The Ultimate Guide to SUP Fishing in Kansas: Top 17 Locations and Tips for Success.

Kansas, often renowned for its vast prairies and golden wheat fields, may not be the first place that comes to mind for fishing enthusiasts. However, hidden within the state lies an array of serene lakes, rivers, and reservoirs, offering remarkable opportunities for Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP) fishing. SUP fishing combines the thrill of fishing with the tranquility of paddleboarding, creating an unparalleled outdoor experience. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the best places to SUP fish in Kansas, highlighting the types of lures or bait to use, the fish species available, and the optimal time of year to visit each location.

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  1. Tuttle Creek Lake.

    Fish Species: Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Channel Catfish, Crappie, Bluegill

    Best Lures/Bait: Topwater lures for Bass, live bait or stinkbait for Catfish, jigs for Crappie

    Best Time to Fish: May to October

    Largest Target Fish Caught: 9 lb Largemouth Bass in June 2022

Tuttle Creek Lake, one of the state's largest lakes, offers a perfect balance of open waters and secluded coves for SUP fishing. Its thriving bass population and diverse fish species make it a popular destination for anglers seeking a variety of catches.

  1. Milford Lake.

    Location: Junction City, Kansas

    Fish Species: Walleye, Wiper, White Bass, Catfish, Crappie

    Best Lures/Bait: Jigging spoons for Walleye, live bait for Wiper, White Bass, and Catfish

    Best Time to Fish: April to June and September to October

    Largest Target Fish Caught: 12 lb Walleye in May 2023

Milford Lake is a prime location for anglers in search of trophy-sized Walleye. Its clear waters and diverse fishery offer excellent opportunities for both beginners and seasoned SUP fishing enthusiasts.

  1. Cheney Reservoir.

    Location: Cheney, Kansas

    Fish Species: White Bass, Wiper, Crappie, Catfish, Saugeye

    Best Lures/Bait: Crankbaits or jigs for White Bass and Wiper, live bait for Catfish and Saugeye

    Best Time to Fish: March to May and September to October

    Largest Target Fish Caught: 8 lb Wiper in April 2023

Cheney Reservoir's rocky shores and submerged structures create an ideal habitat for various fish species. The reservoir's reputation for producing sizeable Wipers and White Bass makes it a favorite among SUP fishing enthusiasts.

  1. Perry Lake.

    Location: Ozawkie, Kansas

    Fish Species: Crappie, White Bass, Channel Catfish, Flathead Catfish, Saugeye

    Best Lures/Bait: Minnow-shaped lures for Crappie, jigs or crankbaits for White Bass, live bait for Catfish

    Best Time to Fish: April to June and September to November

    Largest Target Fish Caught: 35 lb Flathead Catfish in June 2022

Perry Lake's varied underwater structure and abundant vegetation create an ideal environment for fishing. Anglers can expect exciting catches of Flathead Catfish and trophy-sized Saugeye while paddling across its picturesque waters.

  1. Clinton Lake.

    Location: Lawrence, Kansas

    Fish Species: Crappie, Largemouth Bass, Wiper, Catfish, Bluegill

    Best Lures/Bait: Plastic grubs for Crappie, topwater lures for Largemouth Bass, live bait for Catfish

    Best Time to Fish: April to June and September to November

    Largest Target Fish Caught: 7 lb Largemouth Bass in May 2023

Clinton Lake's crystal-clear waters provide an opportunity to spot fish beneath the surface while paddleboarding. Its large population of Largemouth Bass and Wiper ensures an action-packed fishing experience.

  1. Melvern Lake.

    Location: Melvern, Kansas

    Fish Species: Crappie, Largemouth Bass, Catfish, White Bass, Saugeye

    Best Lures/Bait: Minnow-shaped lures for Crappie, plastic worms for Largemouth Bass, live bait for Catfish

    Best Time to Fish: April to June and September to November

    Largest Target Fish Caught: 5 lb Saugeye in October 2022

Melvern Lake's scenic beauty and bountiful fishing opportunities make it a favorite SUP fishing spot for both locals and visitors alike. Its Saugeye population offers a thrilling challenge for anglers seeking to catch this prized fish.

  1. Pomona Lake.

    Location: Vassar, Kansas.

    Fish Species: Crappie, Largemouth Bass, Channel Catfish, White Bass, Walleye.

