(21)moon phase
water temp
51°F
Sun times displayed in .
Last water temp report: 4/14/24.
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Lake Monona is a freshwater lake located in Dane County, Wisconsin, in the southern part of the state. The lake covers an area of approximately 3,359 acres and has a maximum depth of 74 feet. It is the second largest lake in the Yahara River chain of lakes, which includes Lake Mendota, Lake Kegonsa, and Lake Waubesa.
The lake is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and other water-based activities. It has several boat launches and marinas, and visitors can enjoy water skiing, wakeboarding, tubing, and other water sports, as well as kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. There are also several parks and beaches around the lake that offer swimming and sunbathing opportunities.
Lake Monona is known for its excellent fishing, with species such as walleye, northern pike, bass, and panfish available throughout the year. There are several fishing piers and fish cribs located around the lake to enhance the fishing experience.
In addition to water activities, the area around Lake Monona offers a variety of other recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, and wildlife watching. The lake is surrounded by several parks, including the Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center, which offers panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding area.
Overall, Lake Monona is a great destination for visitors looking to enjoy a variety of recreational activities in a scenic setting in southern Wisconsin.
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Each week we're giving away a $25 Kiwk Trip gift card to one lucky angler. All you need to do is upload a pic of your catch for a chance to win! Click here to see last week's winner.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Lake Monona, WI
- How big is Lake Monona?
- How deep is Lake Monona?
- What kind of fish can you catch in Lake Monona?
- Are there fishing guides or charters for Lake Monona?
- Are there places to stay in the Lake Monona area?
- Are there topographical lake maps available Lake Monona?
- Are there boat launches on Lake Monona?
- Are there places to eat and drink near Lake Monona?
- What are the fishing regulations for Lake Monona?
- What is the bottom compostion of Lake Monona?
- What is the average air temp for Lake Monona?
- Are there any state parks near Lake Monona?
How big is Lake Monona?
Lake Monona is approximately 3,359 sq acres (13.6 sq km) in size.
How deep is Lake Monona?
Lake Monona is approximately 74 feet (22.6 m) at its deepest point with an average depth of 27 feet (8.2 m).
What kind of fish can you catch in Lake Monona?
Although thery may be others but anglers can expect to find a variety of fish including Channel Catfish, Lake Sturgeon, Largemouth Bass, Muskie, Northern Pike, Panfish, Smallmouth Bass and Walleye in Lake Monona.
Are there fishing guides or charters for Lake Monona?
Yes! There are fishing guides and charters for Lake Monona and/or the surrounding area. Might we suggest Fishing Thrills Guide Service?
Are there places to stay in the Lake Monona area?
Are you craving a weekend escape from the hustle and bustle of city life? Or maybe you're an avid angler in search of the perfect fishing spot? Look no further! Lake Monona and its surrounding area offer an abundance of options to suit your needs. If you're in need of accommodation, check out our area map which highlights some of the best places to stay. And if you're looking for even more options, head on over to our Travel section. But why settle for a traditional hotel or resort when you can take your adventure to the next level by renting a RV? The open road awaits you!
More Lodging Options
More Lodging Options
Are there topographical lake maps available Lake Monona?
We have an topograpical map for online viewing near the top of this page. Lake-Link Pro users can download an print a topograpical map of Lake Monona (.pdf format) along with 2,700 more lake maps. For more information on all the benefits of Lake-Link Pro click here.
Are there boat launches on Lake Monona?
We know of 5 public boat launches on Lake Monona. Please observe any specific lake regulations posted by the boat launch and please help keep the launch area free of litter.
Are there places to eat and drink near Lake Monona?
Yes, you can find numerous options in the area. Click the button below to see what's nearby.
What are the fishing regulations for Lake Monona?
There are specific fishing regulations Lake Monona that you need to know. For complete fishing regulations visit the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. To report a violation call (800) 847-9367 or cell #367. Need a Wisconsin fishing license?
General Restrictions
- Catch and release fishing for largemouth and smallmouth bass is open year round unless otherwise noted.
- Motor Trolling is allowed with up to 3 hooks, baits, or lures, per angler.
What is the bottom composition of Lake Monona?
Lake Monona's bottom composition is comprised of muck (40%), sand (30%), gravel (25%) and rock (5%).Explore the Lake Monona area in a RV
Are you looking for an adventurous vacation option that won't break the bank? Look no further than renting an RV! Contrary to popular belief, the process is much simpler than you might imagine. With just a few easy steps, you'll soon be experiencing the ultimate freedom and convenience of exploring the open road in your very own recreational vehicle. And the best part? RV travel can save you up to 60% compared to other types of vacations! With the money you'll save, you'll be able to travel even more and create unforgettable memories along the way. So why wait? Start planning your next adventure today with an RV rental. Learn more about renting a RV.
