Lake Monroe Fish Quality

[davidsa]

Wondering what kind of bass fishery Lake Monroe is??? A co-worker offered me use of her condo on the lake. I know virtually nothing about the lake other then it being 2.5 hours from my house many thanks!

[ss]

10 years ago, Monroe was a very good bass fishing lake, but it has been going down hill since then. I would call it average fishing at best for Indiana. If the lodging if free, give it a try. I don't think it would be worth driving 2.5 hours every weekend though.

[davidsa]

Many thanks for the reply.

[hardestyeric]

Depending on the time of year you should be able to find some decent fish. Usually during the week, the fishing is a lot better than on the weekends. The fish are still there, but they are a little tougher to catch.
Eric H.

[ukkid]

In 1995 I caught several nice fish on a regular basis at Monroe, but it has gone way down hill since. The fish may still be there but the fishing pressure on that lake on weekends is terrible. I live an hour and a half from Monroe and the only way I will fish it again is either at night or through the week.

[davidsa]

Pretty consistant opinion across the board. thanks to all!

[flippinstick]

What would be your choice of bait for the month of April? Is the lake rocky, grass, mud, clear? I have never been there either, thought about trying it out next month. Thanks Joe

[hardestyeric]

A simple answer would be "yes". The lake has it all. Down by the dam is deep, clear, and rocky. The creeks are usually colored, mud bottomed in spots and lots of stick ups.
I would say jig and cranks depending on the weather.
Eric H.

[idbefishing]

If I have to comment on the quality of the fishery alone and not how easy it is to catch fish? I would say it's very good. If they drain that lake, the number and weight of bass will probably be much higher then any other lake in IN. In April my choice would be jerking and cranking, sunny days are best.
By the way, does anyone know if Patoka is up high with all the rain and snow we got?

[DSPCHAMY]

The corp has it (patoka) at summer pool. Here is the link to check water levels and in the summer see oxygen levels and temps.

http://www.lrl.usace.army.mil/wc/reports/lkreport.html