter, spend your time fishing deeper structure where the bass spend much of their time.
Yellow Perch Fishing
Yellow perch are great table fare, and are a food source for many predator fish in the lake. Yellow perch tend to spawn in the April to May timeframe, and the spawn has been strong for years at Lake Manitou. As a result, the lake continues to maintain a very healthy population of yellow perch, which have been a mainstay in the fishery for decades. Fishing for yellow perch is simple, their primary diet consists of minnows and other small fish, insects and worms. Yellow perch tend to gather in small groups and hang out on relatively deep structure, near cover and/or drop-offs. Use a small hook and sinker. Bait a small hook with minnows, worms or small jigs using 6 to 10 pound line.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, black crappie, bluegill, warmouth, yellow perch and northern pike at Lake Manitou in Indiana.
Lake Manitou Fishing Video
A medium size lake in north central Indiana, Lake Manitou offers several species for fishing as well as boating, jet skiing, water skiing, swimming, and picnicking. Located on the southeast outskirts of Rochester, IN, there is easy access to lodging, dining and shopping. The lake is very scenic and tranquil with lots of "fishy" looking water. The best fishing is from a boat, but there is ample shoreline fishing available as well, including a handicap fishing pier near the dam.
Lake Manitou, located in Rochester, Indiana, is a hidden gem for fishing enthusiasts seeking a peaceful and productive angling experience. This 775-acre lake is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, making it a popular destination among local anglers.
Lake Manitou is home to a variety of fish species, with popular catches including largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and walleye. With such a diverse fish population, anglers of all skill levels can enjoy a rewarding day on the water.
Primary fish species residing in Manitou Lake
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Lake Manitou Amenities
Marina: NO
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: TWO
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: NEARBY
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boating is a favored activity at Lake Manitou, providing visitors with the opportunity to explore the expansive lake and enjoy various water-based activities. Boaters can cruise around the lake, take in the scenic beauty of the surrounding landscape, and participate in water sports such as water skiing or tubing. The lake offers boat ramps for easy access, ensuring that boaters can enjoy their time on the water to the fullest.
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Lake Manitou Public Access
Located in the northwest corner of the lake, off Highway 14, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
Fishing Guides On Lake Manitou
If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.
Fishing License
Click here for a Indiana Fishing License.
While camping is not directly available at Lake Manitou, there are nearby campgrounds and parks that provide camping facilities. These campgrounds offer a range of options, from primitive tent camping to RV camping with modern amenities. Camping enthusiasts can still enjoy the serene atmosphere, wake up to breathtaking views, and have convenient access to fishing and boating activities during their stay.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
Lakevierw Campground - 574 353-8114
Lake Manitou, IN Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Lake Manitou
Lakeview Campground
7781 E 300 N
Rochester, IN 46975
574 353-8114
Fishing lakes in each state.
072524
Lake Manitou in Indiana.
INDIANA
Northern pike, sunfish and bass fishing in north-central IN.
