List of five of the best places to fish in Indianapolis, within a short drive from Indianapolis for smallmouth bass based on habitat, access, family fishing
There's no better time to find a few good places to fish in Indianapolis (or within a short drive from the city) for smallmouth bass. When the trout streams get too warm for fishing, smallmouth bass are still more than willing to take small in-line spinners or a "match the hatch" offering at the end of your fly line.
1. Riverside Park
The pond at Riverside Park is one of the best places to fish in Indianapolis with the kids for smallmouth bass -- there's a chance you could land a largemouth bass, catfish, or crappie here as well. Experienced anglers can launch shallow draft vessels and non-motorized watercraft via the park ramp on Broad Ripple Avenue and fish the White River.
2. Driftwood River, Columbus Township
While the Driftwood River isn't located directly in the city of Indianapolis, the drive takes less an hour on I-65 and can be well worth the trip. If you're wondering where to fish for smallmouth bass, this 16-mile river has a top-notch reputation due to the fact that it has several deep holes, rocky bottom, and plenty of wood structure.
3. Flatrock River
While you'll have to drive about 45 minutes south from Indianapolis to get to the Flatrock River, it's a worthwhile trip if you want to catch smallmouth bass. You can use the canoe launch at Owens Bend Park, just north of Columbus and paddle down to the US Hwy 31 bridge just west of Columbus
4. Sugar Creek
You are likely to find smallmouth bass in better than average numbers if you make the 24-mile trip to Sugar Creek from Indianapolis. Due to flow and the amount of rocks, it is considered to be one of the prime smallmouth fishing spots in Indiana.
5. Big Blue River
This scenic Harrison County stream is less an hour's drive from Indianapolis. Surrounded by lush forest and limestone bluffs, the Blue River is best for canoe or kayak anglers. The deep corner pools, shallow runs, and large boulders make up the ideal environment for smallmouth bass.
Pick one of these best places to fish in Indianapolis for smallmouth bass, get your Indiana fishing license online, pack your tackle, and load up the canoe.