    Best Lures/Bait: Jigs for Crappie, plastic worms for Largemouth Bass, live bait or crankbaits for Walleye.

    Best Time to Fish: April to June and September to November.

    Largest Target Fish Caught: 9 lb Walleye in May 2023

Pomona Lake's diverse fishery ensures an exciting SUP fishing experience, whether targeting Walleye in the deeper waters or chasing after Largemouth Bass along the shallows.

  1. Wilson Lake.

    Location: Sylvan Grove, Kansas.

    Fish Species: Striped Bass, Smallmouth Bass, White Bass, Catfish, Walleye.

    Best Lures/Bait: Swimbaits for Striped Bass, crankbaits for Smallmouth Bass, live bait for Catfish.

    Best Time to Fish: March to June and September to November Largest Target Fish Caught: 15 lb Striped Bass in June 2022

Wilson Lake's rugged limestone bluffs and clear waters create a unique SUP fishing experience. The lake's large population of Striped Bass and Smallmouth Bass guarantees an exhilarating adventure for anglers.

  1. Webster Reservoir.

    Location: Stockton, Kansas

    Fish Species: White Bass, Wiper, Catfish, Crappie, Walleye

    Best Lures/Bait: Jigging spoons for Wiper and White Bass, live bait for Catfish and Walleye

    Best Time to Fish: April to June and September to November

    Largest Target Fish Caught: 6 lb Wiper in May 2023

Webster Reservoir's sprawling waters and abundant fish populations provide ample opportunities for SUP anglers to enjoy a memorable day on the water. Its Wiper and White Bass offer thrilling catches for those seeking high-energy action.

  1. Hillsdale Lake.

    Location: Paola, Kansas

    Fish Species: Crappie, Largemouth Bass, Channel Catfish, Walleye, Bluegill

    Best Lures/Bait: Minnow-shaped lures for Crappie, plastic worms for Largemouth Bass, live bait for Catfish and Walleye

    Best Time to Fish: April to June and September to November

    Largest Target Fish Caught: 8 lb Walleye in June 2022

Hillsdale Lake's well-maintained recreational facilities and diverse fishery make it an ideal destination for SUP fishing enthusiasts. The lake's healthy Walleye population provides ample opportunities for a successful fishing trip.

  1. Glen Elder Reservoir.

    Location: Glen Elder, Kansas

    Fish Species: Crappie, White Bass, Walleye, Catfish, Wiper

    Best Lures/Bait: Jigs for Crappie, crankbaits for White Bass and Walleye, live bait for Catfish and Wiper

    Best Time to Fish: April to June and September to November

    Largest Target Fish Caught: 10 lb Walleye in May 2023

Glen Elder Reservoir, also known as Waconda Lake, boasts a vast expanse of water and exceptional fishing opportunities. Its significant population of Walleye and Wiper ensures anglers an action-packed experience.

  1. Milford Lake.

    Location: Milford, Kansas

    Fish Species: White Bass, Wiper, Catfish, Crappie, Walleye

    Best Lures/Bait: Jigging spoons for Wiper and White Bass, live bait for Catfish and Walleye

    Best Time to Fish: April to June and September to November

    Largest Target Fish Caught: 7 lb Walleye in April 2023

Milford Lake, the largest lake in Kansas, offers SUP anglers an abundance of fishing opportunities. Its clear waters and thriving fish populations make it a top choice for both beginners and experienced anglers.

  1. Big Hill Lake.

    Location: Cherryvale, Kansas

    Fish Species: Largemouth Bass, Catfish, Crappie, Bluegill, Saugeye

    Best Lures/Bait: Plastic worms for Largemouth Bass, live bait for Catfish and Saugeye, jigs for Crappie

    Best Time to Fish: April to June and September to November

    Largest Target Fish Caught: 6 lb Largemouth Bass in May 2023

Big Hill Lake's scenic beauty and abundant fish species create a serene SUP fishing experience. The lake's Largemouth Bass and Saugeye are sure to provide excitement for anglers of all skill levels.

  1. Bone Creek Reservoir.

    Location: Murdock, Kansas

    Fish Species: Largemouth Bass, Bluegill, Crappie, Channel Catfish, Carp

    Best Lures/Bait: Plastic worms for Largemouth Bass, live bait for Bluegill and Catfish, jigs for Crappie

    Best Time to Fish: May to October

    Largest Target Fish Caught: 5 lb Largemouth Bass in June 2022

Bone Creek Reservoir, surrounded by peaceful countryside, offers a secluded SUP fishing experience. Anglers can expect catches of quality Largemouth Bass and various panfish while paddling its tranquil waters.

