Kaw Lake Fishing Report Guide
Kaw Lake Fishing Report Guide
Hey there, fishing enthusiasts! If you’re looking for an awesome fishing spot that’s got it all, look no further than Kaw Lake. Nestled just 8 miles east of Ponca City, Oklahoma, on the beautiful Arkansas River, Kaw Lake is a gem that promises a fantastic fishing experience. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, this lake has something for everyone. So, grab your gear, and let’s dive into all the great things Kaw Lake has to offer!
About Kaw Lake Fishing
Kaw Lake is a man-made reservoir that was created by damming the Arkansas River. Completed in 1976, this lake has become a beloved spot for fishing, boating, and enjoying the great outdoors. The lake was named after the Kaw Nation, a Native American tribe that once inhabited the area. With its stunning views and diverse fish population, Kaw Lake is a prime destination for anglers from all over.
Kaw Lake Fishing Details
Here’s a quick rundown of everything you need to know about Kaw Lake:
- Water Surface: 17,000 acres
- Shoreline: 168 miles
- Average Depth: 20 feet
- Max Depth: 56 feet
- Surface Elevation: 1,010 feet
- Location: Ponca City, Oklahoma
- Coordinates: 36.7410° N, 96.9595° W
- Accessibility: Easily accessible via multiple boat ramps and public access points
- Type of Lake: Reservoir
- Lake Amenities: Boat ramps, fishing docks, campgrounds, picnic areas, hiking trails, and restrooms
Types of Fish in Kaw Lake
Kaw Lake is home to a variety of fish species, making it a paradise for anglers. Here’s a look at the different types of fish you can catch and where you’re likely to find them:
- Largemouth Bass: These are often found around submerged structures like fallen trees, rock piles, and vegetation. The best spots are usually along the shoreline and in shallow coves.
- White Bass: You’ll find white bass schooling in open water, especially during the spring and fall. They are often near points and drop-offs.
- Crappie: Crappie love hiding around brush piles, submerged trees, and docks. Look for them in deeper water during the summer and in shallow areas during spring and fall.
- Catfish (Channel, Blue, and Flathead): Catfish can be found throughout the lake but are especially abundant in deeper channels and around the dam. Night fishing is particularly effective for these guys.
- Walleye: Walleye are often found near rocky points and submerged islands. They tend to move deeper as the water warms up, so try fishing in deeper waters during the summer.
- Striped Bass: Striped bass are often found in open water and near the dam. They follow schools of baitfish, so keep an eye out for feeding activity.
Best Fishing Baits, Lures, and Tackle for Kaw Lake Fishing
Choosing the right bait and tackle can make all the difference in your fishing success. Here are some top recommendations for Kaw Lake:
- Largemouth Bass: Try using plastic worms, crankbaits, and spinnerbaits. Topwater lures are also great, especially in the early morning or late evening.
- White Bass: Jigs, spoons, and small crankbaits work well. Live minnows are also a good choice.
- Crappie: Small jigs, minnows, and tube baits are excellent for crappie. Use light tackle to increase your chances of a catch.
- Catfish: Cut bait, chicken liver, and stink bait are popular choices. For bigger catfish, try using live bait like shad or bluegill.
- Walleye: Jigs tipped with minnows or nightcrawlers are effective. Crankbaits and spinner rigs also work well, especially in deeper water.
- Striped Bass: Live bait like shad is very effective. You can also use large crankbaits, swimbaits, and topwater lures.
- 8 SEGMENTS LIFELIKE LURES: Designed with 8 segment multi-jointed body, TRUSCEND fishing lure can sink slowly and move flexible in water. In addition, life-like swimming actions make it attracting more catches and provoking predator fish to strike.
- Unbeatable Value: This fishing lure kit contains two crankbaits that run at a depth of 9 to 14 feet and serves as a great addition to your tackle box to cover a huge range
- The Cotton Cordell Wally Diver has proven that its slender profile and tight wiggle produce big walleye and bass.
- DOUBLE-BLADE UNIQUE DESIGN – TRUSCEND fishing lures for bass uses a double-blade rotating tail design, which delivers a heavy sputter as it moves across the surface, create noise and commotion that fish can not ignore. It also “roll resistant” and works well at a variety of speeds. Interestingly, when the monster bass bites the top water fishing lures, its tail will close to prevent the bass from spitting it out.
- ULTRA-SHARP OWNER HOOKS – Equipped with sharp high quality OWNER high carbon steel hooks and built-in magnet, the innovative design of these soft lures can help ensure increased fish hook ups in all situations while Reduce the odds getting hung up when fishing, thus saving your bait for future use.
- ✅ Purpose and Size: These grubs for fishing attract a wide variety of fish including trout, crappie, panfish, bluegill, bream, roach, carp and more. Using grub fishing lures that imitate worms offers many advantages over live worms or minnows. These crappie lures are equipped with an optimal size hook and a rubber grub. The hook dimensions are 10 mm wide and 25 mm long, and the length of the larva itself is 22 mm.
