Kansas · Fishing
Fishing in ozawkie, Kansas
Ozawkie sits on the western shore of Clinton Lake, and the fishing here is straightforward reservoir fishing done well. The lake is the main draw, and the two surf fishing spots in the activity list — Longview and Old Town — give you shoreline access without needing a boat.
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View on mapFishing · 3 spots
Ozawkie sits on the western shore of Clinton Lake, and the fishing here is straightforward reservoir fishing done well. The lake is the main draw, and the two surf fishing spots in the activity list — Longview and Old Town — give you shoreline access without needing a boat. Rock Creek Marina & Resort rounds things out with river fishing access, which is worth knowing about if you want a change of pace from open-water casting. Clinton Lake holds largemouth bass, crappie, white bass, channel catfish, and walleye, so the species mix is solid enough to keep most anglers busy across seasons. Spring and fall tend to be the most productive windows, when water temperatures push fish into shallower areas that shoreline anglers can actually reach. Summer fishing is slower during midday heat but picks up in the early morning and again after sunset, especially for catfish. The area is accessible to beginners — surf fishing from Longview or Old Town requires minimal gear and no boat — but experienced anglers targeting walleye or bass will want to put in time learning the lake's structure. A valid Kansas fishing license is required for anyone 16 and older.
Frequently asked questions
What fish can I expect to catch around Ozawkie?
Clinton Lake supports largemouth bass, crappie, white bass, channel catfish, and walleye. The surf fishing spots at Longview and Old Town are particularly productive for catfish and crappie from the bank, while walleye and bass tend to reward anglers who can work deeper structure.
Do I need a boat, or can I fish from shore?
You can fish from shore. Both Longview and Old Town are listed as surf fishing access points, meaning bank fishing is a legitimate option at both locations. Rock Creek Marina & Resort is your best starting point if you want to rent a boat or get river fishing access.
What time of day is best for fishing here?
Early morning and the couple of hours before dark are consistently the most productive windows, especially in summer when midday heat pushes fish deeper. Catfish are a reliable target after sunset from the shoreline spots at Longview and Old Town.
What gear should I bring for a shoreline fishing trip?
A medium-action spinning rod in the 6 to 7 foot range handles most situations at Clinton Lake. Bring a variety of weights for bottom rigs if you're targeting catfish, and a few jigs or soft plastics if you want to work for bass or crappie. A cooler and a valid Kansas fishing license are non-negotiable.
Is this a good destination for beginners?
Yes, particularly the surf fishing access at Longview and Old Town. You don't need a boat, specialized gear, or deep local knowledge to catch fish from the bank. Channel catfish are forgiving targets for newer anglers — a simple bottom rig with cut bait or chicken liver gets results without much technique required.
