Fishing is a popular family activity throughout the nation, and Morgan County's no different. If you're not sure where to find publicly accessible fishing spots in Morgan County, we've got you covered. Here's our handy list, below. Be sure to purchase a license first, or take advantage of Indiana's Free Fishing Days, and check current state regulations and size limits. The Indiana Department of Natural Resources has announced four free fishing days for 2024 - May 12, June 1, June 2 and Sept. 28. These are a great way to try out the activity to see if it's a good fit for your family without a lot of investment in licenses, if needed. In Indiana, a daily license can be purchased for $9, or annual licenses can be purchased for $17 (resident) or $35 (non-resident). Licenses are not required for Indiana residents born before April 1, 1943 or any children under the age of 18. More on state regulations, and exemptions, can be found at IN.gov/dnr. All locations listed below are public property, and can be easily accessed for fishing.
Morgan-Monroe State Forest
There are three fishable lakes inside Morgan-Monroe State Forest. The first is located at the entrance to the forest, off of Old State Highway 37. Bryant Creek Lake is the largest of the three at nine acres. There is boat ramp access to the lake, however boats are limited to trolling motors only. Cherry Lake is located near the Forest Office. Small boats are welcome on the four acre lake and a small ramp is available. Prather Lake is also about four acres and is not accessible by car, so you must hike in with your fishing gear.
Old Town Waverly Park
Old Town Waverly Park offers fishing access on the West Fork of the White River. The park and its White River Greenway Trail run alongside the river's shoreline for more than two miles. There is a fishing node on the trail specifically designated for fishing, though there are a few other spots that are fishable as well. There is now a launching ramp inside the park as well, near the beginning of the paved trail.
Jimmy Nash City Park
Perfect for fishing with kids, the fishing pond at Martinsville's Jimmy Nash City Park is small enough to easily walk around and the shoreline is accessible all the way around the lake. The pond is located on the north end of the main parking lot, immediately across from the Family Pavilion and playground, making it a great place to take the little ones - they can head for the play equipment once they get bored with fishing. This is a catch and release fishing pond.
White River Public Access Areas
There are three public access areas along the West Fork of the White River in Morgan County.
Henderson Ford Road
The public access point off Henderson Ford Road is located on the east side of the bridge over the White River. There is both launching ramp and shoreline access.
Three Rivers Public Fishing Area
The Three Rivers Public Fishing Area is located just off Highway 67, about four miles north of Martinsville. Shoreline access only.
Paragon Road
The third public access point is located near the bridge on Paragon Road, about two miles south of Paragon. Boat launching ramp and shoreline access is available.
If You Go:
Be prepared if you head out for a fishing adventure - pack a small cooler with water or other drinks to enjoy while you're out fishing. Snacks are always a great idea too. If you need to fuel up before or after your adventure, head for one of the area's locally-owned independent eateries, or order up some carryout to pick up on the way for an impromptu picnic! .
