Fishing Lake Koshkonong

AKA: Koshkonong Lake

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

Lake Koshkonong, WI

Popular Fish Species Lake Koshkonong, WI

Muskie Fishing

Fishing for muskellunge in Lake Koshkonong could provide a trophy fish on any given cast. Giant musky roam these waters and are aggressive eaters. Muskie fishing can bring some exciting moments to your fishing day, as big muskies are spectacular, and strong fighters. Use a strong rod in medium- to medium-heavy action, with heavy line - 20# or heavier. Because of their sharp teeth, steel leaders are highly recommended. Muskie have a big mouth so use big baits, same baits you would use for bass but in larger sizes. Topwater, spinnerbaits, crankbaits and jerkbaits all work well for hungry muskie. The best time of year to chase these big fish is Spring, and then again in Fall as the water temperature starts cooling. When the lake freezes over in winter, ice fishing for musky can be very exhilarating. Use GPS to locate spots you normally find muskie during summer.

Lake Koshkonong Popular Fish - White Bass

White Bass Fishing

White bass are aggressive, hard-fighting and just plain fun to catch. Numerous successful spawn years have increased the population of white bass in Lake Koshkonong, and anglers can expect some great fishing this year. When fishing for white bass, the average fish is typically in the one- to two-pound range. These schooling fish tend to roam around the lake looking for ideal water conditions and baitfish. Look for them to generally be in 15 to 35 feet of water, whether they are hovering around the bottom or swimming in open water. Fish finders are the best way to locate big schools of white bass. Fish near the bottom at night with live bait. When the lake freezes over, try your luck at ice fishing for white bass. In spring, once the water temperature rises into the mid sixties, they move shallow into the backs of coves and creek channels to spawn. When white bass chase schools of bait near the surface, spinners, spoons and small crank baits work well. At this time anglers can fish from shore and often do quite well. Use lures that imitate baitfish, including small crankbaits, small jerkbaits, jigs and spoons.

Lake Koshkonong Popular Fish - Yellow Perch

Yellow Perch Fishing

Yellow perch tend to spawn in the April to May timeframe, and the spawn has been strong for years at Lake Koshkonong. 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. They are fun to catch in winter when ice fishing as well. Yellow perch are great table fare, and are a food source for many predator fish in the lake. 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, 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.

Lake Koshkonong Fishing Video

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 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.