What aquatic invasive species are found in Lake Monona?
There are some aquatic invasive species found in Lake Monona including Banded Mystery Snail, Chinese Mystery Snail, Curly-Leaf Pondweed, Eurasian Water-Milfoil, Spiny Waterflea and Zebra Mussel.
Join us in the fight to prevent the spread of invasive species These sneaky creatures can hitch a ride on boats, clinging onto propellers, anchor lines, and trailers. They can even survive in hidden places like bilge water and ballast tanks, or disguise themselves in dirt and sand that sticks to nets, buckets, anchors, and waders. But don't worry, we have the power to stop them in their tracks with just a few simple steps. So let's do our part and protect our waters from these unwanted invaders.
What is the average air temp for Lake Monona?
Looking forward to your next adventure at Lake Monona? Don't forget to plan ahead! Weather can be unpredictable, but we've got you covered. On average, air temperatures during this time of year range from a high around 57°F (14°C) to a low around 36°F (2°C). Of course, these are just historical averages, so be prepared for anything Mother Nature throws your way. For the most up-to-date weather information, be sure to check out our Weather Bar located at the top of this page.
Are there any state parks near Lake Monona?
Enjoy more of the outdoors with a visit to an area state park. There are 3 state parks in the vacinity of Lake Monona.
For more Wisconsin State Park information see our State Park Guide.
Lake Monona Reviews
Below is the word on street about Lake Monona.Have you been to Lake Monona? Why not share your personal reveiw with others?
Submit Review
tod h.
Glenbeulah, WI
I have been fishing this lake for over 40 years. Use to be my go to lake when I would skip school and drive to Madison. Great lake for panfish all year round and especially ice fishing in Squaw bay. Have also caught many huge northerns ice fishing on beaver dam tip ups with a big golden shiner. I also got the thrill of a lifetime in the fall of 1977 while catching yellow bass , by the cooler full, off of the north shore in about 12 ft of water. Using a spinning rod, spooled with 6lb test line and a piece of Uncle Josh white pork rind on a plain aberdeen hook, I landed a 67lb. Lake Sturgeon on hook and line. This is a true story and was reported on all TV stations and made the cover of Uncle Josh catalog for 1977. This is a great fishing lake that will always hold a place in my heart. Here's wishing you make your own lifetime memories fishing this special place.
Reviewed May 18, 2020
shane p.
This lake is tough for me. I fish this lake harder than any other lake and i never really have results. I pretty much live out here ice fishing and faithfully in the boat during the summer. i know there are some monster fish in this lake, I've caught two big northerns 38 and 40inches, a couple nices skis around 40inches, my ex caught a PIG ski her first time ever ice fishing(close to 50" 30+lbs), and I've seen what kind of walleyes this lake holds. I know this lake has big fish, can be hard to catch at times.
Reviewed Feb 6, 2013
rev j.
Although I have not fished this lake enough and I have not caught a ton of big fish in it yet, it's hard not to give it 5 stars. I have already caught Musky, Pike, Largemouth, and plenty of other Panfish on Monona. There are definitely 50 inch Musky in there, nice Pike, and pretty much anything else you want to try to catch. Great Lake, but somewhat hard to fish. My advice if you want to make a killing? Hire a guide, would probably be worth it... I should take my own advice :)
Reviewed Jul 15, 2011
More Nearby Lakes To Explore
There's more lake's to explore around Lake Monona...| DISTANCE | ACRES | MAX DEPTH | |
| Upper Mud Lake | 3.0 mi | 218 | 8 ft |
| Lake Wingra | 3.3 mi | 336 | 14 ft |
| Lake Mendota | 4.0 mi | 9,781 | 83 ft |
| Lake Waubesa | 4.3 mi | 2,074 | 38 ft |
| Mud Lake | 6.0 mi | 185 | 15 ft |
| Cherokee Lake | 6.2 mi | 193 | 20 ft |
| Cherokee Marsh | 7.0 mi | 379 | 23 ft |
| Grass Lake | 8.1 mi | 30 | 9 ft |
| Goose Lake | 8.1 mi | 12 | 10 ft |
| Graber Pond | 8.3 mi | 10 |
DISCLAIMER: Lake-Link Inc assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions of the information for Lake Monona. Although we strive to provide the most accurate information as we can the information contained in this page is provided on an "as is" basis with no guarantees of completeness, accuracy, usefulness or timeliness.
