Otter Lake
Macoupin County, Illinois
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Otter Lake is located in north central Macoupin County 6 miles west of Girard, IL.
This water supply lake was built in 1968 by damming the west fork of Otter Creek. A sediment basin was created in the upper end of the lake in 2004 to improve water quality of the main lake. The lake is managed by the Otter Lake Water Commission. Most banks are steep-sided, and many are lined with riprap. The boat ramp is located at mid-lake, on the north side of Emmerson Airline Road, and the park office/bait shop is on the south side of the road. Boat permits are required and may be purchased at the office/bait shop. Otter Lake has a 115 hp motor size limit. The lake is 765 acres, has a shoreline length of 39 miles, a watershed size of 12,985 acres, a maximum depth of 51 feet, and an average depth of 20 feet.
Otter Lake has a 115 hp motor size limit. There is a single boat ramp at mid-lake on the north side of Palmyra blacktop. The site has a concession stand/bait shop, campground, and picnic areas. All live bait in excess of 8" must be rigged with a quick set rig. 2 pole and line fishing only.
Site Regulations:
Largemouth or Smallmouth Bass: 15" minimum length limit, 3 fish daily creel limit
Channel Catfish: 6 fish daily creel limit
Striped, White, or Hybrid Striped Bass: 3 fish 17” or longer; 10 fish daily creel limit
Muskie: 48” minimum length limit; 1 fish daily creel limit
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Frequently Asked Questions About Otter Lake, IL
- How big is Otter Lake?
- How deep is Otter Lake?
- What kind of fish can you catch in Otter Lake?
- What are the closest cities to Otter Lake?
- Are there places to stay in the Otter Lake area?
- Are there topographical lake maps available Otter Lake?
- Are there places to eat and drink near Otter Lake?
- What is the fishing outlook for Otter Lake?
- What is the average air temp for Otter Lake?
- Are there any state parks near Otter Lake?
How big is Otter Lake?
Otter Lake is approximately 765 sq acres (3.1 sq km) in size with 38 miles (61.8 km) of shoreline.
How deep is Otter Lake?
Otter Lake is approximately 51 feet (15.6 m) at its deepest point with an average depth of 20 feet (6.1 m).
What kind of fish can you catch in Otter Lake?
Although thery may be others but anglers can expect to find a variety of fish including Bluegill, Channel Catfish, Hybrid Striped Bass, Largemouth Bass, Muskie, White Bass and White Crappie in Otter Lake.
What are the closest cities to Otter Lake?
Are there places to stay in the Otter Lake 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! Otter Lake 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 Otter Lake?
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 Otter Lake (.pdf format) along with 2,700 more lake maps. For more information on all the benefits of Lake-Link Pro click here.
Are there places to eat and drink near Otter Lake?
Yes, you can find numerous options in the area. Click the button below to see what's nearby.
What is the fishing outlook for Otter Lake?
What does the future look like for Otter Lake? We have some insignt on what to expect for a number of fish species in Otter Lake.
Explore the Otter Lake 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.
History & Status of the Fishery
Approximately 20 species occupy this eutrophic impoundment. Otter Lake receives stockings of 10" to 14" muskie, 4" to 8" largemouth bass, and 2" striped bass hybrids.
Controling Authority
Otter Lake Water Commission
217-965-1566
IDNR Fisheries Biologist, Eric Ratcliff
618-931-4217
217-965-1566
IDNR Fisheries Biologist, Eric Ratcliff
618-931-4217
What is the average air temp for Otter Lake?
Looking forward to your next adventure at Otter Lake? 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 86°F (30°C) to a low around 68°F (20°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 Otter Lake?
Enjoy more of the outdoors with a visit to an area state park. There are 1 state park in the vacinity of Otter Lake.
For more Illinois State Park information see our State Park Guide.
Otter Lake Reviews
Below is the word on street about Otter Lake.Have you been to Otter Lake? Why not share your personal reveiw with others?
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vl f.
Bass Fishing was good on one of the hottest days of the year (July 27)The Lake temperature was in the 80 degree range, Fish were sitting in about 5 to 8 foot of water and right on the bottom near stick ups and laydowns. The Bass were in the 16 inch range but all were released back into the lake right away. But the $10 a day fee for just getting on the lake seems a little steep. But it is a beautiful lake!!!
Reviewed Jul 28, 2002
rob g.
Fishing aint to bad,crappie were hitting good on minnoes.10 dollers a day didn't sit to well.
Reviewed Apr 6, 2002
More Nearby Lakes To Explore
There's more lake's to explore around Otter Lake...| DISTANCE | ACRES | MAX DEPTH | |
| Carlinville Lake #1 | 11.9 mi | 155 | 19 ft |
| Beaver Dam Lake | 14.1 mi | 57 | 10 ft |
| Waverly Lake | 14.4 mi | 112 | |
| Bullard Lake | 14.6 mi | 44 | |
| Greenfield City Lake | 16.2 mi | 59 | |
| Gillespie New City Lake | 18.1 mi | 196 | 30 ft |
| Gillespie Old City Lake | 18.6 mi | 71 | 21 ft |
DISCLAIMER: Lake-Link Inc assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions of the information for Otter Lake. 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.
