What You'll Find at Long Lake

Long Lake is a shallow inland lake in Indiana that holds largemouth bass and panfish — bluegill, crappie, and catfish. The lake covers roughly 100 acres and sits in a residential area, which means access is limited and the water gets pressure from local anglers year-round. The lake is clearest in spring and early summer; by mid-summer the water turns murky from algae growth, which actually concentrates the fish but makes sight-fishing difficult.

The shallow depth — most of the lake runs 8 to 12 feet deep — means water temperature swings fast with the seasons. This works in your favor in spring and fall, when the fish are active across the entire water column. Summer heat pushes bass into the deepest holes and under vegetation; winter fishing is possible but slow.

Long Lake is not a destination lake. It's a local spot where you can catch fish without traveling far if you live in central Indiana. The fish are not large — expect largemouth in the 2- to 4-pound range and panfish averaging 6 to 8 inches — but they bite consistently when conditions align.

Key Takeaways

  • Long Lake holds largemouth bass and panfish in shallow water, with the best fishing in spring and fall when the entire lake is fishable.
  • Public access is limited to a small boat launch and bank fishing at designated spots; check with the local parks department for current access rules.
  • An Indiana fishing license is required; you can purchase one online through the Indiana Department of Natural Resources or at any bait shop.
  • Summer algae blooms make the water murky but concentrate fish near vegetation and deeper holes, so adjust your tactics to target structure rather than sight-fishing.
  • Bass spawn in April and May in the shallows; panfish spawn slightly later and bite aggressively during the spawn window.

Seasons and What to Expect

Spring (March through May) is the most reliable season. Water temperatures climb from the 40s into the 60s, and bass move into the shallows to spawn. Largemouth will hit crankbaits, soft plastics, and live shiners in 2 to 6 feet of water. Panfish — especially bluegill and crappie — become aggressive as they prepare to spawn. A simple jig tipped with a minnow or live cricket will produce steady action.

Summer (June through August) brings algae blooms that reduce visibility but concentrate fish. Bass retreat to the deepest holes and under lily pads and fallen timber. Early morning and late evening produce better results than midday. Topwater lures work at dawn; switch to soft plastics and jigs once the sun climbs. Catfish become more active at night and will take chicken liver, cut shad, or prepared stink baits.

Fall (September through November) mirrors spring in many ways. Water cools, fish move shallower, and feeding windows lengthen. This is often the best time to catch larger bass. Crappie fishing peaks in October as the fish school up before winter. Bluegill remain active through November.

Winter (December through February) slows dramatically. The lake may freeze over, closing it to fishing. If open water remains, fish move to the deepest holes — typically 12 to 15 feet — and bite slowly. Jigging with live minnows is the most productive method, but expect fewer fish and longer waits between bites.

Access and Launch Points

Long Lake has one public boat launch operated by the local parks department. The launch is a single-lane concrete ramp suitable for small boats and kayaks. Parking is limited to a small lot; arrive early on weekends. The launch is typically open dawn to dusk, though hours may vary seasonally.

Bank fishing is possible at a few designated spots around the lake, though much of the shoreline is private residential property. Ask at the launch or contact the parks department to confirm where you can legally fish from shore. Some areas have small docks or cleared banks; others require you to wade or fish from the bank edge.

If you do not have a boat, kayaking is a practical option. The shallow water and small size make it easy to cover the lake in a few hours. Kayak access is typically allowed from the same launch area.

Regulations and Licensing

Indiana requires all anglers 18 and older to hold a valid fishing license. You can purchase a one-day, three-day, or annual license through the Indiana Department of Natural Resources website or at any licensed bait and tackle shop. The license covers all freshwater species statewide.

Bass have a 12-inch minimum length limit and a daily bag limit of five fish. Panfish — bluegill and crappie — have no minimum size but a daily bag limit of 25 fish combined. Catfish have no size limit and a daily bag limit of 25 fish. These regulations are current but subject to change; check the IDNR website before you fish to confirm.

Long Lake may have additional local rules posted at the launch or on the parks department website. Some lakes restrict certain tackle types or have seasonal closures. Verify current conditions before planning your trip.

Tactics for Bass and Panfish

Largemouth bass in Long Lake respond to crankbaits, soft plastics, and topwater lures in spring and fall. Focus on the edges of vegetation, fallen timber, and deeper holes. In summer, fish early and late, and target the densest cover you can find. A 6-inch soft plastic rigged on a 3/8-ounce jig head will work in most conditions.

Panfish are less selective. Bluegill and crappie will take small jigs, live minnows, crickets, and even tiny spinners. Fish the shallows in spring and fall; in summer, move to deeper water and structure. A simple bobber rig with a live minnow suspended 3 to 6 feet below the surface is effective and requires no special skill.

Catfish are active year-round but bite best at night and during low-light periods. Cut shad, chicken liver, and commercial stink baits all work. Fish the deepest holes with a simple three-way rig or a slip sinker setup. Catfish will bite on the bottom; set your rod in a holder and wait for the rod to bend.

What to Bring and Prepare

Bring a valid Indiana fishing license, a rod and reel suited to the fish you're targeting, and tackle appropriate to the season. For bass, a 6- to 7-foot medium-action rod with 10- to 15-pound line works well. For panfish, a lighter 5- to 6-foot rod with 4- to 8-pound line is more enjoyable. Catfish tackle can be heavier — 15- to 20-pound line — because you may hook larger fish.

Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water. The lake has no shade in the middle, and sun exposure adds up fast. A small cooler with ice keeps your catch fresh if you plan to keep fish. A landing net makes handling fish easier and reduces injury to the fish if you plan to release them.

Check the weather forecast before you go. Wind can make the shallow water choppy and uncomfortable, especially in a small boat or kayak. Calm mornings are ideal. If rain is forecast, plan to fish early and leave before storms arrive.

Nearby Resources and Information

The nearest bait and tackle shops are in the surrounding towns. They stock live bait — minnows, crickets, and shiners — and can answer questions about current conditions. Call ahead to confirm they have what you need, especially during peak season.

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources website has current fishing regulations, license information, and a list of public fishing areas statewide. Contact your local parks department for specific rules about Long Lake, launch hours, and any seasonal closures.

If you are new to fishing, consider spending an hour at a local shop talking to the staff. They know the lake better than anyone and can point you toward the most productive spots and tactics for the current season.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a boat to fish Long Lake?

No. Bank fishing is possible at designated spots, and kayaking is a practical option if you do not have a motorboat. A boat gives you access to more water and deeper holes, but you can catch fish from shore or a kayak in spring and fall.

What is the best time of year to fish Long Lake?

Spring (March through May) and fall (September through November) are most reliable. Water temperatures are moderate, fish are active, and the entire lake is fishable. Summer is possible but requires early morning and late evening fishing. Winter is slow and may be closed if the lake freezes.

Can I keep the fish I catch?

Yes, within the daily bag limits set by Indiana. Bass have a 12-inch minimum and a five-fish daily limit. Panfish have no minimum size but a 25-fish combined daily limit. Catfish have no size limit and a 25-fish daily limit. Check current regulations before you fish.

What if I have never fished before?

Start with panfish — they are less selective and more forgiving of mistakes. A simple bobber rig with a live minnow is all you need. Visit a local bait shop and ask the staff to show you how to set it up. They can also recommend the best spots for beginners.

Is Long Lake stocked with fish?

Long Lake is a natural lake, not a stocked pond. The fish population is self-sustaining, though the Indiana Department of Natural Resources may conduct occasional management activities. Contact the IDNR or local parks department for details about any recent stocking or management work.