  1. Elk City Lake.

    Location: Independence, Kansas

    Fish Species: Channel Catfish, Flathead Catfish, White Bass, Crappie, Saugeye

    Best Lures/Bait: Live bait for Catfish and Flathead Catfish, jigs for White Bass and Crappie, plastic worms for Saugeye

    Best Time to Fish: April to June and September to October

    Largest Target Fish Caught: 30 lb Flathead Catfish in June 2022

Elk City Lake, with its forested shorelines and clear waters, provides a peaceful and rewarding SUP fishing experience. The lake's large Flathead Catfish and Saugeye are the prime targets for anglers seeking trophy catches.

 

  1. Clark State Fishing Lake.

    Location: Ashland, Kansas

    Fish Species: Largemouth Bass, Channel Catfish, Bluegill, Crappie, Carp

    Best Lures/Bait: Plastic worms for Largemouth Bass, live bait for Catfish and Bluegill, jigs for Crappie

    Best Time to Fish: May to October

    Largest Target Fish Caught: 5 lb Largemouth Bass in June 2022

Clark State Fishing Lake, surrounded by the beautiful Clark State Lake Wildlife Area, is an excellent destination for anglers seeking a peaceful SUP fishing experience. Its Largemouth Bass and Catfish are popular catches for paddlers.

  1. Marion Reservoir.

    Location: Marion, Kansas

    Fish Species: Crappie, Largemouth Bass, White Bass, Walleye, Channel Catfish

    Best Lures/Bait: Minnow-shaped lures for Crappie, plastic worms for Largemouth Bass, live bait or crankbaits for Walleye

    Best Time to Fish: April to June and September to November

    Largest Target Fish Caught: 6 lb Walleye in May 2023

Marion Reservoir's scenic beauty and thriving fish populations make it an ideal spot for SUP fishing. Anglers can expect exciting catches of Walleye and Largemouth Bass, along with numerous Crappie and Catfish.

Conclusion:

Kansas might not be the first destination that comes to mind for fishing enthusiasts, but its hidden gems provide an extraordinary SUP fishing experience. Kansas has something to offer every angler, from serene lakes surrounded by rolling hills to vast reservoirs teeming with a diverse fish population. Armed with this comprehensive guide, adventurers can embark on their SUP fishing journey, discovering the state's 20 best locations, the ideal lures or bait to use, and the optimal time of year for each destination. As they paddle across the tranquil waters, they'll create lasting memories while catching an array of fish species that call Kansas their home.

Glide Paddle Boards SUP Fishing Tips. 

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Welcome to our Comprehensive Guide on paddle board fishing! Whether you're a beginner or an experienced angler, we have a wealth of tips and information to make your SUP fishing experience a success. Glide Paddle Boards offers a wide range of paddle boards suitable for all your needs.

If you're new to SUP fishing, don't worry! We have you covered with beginner tips from Glide. Learn about fishing from a SUP and discover the best techniques for landing fish while paddle board fishing. Our article on Fishing from a Paddle Board provides valuable tips, tricks, and insights to help you make the most of your fishing adventure.

Wondering what a fishing SUP is? We've got the answer! Find everything you need to start SUP fishing, from the equipment to the techniques. Our Beginner's Guide to Spring SUP Fishing will get you started on the right foot.

For wildlife enthusiasts, we have a blog with informative articles, including the Beginner's Guide to Bird Watching. If you enjoy stand-up paddle boarding and wildlife encounters, don't miss our article on Stand Up Paddle Boarding and Wildlife Encounters.

If you're looking for the best paddle boarding spots in the United States, we've got you covered! Take a state-by-state tour of where to paddle board with Glide Paddle Boards in our article, The Best Places to Paddle Board in the United States. Explore our recommended locations and make the most of your paddle boarding adventures.

For those seeking international paddle boarding spots, we have two articles to help you out. Check out our ultimate guide on finding places to paddle board near you, which provides tips and tricks for discovering exciting new locations. And for a global perspective, don't miss our article on Epic Spots Globally To Paddle Board.

No matter your experience level or interests, our comprehensive guide has something for everyone. Get ready to embark on unforgettable paddle board fishing adventures with Glide Paddle Boards by your side!