Fishing Terrace Lake in Bartholomew County, Indiana

• Overview

  The Bartholomew County end of Indiana holds Terrace Lake. The setting is farm and woodlot. This is a pocket water of some 11 acres, and every part of it is reachable from the bank. The nearest place of any size is Columbus, 2.5 miles away. Edinburgh is 11 miles and Cordry Sweetwater Lakes 11 miles. Rules here are straightforward: one county, one set of rules.

• Where to Fish on Terrace Lake

  Depth is unknown to us, and the shoreline is the better guide. Built water gives depth close in, which suits a bank angler. Look for where the old bank line still shows under the surface. Reported across Bartholomew County: longear sunfish, orangethroat darter, bluegill, golden redhorse and johnny darter. Species recorded across the county may be limited to a few waters. Fish Terrace Lake to its features, not to its size.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Long-run averages give July about 75°F and January about 28°F. Conditions shift steadily rather than sharply. It should never be assumed safe, whatever the month says. November and March are the quiet, comfortable months to be out. The season on Terrace Lake follows the weather closely.

• Tackle & Baits

  The paperwork position is blank for this one. The closest car park is half a mile away, so pack accordingly. Bluegill and other panfish take small jigs or worms under a float near any cover. Ask in the nearest town if you are unsure. Access can change hands, so last year's answer may not hold. Failing this one, try Crystal Lake, 0.9 miles away. Rules at Terrace Lake are worth checking on the day.