Dolan Lake
Location 75 acres
Fishing Outlook
Channel Catfish
Very Good
During fall of 2025, a targeted catfish survey was completed using baited hoop nets, which yielded a sample of 68 Channel Catfish. Catfish in the sample ranged in length from 9.5 to 26.2 inches, the largest weighing in at 7 lbs. Roughly 1/3 of catfish were juveniles under 12 inches. Length-at-age data derived from pectoral spines demonstrated that catfish were roughly 10-12 inches at age-1.5, 14-16 inches at age-2.5, 16-20 inches at age-3.5, and 17-21 inches at age-4.5. Mean body condition (relative weight) was 88, below the management target of 90. Relative weights were particularly low among size groups 18 inches and under. In summary, the combination of relatively slow growth and suboptimal body condition among smaller catfish suggests that the stocking rate is too high. Thus, stockings will be reduced from 3000 to 2000 fish annually to improve growth potential among stocked catfish.
Largemouth Bass
Excellent
A strong and well balanced bass population exists at Dolan Lake. Size structure is excellent with fish ranging from young of the year to greater than 18 inches. Bass abundance is extremely good as the average number caught in recent samples is 148 bass per hour of electrofishing. The current bass fishing regulation of one fish per day over 18 inches in total length will continue to protect this growing fishery. Improvement in bass size structure should continue as the bass population develops and excellent bass fishing opportunities are expected at Dolan Lake. Site Regulation: One fish per day over 18 inches.
Crappie spp.
Good
Crappie abundance at Dolan Lake continues to increase. Abundance of smaller fish has increased, but nine to ten inch crappie are present with some individuals exceeding 12 inches in total length. Crappie fishing at Dolan Lake is expected to be good. Site Regulation: 25 fish creel limit applies with only 10 fish over 10 inches allowed.
Bluegill
Very Good
Bluegill size structure continues to improve and catchable fish are 6.5 to 8 inches in length with some individuals exceeding eight inches. Bluegill fishing at Dolan Lake is expected to be good to excellent.Site Regulation: A daily catch limit of 25 Bluegill or redear sunfish applies.
| 2025 | Channel Catfish | Advanced Fingerling (4 - 7") | 7000 |
| 2024 | Channel Catfish | NonVulnerable (8 - 10") | 2100 |
| 2023 | Channel Catfish | Advanced Fingerling (4 - 7") | 3500 |
Contact
Description
In 1962, an earthen dam was constructed impounding approximately 75 acres of water. The lake has a shoreline distance of 3 miles and a maximum depth of 15 feet. Due to poor fishing and an abundance of undesirable fish species, the lake was drained and restocked with sport fish in 2005.Fishery History
Currently, the lake supports desirable fisheries for Largemouth Bass, Channel Catfish, Crappie, and Bluegill. The lake is stocked annually with Channel Catfish to maintain a high quality fishery.Site Regulations
- All Fish: 2 pole and line fishing only and each pole must not have more than 2 hooks or lures attached while fishing
- Bluegill or Redear Sunfish: 25 Fish Daily Harvest Limit
- Channel Catfish: 6 Fish Daily Harvest Limit
- Large or Smallmouth Bass: 18 inch Minimum Length Limit; 1 Fish Daily Harvest Limit
There is a 10 horsepower or less outboard motor restriction.
Additional Information
Planning to eat your catch? Fish Consumption Advisory information can be found here: Fish Consumption Advisory PageBath Map
