Van Bibber Lake Fishing in Putnam County, Indiana

• Overview

  Van Bibber Lake lies within the bounds of Putnam County, Indiana. Height above sea level is 781 feet. About 11 acres of surface, which puts the far bank inside easy sight. Head to Greencastle, 6.6 miles away, for anything you forgot. The nearest city of size is Indianapolis, 41 miles away. The county edge is within a short distance of the bank.

• Where to Fish on Van Bibber Lake

  There is no recorded depth, so work from what you can see. The old creek line under the surface is the feature worth finding. Draw-down through summer strips the margins, so follow the water out. Species logged across Putnam County include rainbow darter, golden redhorse, longear sunfish, bluegill and greenside darter. Species recorded across the county may be limited to a few waters. At Van Bibber Lake light and wind decide more than tackle does.

• Seasonal Patterns

  The year swings from about 25°F in January to roughly 74°F in July. The freeze here is occasional rather than annual. It is not guaranteed even in a cold spell, so check yourself. Late winter often fishes better here than midsummer does. The season on Van Bibber Lake follows the weather closely.

• Tackle & Baits

  Access status is simply unknown for this water. Launch at Van Bibber Lake Boat Ramp, half a mile from the water. Largemouth respond to soft plastics tight to cover; go weedless where the growth is heavy. Look for a notice board at the entrance. Rules for boats are stricter than rules for the bank in many places. The nearest alternative is Glenn Flint Lake, 0.4 miles out. Where Van Bibber Lake is concerned, a local answer beats a written one.