Question 1

What is the current water temperature at Otter Lake?

Accepted Answer

The current water temperature at Otter Lake is 64°F as of Invalid date. This temperature reading is based on our advanced satellite monitoring system and real-time data collection. Water temperature is a crucial factor for fishing success and water activities.

Question 2

How often is the Otter Lake water temperature updated?

Accepted Answer

Water temperature data for Otter Lake is updated daily through our satellite monitoring system. The last update was made on Invalid date. We use advanced thermal imaging and surface monitoring technology to provide accurate, real-time temperature readings.

Question 3

What activities are suitable for the current water temperature at Otter Lake?

Accepted Answer

With the current water temperature of 64°F at Otter Lake, conditions are suitable for fishing and boating activities. The temperature typically fluctuates 2-3 degrees throughout the day. This data is monitored via satellite and updated regularly to help you plan your lake activities.

Question 4

How good is the fishing at Otter Lake with the current water temperature?

Accepted Answer

The current water temperature of 64°F at Otter Lake is ideal for catching Northern pike, Walleye. These species are typically most active at this temperature range. For best results, fish during early morning or late evening hours when fish are most active. Always check local fishing regulations and licenses before fishing.

Question 5

What is Otter Lake and what activities are available?

Accepted Answer

Otter Lake is a picturesque impoundment of Otter Creek located in Macoupin County, Illinois, spanning an area of 765 acres. The lake is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts due to its abundant and diverse fish populations, including Largemouth Bass, which is particularly sought after by anglers. However, the lake offers much more than just fishing, with a range of amenities such as a bait shop, picnic areas, and a campground providing visitors with an enjoyable and comfortable experience.

In addition to Largemouth Bass, Otter Lake is home to over 20 other fish species, including Bluegill, Black Crappie, Channel Catfish, and Flathead Catfish, to name a few. The lake's diverse aquatic ecosystem provides an ideal environment for a range of fish species to thrive, making Otter Lake an excellent destination for anglers looking for a variety of fishing experiences.

Apart from fishing, Otter Lake's range of amenities make it a great location for outdoor recreation. Visitors can enjoy picnicking with friends and family, and the campground provides an opportunity for overnight stays, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the tranquil and peaceful surroundings of the lake.

Otter Lake's surrounding forests and vegetation provide a natural habitat for a range of animal species, including deer, raccoons, and a variety of bird species. The lake's serene surroundings and tranquil environment create a relaxing and peaceful atmosphere, making it an excellent destination for nature enthusiasts and visitors looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

In conclusion, Otter Lake is a beautiful and popular impoundment of Otter Creek located in Macoupin County, Illinois. With its abundant and diverse fish populations, the lake provides an excellent fishing experience for anglers looking for a variety of fishing experiences. The lake's range of amenities, including the bait shop, picnic areas, and campground, make it an ideal destination for outdoor recreation, while its tranquil surroundings offer a peaceful and relaxing environment for nature enthusiasts and visitors looking to escape the pressures of modern life.

Question 6

How big and deep is Otter Lake?

Accepted Answer

Otter Lake is a substantial body of water covering 765.00 acres (1.20 square miles) with a maximum depth of 15.54 meters (51 feet). This size and depth make it ideal for various activities including and water recreation.

Question 7

What are the current conditions at Otter Lake?

Accepted Answer

Current conditions at Otter Lake as of May 10, 2025: 
      Water temperature is 64°F, 
      weather is MostlyCloudy, 
      and water clarity is typical for the season. 
      These conditions are regularly updated to help you plan your visit.

Question 8

When is the best time to fish at Otter Lake?