Best Fishing Spot Locations at Kaw Lake Fishing
Knowing where to cast your line can significantly boost your chances of a great catch. Here are some of the best fishing spots at Kaw Lake:
- Coon Creek: This area is known for its abundance of crappie and bass. The submerged trees and brush piles provide excellent cover for these fish.
- Washunga Bay: A great spot for largemouth bass and catfish. The bay’s shallow waters and abundant vegetation make it a prime fishing location.
- Sarge Creek: This creek is popular for its white bass and walleye. The rocky points and drop-offs are perfect habitats for these species.
- Pioneer Cove: Known for its excellent catfish fishing, especially at night. The deeper channels here are a hotspot for big catches.
- Kaw Dam: Fishing near the dam can be highly productive, especially for striped bass and walleye. The deep waters and strong currents attract a variety of fish.
Fishing Tips and Recommendations for Kaw Lake Fishing
To make the most of your fishing trip to Kaw Lake, here are some handy tips:
- Check the Weather: Fish are more active during overcast days or when there’s a light drizzle. Avoid fishing during extreme weather conditions.
- Use a Fish Finder: If you have access to a fish finder, use it to locate schools of fish and underwater structures.
- Time of Day: Early morning and late evening are the best times to fish, as fish are more active during these cooler parts of the day.
- Stay Quiet: Fish can be easily spooked by noise, so try to keep your movements and sounds to a minimum.
- Experiment with Depth: If you’re not having luck at one depth, try adjusting your bait or lure to different depths until you find where the fish are biting.
Kaw Lake Fishing Reviews
Here are some glowing reviews from anglers who’ve had a blast fishing at Kaw Lake:
- John S. from Tulsa, OK: “Kaw Lake is my go-to spot for bass fishing. The variety of fish and the beautiful scenery make every trip worthwhile. I always come back with a good catch!”
- Mary L. from Wichita, KS: “We had an amazing time fishing at Kaw Lake. The kids caught their first catfish, and we enjoyed a peaceful day out on the water. Highly recommend it!”
- Dave R. from Oklahoma City, OK: “The crappie fishing at Kaw Lake is top-notch. The submerged trees and brush piles make it easy to find them. Can’t wait to go back!”
- Lisa M. from Dallas, TX: “Kaw Lake is fantastic for family fishing trips. The amenities are great, and the fishing spots are easy to access. We love coming here every summer.”
- Tom B. from Kansas City, MO: “Caught my biggest striped bass at Kaw Lake! The thrill of reeling it in was unforgettable. This lake never disappoints.”
Top-Rated Closest RV Parks, RV Resorts, and Campgrounds for Kaw Lake Fishing
If you’re planning an extended stay, here are five top-rated RV parks and campgrounds near Kaw Lake:
- Coon Creek Cove Campground:
- Features: Lakeside camping, boat ramps, picnic areas, restrooms
- Amenities: Electric and water hookups, fishing docks, playground
- Distance to Lake: On the shoreline
- Osage Cove Campground:
- Features: Shaded campsites, boat ramps, picnic areas
- Amenities: Electric and water hookups, restrooms, showers
- Distance to Lake: 1 mile
- Pioneer Cove Campground:
- Features: Lakeside camping, boat ramps, hiking trails
- Amenities: Full hookups, restrooms, picnic areas, playground
- Distance to Lake: On the shoreline
- Sarge Creek Campground:
- Features: Scenic views, boat ramps, picnic areas
- Amenities: Electric and water hookups, restrooms, showers
- Distance to Lake: 0.5 miles
- Washunga Bay Campground:
- Features: Lakeside camping, boat ramps, fishing docks
- Amenities: Electric and water hookups, restrooms, picnic areas
- Distance to Lake: On the shoreline
Kaw Lake Fishing Summary
Kaw Lake is truly a fishing haven that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re here for the largemouth bass, the crappie, or the catfish, you’re bound to have an unforgettable experience. The lake’s natural beauty, combined with its excellent fishing opportunities, makes it a must-visit destination for anglers of all levels. So pack your gear, bring your family, and get ready to create some amazing memories at Kaw Lake!
Frequently Asked Questions for Kaw Lake Fishing
1. Do I need a fishing license to fish at Kaw Lake? Yes, a valid Oklahoma fishing license is required to fish at Kaw Lake. Licenses can be purchased online or at local retailers.
2. Are there any fishing regulations I need to be aware of? Yes, there are specific regulations regarding the size and number of fish you can catch. Make sure to check the latest Oklahoma fishing regulations before heading out.
3. Can I fish from the shore, or do I need a boat? You can fish from both the shore and a boat at Kaw Lake. There are plenty of accessible fishing spots along the shoreline.
4. Are there any fishing tournaments held at Kaw Lake? Yes, Kaw Lake hosts several fishing tournaments throughout the year. Check local listings and the lake’s official website for upcoming events.
5. Is Kaw Lake family-friendly? Absolutely! Kaw Lake offers a variety of amenities and activities for families, including picnic areas, playgrounds, and hiking trails.
We hope this guide helps you plan your next fishing trip to Kaw Lake. Tight lines and happy fishing!
