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Boating At Lake Mendota In Wisconsin

By AA-Boats & Boating Staff Writers

Lake Mendota, Wisconsin

Free Public Boating & Watersport Activities

Lake Mendota, situated in Madison, Wisconsin, is the largest lake in the Yahara River chain and one of the most popular recreational destinations in the area. Its convenient location in the heart of Madison makes it easily accessible to both residents and tourists.

There are plenty of nearby attractions to enjoy around Lake Mendota. The University of Wisconsin-Madison campus is located nearby, offering cultural events, museums, and beautiful green spaces for visitors to explore. Additionally, the vibrant downtown area of Madison is just a short distance away, providing a variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options.

Boating is a very popular activity on Lake Mendota, and there are several marinas along the shoreline that offer boat slips and services for boaters. Whether it's sailing, kayaking, or cruising on a pontoon boat, there's something for every water enthusiast to enjoy.

There are several boat launch ramps available, providing easy access to the lake for those looking to bring their own watercraft.

Visitors can also rent boats from local businesses, which offers a convenient way to experience the beauty of Lake Mendota without the commitment of boat ownership.

The boating season on Lake Mendota typically runs from late spring to early fall, providing ample time for residents and visitors to enjoy the water during the warmer months.

Fishing is a favorite pastime on Lake Mendota, as the lake is home to various species, including walleye, muskie, northern pike, and panfish. Anglers can find plenty of fishing opportunities throughout the lake.

While camping is not available directly on Lake Mendota, there are nearby campgrounds and parks where visitors can enjoy a night under the stars after a day of boating and fishing on the lake.

Boating, camping and fishing.

Come enjoy the vast boating and fishing waters of Lake Mendota for traditional boating and fishing in warm months and ice fishing during the really cold months. Mendota Lake is conveniently located in the south-central part of the state, at Madison. Boat rentals, including fishing boats, pleasure boats, pontoons, canoes, kayaks and jet skis are available at a half dozen places. Marinas, stores, lodging, restaurants, camping and most amenities are available at or near the lake. Bragging size smallmouth, walleye and northern pike attract anglers to this 10,000-acre lake which also has populations of largemouth bass, catfish, crappie, muskie, white bass, perch and sunfish. For anglers and outdoor enthusiasts there is over 21 miles of shoreline to explore and fish. Access to the shore for bank fishing is via a dozen or so parks and boat landings around the lake.

Area Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES

Camping

Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby

Mendota Reservoir Map

Fishing

Fish species found in Lake Mendota include largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, black crappie, white crappie, walleye, bluegill, green sunfish, pumpkinseed sunfish, rock bass, white bass, yellow perch, musky and northern pike.

Largemouth bass Smallmouth bass Channel catfish Black crappie White crappie Walleye Bluegill Green Sunfish Pumpkinseed Sunfish Rock Bass White Bass Yellow Perch Muskie Northern pike

Click here for a WI Fishing License.

Local Contact Information

Mendota County Park Campground
5133 Co Hwy M
Middleton, WI 53562
608 224-3730

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