Rainbow Lake Fishing near Geneva, Indiana

• Overview

  Look for Rainbow Lake in Adams County, Indiana. The country round it is mixed forest from end to end. Around 48 acres of surface means several distinct areas to work. The full circuit measures close to 1.5 miles on foot. Nearest place of any size is Geneva, 0.8 miles away. Then Berne, 3.9 miles, and Portland, 12 miles. Being near a boundary, it pays to know which side you are fishing.

• Where to Fish on Rainbow Lake

  Depth remains unrecorded, so treat the first session as a survey. A reservoir gives you a hard edge, a shelf, and not much else. Levels move with the draw rather than the rain on water like this. County-wide records name johnny darter, bluegill and channel catfish. The county figures include rivers and lakes alike. Work Rainbow Lake in sections rather than trying to cover it.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Climate records put July near 74°F and January near 24°F. A full turn of seasons, with the strongest sport on either side of summer. Once it clears, about mid March, the fishing comes on quickly. Climate averages put the opening at about mid March and the closing near late December. June through September is the settled part of the year, with the shoulders busier for fish. Rainbow Lake runs to that rhythm year in and year out.

• Tackle & Baits

  There is no clear statement anywhere on who can fish it. Mapping shows parking within half a mile. Somewhere to sit and eat is half a mile out. This sits inside Limberlost Swamp Wetlands Preserve, so read the reserve notices first. Catfish want bait on the bottom: cut bait or worms, a simple running rig, and patience after dark. Rules for this water may differ from the county norm. Where the way in crosses private ground, ask first. Kunkel Lake at 12 miles is the sensible second choice. Check the position at Rainbow Lake before loading the car.