Southeast of Bloomington, near Indiana University, Lake Monroe, also known as Monroe Lake or Monroe Reservoir, is Indiana's largest lake, covering 10,750 acres through portions of Monroe, Jackson and Brown counties.

On the south shore, nestled in the gorgeous countryside of Indiana's federally protected Hoosier National Forest Purchase Area is the Charles C. Deam Wilderness Area, which is home to three state recreational areas. Activities include boating, water skiing, swimming, fishing, camping and picnicking.

Fishing

Lake Monroe provides fishing opportunities throughout the year as its abundant fish populations makes for successful fishing trips. Several fishing piers enable anglers another option to fishing from a boat or shore.

Managed as a cooperative effort between the US Army Corps of Engineers and the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Lake Monroe is home to approximately 30 game and nongame fish species. Bluegill, largemouth bass, hybrid striped bass (wipers), catfish, black crappie, white crappie and walleye abound in this lake. The DNR stocks the lake with walleye, crappie, largemouth bass, catfish and wipers on an annual basis.

  Search Lake Monroe Resources
     Coordinates:
39.0924N -86.4239W
Map It:
Lake Type:
Reservoir
Surface Area:
10,750 acres
Maximum Depth:
38 ft
Elevation:
538 ft
Normal Water Clarity:
3 - 6 ft
Major City:
Bloomington
Airport:
Indianapolis

There are no horsepower or size limits for motorboats on Lake Monroe, which allows for unencumbered opportunities for water sports' lovers.

Several Marinas, boat rental facilities, launch ramps and supply stores are available all around the lake.

Please consult the Lake Resource Guidefor more information on boating sales, service and rentals in the area.

• IN Fishing Licenses
• IN Fish Consumption Advisories
• Indiana Department of Natural Resources