Accepted Answer

The best fishing times at Otter Lake vary by season:
      Spring (March-May): Spring fishing at the lake is excellent for Largemouth bass, Bluegill, Channel catfish, Northern pike, Walleye. Focus on shallow areas warming up first, and use light tackle as fish become more active after winter.
      Summer (June-August): During summer months, fish are most active early morning and late evening. Look for Largemouth bass, Bluegill, Channel catfish, Northern pike, Walleye in deeper, cooler waters during mid-day.
      Fall (September-November): Fall brings excellent fishing opportunities as Largemouth bass, Bluegill, Channel catfish, Northern pike, Walleye feed heavily before winter. Focus on areas with falling water temperatures.
      Winter (December-February): Ice fishing is popular during winter months. Target Largemouth bass, Bluegill, Channel catfish, Northern pike, Walleye in shallower bays and near structure, always ensuring safe ice conditions.
      Additionally, early morning and late evening typically offer the best fishing conditions.

Question 9

What facilities and access points are available at Otter Lake?

Accepted Answer

Otter Lake offers the following facilities and amenities:

Please note that some facilities may have seasonal hours or closures. Check current conditions and regulations before your visit.

Question 10

What types of fish can I catch at Otter Lake?

Accepted Answer

Otter Lake is home to Largemouth bass, Bluegill, Channel catfish, Northern pike, Walleye. Each species has specific patterns and preferences that can help you plan your fishing trip effectively.

Question 11

What are the best techniques and times to catch Largemouth bass at Otter Lake?

Accepted Answer

For Largemouth bass at Otter Lake:
- Best seasons: Spring, Fall
- Active times: Dawn, Dusk
- Preferred water temperature: 65-80°F
- Typical depth: Shallow in spring/fall, deeper in summer
- Habitat: Lakes, Ponds, Rivers, Reservoirs
- Spawning season: Late Spring

Recommended techniques:
- Fishing methods: Pitching and flipping, Trolling, Casting
- Effective lures: Plastic worms, Crankbaits, Spinnerbaits
- Natural bait options: Shiners, Frogs, Worms

Tackle recommendations:
- Rod: Medium-heavy power rod
- Reel: Baitcasting reel
- Line: 10-20 lb test

Question 12

What are the best techniques and times to catch Bluegill at Otter Lake?

Accepted Answer

For Bluegill at Otter Lake:
- Best seasons: Spring, Summer
- Active times: Morning, Afternoon
- Preferred water temperature: 69-75°F
- Typical depth: 1-10 feet in spring, 10-20 feet in summer
- Habitat: Lakes, Ponds, Streams
- Spawning season: Late Spring to Early Summer

Recommended techniques:
- Fishing methods: Bobber fishing, Casting
- Effective lures: Small jigs, Spinnerbaits
- Natural bait options: Worms, Crickets

Tackle recommendations:
- Rod: Ultralight power rod
- Reel: Spinning reel
- Line: 2-6 lb test

Question 13

What are the best techniques and times to catch Channel catfish at Otter Lake?

Accepted Answer

For Channel catfish at Otter Lake:
- Best seasons: Spring, Summer
- Active times: Night
- Preferred water temperature: 70-85°F
- Typical depth: 5-15 feet in spring, 15-30 feet in summer
- Habitat: Lakes, Rivers, Ponds
- Spawning season: Late Spring to Early Summer

Recommended techniques:
- Fishing methods: Bottom fishing
- Effective lures: None commonly used
- Natural bait options: Cut bait, Stink bait, Liver

Tackle recommendations:
- Rod: Medium-heavy to heavy power rod
- Reel: Baitcasting reel
- Line: 10-30 lb test

Question 14

What are the best techniques and times to catch Northern pike at Otter Lake?

Accepted Answer

For Northern pike at Otter Lake:
- Best seasons: Spring, Fall
- Active times: Morning, Afternoon
- Preferred water temperature: 55-70°F
- Typical depth: 3-12 feet in spring, 10-25 feet in summer
- Habitat: Lakes, Rivers, Marshes
- Spawning season: Early Spring

Recommended techniques:
- Fishing methods: Casting, Trolling
- Effective lures: Spoons, Spinners, Swimbaits
- Natural bait options: Live fish

Tackle recommendations:
- Rod: Medium-heavy to heavy rod
- Reel: Spinning or baitcasting reel
- Line: 20-40 lb test

Question 15

What are the best techniques and times to catch Walleye at Otter Lake?

