Fishing at Ferdinand State Forest Lake, Perry County, Indiana

• Overview

  Ferdinand State Forest Lake lies in Perry County, Indiana. Country round the bank runs to open valley. With some 40 acres of water, there is room for a boat but no need of one. The edge runs 1.4 miles or so, easy to work in an afternoon. By elevation it sits in the lower part of our Indiana listings. Ferdinand sits 5.2 miles from here and is the nearest stop. Huntingburg lies 10 miles off, Santa Claus another 12 miles. A county boundary sits nearby, which can matter for local access rules.

• Where to Fish on Ferdinand State Forest Lake

  Depth is not on record here, so the bank has to tell you. Built water gives depth close in, which suits a bank angler. A reservoir gives you a hard edge, a shelf, and not much else. Species logged across Perry County include fantail darter, johnny darter, largemouth bass and orangethroat darter. Take it as the county picture rather than a promise for this water. On Ferdinand State Forest Lake the quiet end is the one worth the extra effort.

• Seasonal Patterns

  In an average year July sits at 76°F and January at 30°F. The calendar is generous: something works in nearly every month. It is not guaranteed from one year to the next. February into May fishes hardest as the water warms. That is the shape of the year on Ferdinand State Forest Lake.

• Tackle & Baits

  Access status is simply unknown for this water. Boat access is recorded roughly half a mile away. Parking within 160 yards means no long carry with tackle. Ferdinand State Forest takes in this water; protected-area rules will apply. A small crankbait along the drop and a worm in the thick stuff cover the bass. Gates get locked out of season on water like this. Check whether bait restrictions apply before you buy any. Should this one be busy, Felmont Oil Company Reservoir is 3 miles off.