Pyramid State Park - Crystal Pond
Location 5 acres
Fishing Outlook
Bluegill
Poor
54 Bluegill were collected during the 2022 survey, of which only two were over 7 inches. Crystal Lake harbors an abundance of Gizzard Shad, which compete with Bluegill for the same food sources and often negatively impact their growth.
Largemouth Bass
Good
Crystal Lake appears to have a decent bass population. During the 2022 survey, several bass in the 11"-17" range were collected. The largest bass was over 20" and weighed nearly 5 lbs.
Channel Catfish
Developing
Channel Catfish have been stocked annually in Crystal Lake. None were collected during the 2022 survey. However, electrofishing is not always effective for sampling catfish, especially in deeper lakes like strip cuts.
| 2025 | Channel Catfish | NonVulnerable (8 - 10") | 158 |
| 2024 | Channel Catfish | NonVulnerable (8 - 10") | 90 |
Contact
618-357-2574
Description
Crystal lake is a 5-acre strip cut that has a gravel boat launch and dock. There are also several benches overlooking the lake at various locations.Fishery History
The only fish population survey at Crystal Lake occurred in 2022. Gizzard Shad were abundant in the survey and most exceeded 9 inches in length. Thus, bass size structure was desirable, with the largest measuring 20.7 inches. However, Bluegill size structure was poor, likely due to competition with shad. The largest Bluegill measured 7.2 inches. Channel Catfish are stocked annually, but none were collected. The steep-sided nature of strip mine lakes often makes it difficult to collect Channel Catfish using electrofishing.Site Regulations
There is no motor horsepower limit at Pyramid, however all boats must be operated at no-wake speed.
Fishing is allowed year-round at Crystal Lake.
Site-Specific Fishing Regulations:
- All Fish: 2 pole and line fishing only and each pole must not have more than 2 hooks or lures attached while fishing; bow fishing is allowed
- Bluegill or Redear Sunfish: 25 Fish Daily Harvest Limit
- Channel Catfish: 6 Fish Daily Harvest Limit
- Large or Smallmouth Bass: 6 Fish Daily Harvest Limit (statewide regulation)
- White, Black, or Hybrid Crappie: 25 Fish Daily Harvest Limit
Additional Information
Planning to eat your catch? Fish Consumption Advisory information can be found here: Fish Consumption Advisory Page