Thousands of years ago, glacier movement and melting created Lake Wawasee, Indiana's largest natural lake. Nestled among rolling hills, the elevation can reach 1,000 feet. A dam was built to help to maintain a normal elevation of 859 feet.

Lake Wawasee covers 3,410 acres with deep and refreshing waters bound by a 25-mile shoreline, which is nearly fully developed with residential homes and commercial enterprises. Eleven acres of parks provide areas of relaxation for city dwellers.

Fishing

Anglers find an abundance of bluegill, yellow perch, largemouth bass, redear sunfish, yellow bullhead (some at 15+ inches), black crappie and northern pike.

Wawasee and other nearby lakes sponsor day and night bass fishing tournaments, throughout the year,

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) manages Wawasee Family Fishing Area. This 10-acre park features handicapped-accessible facilities.

Boat rentals, boat repair shops and bait and tackle shops located around the lake provide most all the services needed by boaters and anglers, alike.

  Search Lake Wawasee Resources
     Coordinates:
41.3974N -85.7008W
Map It:
Lake Type:
Glacial
Surface Area:
3,410 acres
Maximum Depth:
22 ft
Elevation:
859 ft
Normal Water Clarity:
3 - 6 ft
Major City:
Fort Wayne
Airport:
Fort Wayne

Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation, along with the help of local organizations, have maintained water quality to ensure excellent fishing, boating and lakeside living.

Lake Wawasee enforces no horse power or speed limits for motorboats, which attracts speed boaters and water sports' enthusiasts. The Indiana DNR maintains one public launch ramp on the South shore. Additional boat ramps and several marinas are found around the lake along the shoreline. Henry Ward Park and Lakeside Park offer public access ramps from Syracuse.

"The Sandbar" is a shallow area of the lake for boats to anchor while families enjoy taking a dip in the glistening water of only 3 to 4 feet deep.

Every Sunday during the summer, Lake Wawasee invites boaters to get out on the water for one of several inspirational and relaxing 'boat-in" worship services held around the lake.

• IN Fishing Licenses
• IN Fish Consumption Advisories
• Indiana Department of Natural Resources