Fishing Center Lake in Steuben County, Indiana

• Overview

  Center Lake is a Steuben County water, in Indiana. It sits at 1,004 feet above sea level. It measures about 44 acres, which is a comfortable size for bank fishing. With about 1.0 miles of edge, you can try several depths in one session. It is high ground by Indiana standards. For a base, Angola sits 1.3 miles out. The big place round here is Fort Wayne, 37 miles distant. It lies deep inside the county rather than near an edge.

• Where to Fish on Center Lake

  Our records carry no depth, so judge it from the bank. A natural lake fishes on cover, and cover here means weed and timber. On a natural lake the weed line and the shelf beyond it do the work. Reported across Steuben County: bluegill, yellow perch, largemouth bass, warmouth and pumpkinseed. The county list is broader than any single water. The near bank of Center Lake is often the one people ignore.

• Seasonal Patterns

  The warmest month averages 71°F, the coldest about 22°F. Cold locks it up for a good stretch each year. Hard cover is dependable here; it goes around late March. In an average year the thaw lands around late March and the freeze near mid December. From the thaw to midsummer the fishing improves week by week. Keep it in mind when planning a trip to Center Lake.

• Tackle & Baits

  Nothing on record says whether the bank is open or closed. No dam controls it, and the level follows the season. You can leave the car about half a mile from the water. A small crankbait along the drop and a worm in the thick stuff cover the bass. Parking space is the usual limit rather than the bank itself. Keep proof of licence with you rather than in the car. The nearest alternative is Middle Center Lake, 0.6 miles out. Confirm access to Center Lake locally before you travel.