Wilson Lake
Wilson, Kansas

Photo courtesy of www.nwk.usace.army.mil/wilson/wilson_home.htm

Wilson Lake, located on the Saline River, controls a drainage area of 1,917 square miles. The grassland drainage basin above Wilson makes it one of the clearest lakes in Kansas. With 9,000 acres of water and 100 miles of shoreline, it has become one of the most popular recreation areas in central Kansas. During periods of heavy rain the lake increases in size as runoff is stored, providing downstream flood protection. Recreation, fish and wildlife enhancement, and water quality are also benefits of the lake.

 
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In addition to the more common recreational activities such as fishing , boating, swimming, picnicking, and camping, Wilson Lake and the surrounding area is noted for its abundance of fish and wildlife. The lake is stocked with millions of fish including walleye, white bass, smallmouth bass, and striped bass. The striped bass, an ocean native, reaches weights of over 40 pounds in the lake's salty waters.

The lake attracts thousands of waterfowl in the spring and fall, and bald eagles often winter around the lake. Ring-necked pheasants, bobwhites, white-tailed deer, and cottontails provide a challenge for fall hunters. More than 9,000 acres of land are open to hunting at Wilson. The rugged scenic hills surrounding the clear lake water are a favorite area for hikers and backpackers.

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Kansas Fishing reports can be found here:
http://www.lasr.net/lasr/kansas/reports/index.html

Populations of many game fish species have been enhanced by a stocking program conducted by the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks. Good channel and flathead catfish can be found in the lake.  Worms, minnows, shad and crayfish are preferred baits. A good population of crappie can be found in wooded coves and submerged brush piles using jigs and live minnows.  The best times for crappie fishing are spring and late fall.  Brush pile fish attractors have been added to the lake to enhance crappie habitat. Good numbers of largemouth bass are caught near brushy cover, so anglers should concentrate their efforts near standing timber and brush piles.  We recommend using worms, crankbaits, and spinner baits. In early April, good numbers of walleye can be taken off the face of the dam.  Try the mudflats during May and June.  Jigs, spoons, and trolling baits are effective. Good numbers of smallmouth bass are also present and may be caught near rocky points. The striped bass, an ocean native, reaches weights of over 40 pounds in the lake's salty water.  State records for smallmouth bass, striped bass, and walleye have been set at Wilson Lake. 

Wilson Lake Marina

The Lake Wilson Marina is located in the Wilson State Park at Wilson Lake.  Owners, Terry and Roberta Favinger offer a wide variety of items including groceries, live bait,  and fishing and camping supplies.  The Lake Wilson Marina is an authorized Mercury and Mercruiser dealer.  There are 150 rental slips available and the price varies according to the size of the craft.  They also offer boat and jet ski rental.  Fuel is  available on the water along with a floating dump station for your convenience.  If you would like to contact the Marina the address, phone and fax numbers are listed below.

RR 1 Box 163
Sylvan Grove, KS. 67481
Phone #: 785-658-2392
Fax #: 785-658-2450

Boaters on Wilson Lake will enjoy the large main body of the lake on calm days for water skiing and pleasure boating.  Sail boaters can find plenty of room to maneuver on Wilson Lake as well.  Lake Wilson Marina provides fuel, mooring facilities and supplies.  A day use fee of $2 is required to launch at the Corps managed boat ramps in Minooka Park and the Spillway Boat Ramp.  In lieu of the daily permit an annual pass may be purchased for $25.  This pass is good at any Corps of Engineers facility nationwide.  The state parks require a $4 motor vehicle entrance permit.

 Boaters should be aware that hazardous boating areas do occur on Wilson Lake.  When in doubt, ask an experienced boater and go slowly.  Be sure to carry a life jacket for everyone on board or being towed.  It's the law, and it's water wise.

Wilson State Park is considered by many to be the most beautiful in the state. Located in the heart of the Smoky Hills approximately 25 miles east of Russell, Wilson is divided into two areas that offer both utility and primitive camping. Water hookups and shower buildings are available from April through September, and frost-free hydrants and several vault toilets are open in the winter months.

The park and surrounding wildlife area offer the opportunity to view and photograph deer, pheasant, waterfowl, songbirds, and furbearers. Hunting is allowed on the wildlife area during season. Wilson Reservoir is also one of the state's best fishing lakes and is especially known for excellent white bass and striped bass angling.

Hiking on the Dakota Trail offers an excellent view of the lake and native Kansas prairie. Sand volleyball, basketball, and horseshoes are favorite outdoor sports. Each summer, the park also hosts various special events and interpretive programs by appointment: A new mountain bike trail provides a great opportunity for bicyclists.

For more information, contact
Wilson State Park, Rt. 1, Box 181,
Sylvan Grove, KS 67481, (785) 658-2465.

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