Pyramid State Park - Pintail Lake
Location 25 acres
Fishing Outlook
Largemouth Bass
Excellent
Results from the 2024 electrofishing survey continue to indicate an excellent Largemouth Bass fishery. During the survey, bass were captured at a high rate of 198/hour and demonstrated a desirable size structure. Of the bass collected, 58% were at least 15" and 15% exceeded 18 inches. Good bass growth in Pintail Lake is likely driven by the presence of Gizzard Shad and an abundance of small Bluegill.
Channel Catfish
Developing
Results from the initial fish population survey in 2022 indicated that Channel Catfish were not present in the lake. Therefore, annual stockings of non-vulnerable (8-10") Channel Catfish were initiated in 2024 to establish a population and enhance fishing opportunities.
Bluegill
Poor
Size structure of Bluegill remains poor in Pintail Lake, as none over 6.5" were collected in the 2024 fish population survey. Bluegill rarely grow well in small lakes when Gizzard Shad and Common Carp are present, which happens to be the case in Pintail Lake.
Crappie spp.
Average
A total of 48 Black Crappie and two White Crappie were collected during the 2024 electrofishing survey. The Black Crappie population seems to be skewed toward smaller fish, as all except one were under 8.6" in length. The one outlier Black crappie measured 12.9". The two White crappie collected measured 8.9" and 13.0". Although the crappie population appears skewed to smaller individuals, a small proportion of quality fish are present.
| 2025 | Channel Catfish | NonVulnerable (8 - 10") | 302 |
| 2024 | Channel Catfish | NonVulnerable (8 - 10") | 240 |
Contact
618-357-2574
Description
Pintail Lake is a 25-acre strip mine lake with deep, clear water and abundant submerged vegetation. There is a gravel boat launch, but no dock or bathroom facilities. There is decent shoreline access for bank anglers, especially near the boat ramp.Fishery History
Pintail Lake harbors an excellent Largemouth Bass population with high abundance and a desirable size structure. Black Crappie and White Crappie are present but appear to be mostly comprised of small fish under 9 inches in length. Bluegill size structure is poor due to competition with Gizzard Shad, Common Carp, and small crappie. Based on fish population surveys, Channel Catfish were not present historically. Therefore, annual Channel Catfish stockings were initiated in 2024 to establish a population and increase angling opportunities.Site Regulations
There is no motor horsepower limit at Pyramid, however all boats must be operated at no-wake speed.
Fishing is prohibited from November 1 through the last day of February.
Site-Specific Fishing Regulations:
- Recreational Use Restriction: Waterfowl Refuge or Hunting Area (see above)
- 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
Bath Map
