Herington Reservoir, Kansas: Fishing Spots and Seasons

• Overview

  Herington Reservoir lies in Dickinson County, in Kansas. Height above sea level is 1,332 feet. The water covers around 460 acres, which puts most of it out of reach from the bank. Around 4.9 miles of bank, which is a long day on foot. For supplies, Herington is 4.1 miles out. It is 68 miles to Wichita, the nearest city. The boundary is close enough to be worth checking before you fish.

• Where to Fish on Herington Reservoir

  Depth is unknown to us, and the shoreline is the better guide. The old creek line under the surface is the feature worth finding. Rip-rap along the wall holds fish that the open bank never does. Public occurrence data for Dickinson County names orangethroat darter, green sunfish, orangespotted sunfish and yellow bullhead. The county list is broader than any single water. On Herington Reservoir that means starting tight and working out.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Long-run averages give July about 80°F and January about 28°F. The freeze here is occasional rather than annual. Some winters give nothing at all, so plan for open water. February into May fishes hardest as the water warms. Herington Reservoir fishes to that pattern most years. Warm spells bring fish up, cold snaps push them down.

• Tackle & Baits

  We hold no note on access for this one. Boat access is recorded roughly half a mile away. A small crankbait along the drop and a worm in the thick stuff cover the bass. Check whether a boat is allowed before you tow one. Signs go up and come down, so check on the day. The nearest alternative is Lake Herington, 1.3 miles out. For Herington Reservoir in particular, ask before you travel.