Anderson Lake in Brown County: How and When to Fish It

• Overview

  In Indiana, Anderson Lake belongs to Brown County. Elevation runs to 807 feet. The far bank is a conversation away, so keep low and quiet. It is a small entry by Brown County standards. Nashville is the closest town at 4.8 miles. It is 41 miles to Indianapolis, the nearest city. A border sits close enough to be relevant to the paperwork.

• Where to Fish on Anderson Lake

  No figure exists for depth, so let the water show you. The shallow end warms first and pulls fish in ahead of the rest. On a natural lake the weed line and the shelf beyond it do the work. Brown County records list bluegill, channel catfish, green sunfish and longear sunfish among the fish reported. The county figures include rivers and lakes alike. The shape of Anderson Lake rewards a slow walk along one bank.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Between January at about 28°F and July at about 74°F, the water has a wide range to work through. The season stretches long at both ends here. Cover comes and goes, so treat it with suspicion rather than trust. June to September is hot work, so the first and last hours are what count. Keep it in mind when planning a trip to Anderson Lake.

• Tackle & Baits

  We hold no note on access for this one. Mapping shows an empty shoreline: no ramp, no jetty, no marked entry. Catfish want bait on the bottom: cut bait or worms, a simple running rig, and patience after dark. A phone call first saves an afternoon. Access can change hands, so last year's answer may not hold. Ortleib Lake sits 1.6 miles off and takes the overflow. Nothing here settles the position at Anderson Lake for certain.