Accepted Answer

For Walleye at Otter Lake:
- Best seasons: Spring, Fall
- Active times: Dawn, Dusk
- Preferred water temperature: 50-70°F
- Typical depth: 10-20 feet in spring, 20-40 feet in summer
- Habitat: Lakes, Rivers, Reservoirs
- Spawning season: Spring

Recommended techniques:
- Fishing methods: Jigging, Bottom bouncing, Trolling
- Effective lures: Jigs, Deep diving crankbaits, Spinner rigs
- Natural bait options: Minnows, Leeches, Nightcrawlers

Tackle recommendations:
- Rod: Medium power rod
- Reel: Spinning reel
- Line: 6-12 lb test

Question 16

What are the best fishing seasons at Otter Lake?

Accepted Answer

Spring: Best for catching Largemouth bass, Bluegill, Channel catfish, Northern pike, Walleye

Fall: Best for catching Largemouth bass, Northern pike, Walleye

Summer: Best for catching Bluegill, Channel catfish

Question 17

What water recreation activities are available at Otter Lake?

Accepted Answer

Otter Lake offers various recreational opportunities including:
      - Fishing

Additional lake information:
      - Lake size: 765.00 acres (1.20 square miles)
      - Maximum depth: 15.54 meters

The lake is particularly suitable for fishing and boating 
      during current conditions. Always check weather forecasts and local regulations before activities.

Question 18

What's the best time to visit Otter Lake, and how's the weather?

Accepted Answer

The best time to visit Otter Lake depends on your planned activities:
      - Summer (June-August): Ideal for swimming, boating, and water sports
      - Spring/Fall: Excellent fishing and fewer crowds
      - Winter: Ice fishing when conditions permit
      Current weather is MostlyCloudy. 
      Check our real-time updates for water temperature and conditions before your visit.

Question 19

What permits and regulations should I know about for Otter Lake?

Accepted Answer

For Otter Lake, you should be aware of:
      - Fishing license requirements (check state regulations)
      - Boat registration requirements

For specific requirements and current regulations:
      
      - Contact local authorities
      - Visit the DNR website

Question 20

What is the water temperature at Otter Lake in January?

Accepted Answer

In January, the water temperature at Otter Lake is approximately 37.70°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 21

What is the water temperature at Otter Lake in February?

Accepted Answer

In February, the water temperature at Otter Lake is approximately 38.00°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 22

What is the water temperature at Otter Lake in March?

Accepted Answer

In March, the water temperature at Otter Lake is approximately 43.71°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 23

What is the water temperature at Otter Lake in April?

Accepted Answer

In April, the water temperature at Otter Lake is approximately 54.07°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 24

What is the water temperature at Otter Lake in May?

Accepted Answer

In May, the water temperature at Otter Lake is approximately 67.29°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 25

What is the water temperature at Otter Lake in June?

Accepted Answer

In June, the water temperature at Otter Lake is approximately 72.67°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 26

What is the water temperature at Otter Lake in July?

Accepted Answer

In July, the water temperature at Otter Lake is approximately 83.50°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 27

What is the water temperature at Otter Lake in August?

Accepted Answer

In August, the water temperature at Otter Lake is approximately 77.24°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 28

What is the water temperature at Otter Lake in September?

Accepted Answer

In September, the water temperature at Otter Lake is approximately 76.57°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 29

What is the water temperature at Otter Lake in October?

Accepted Answer

In October, the water temperature at Otter Lake is approximately 67.57°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 30

What is the water temperature at Otter Lake in November?

Accepted Answer

In November, the water temperature at Otter Lake is approximately 53.21°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 31

What is the water temperature at Otter Lake in December?

Accepted Answer

In December, the water temperature at Otter Lake is approximately 41.14°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 32

What are the current fishing conditions at Otter Lake?

Accepted Answer

Current water temperature at Otter Lake is 64°F. 
        These conditions are ideal for catching Northern pike, Walleye.

Question 33

What is the maximum depth of Otter Lake?

Accepted Answer

Otter Lake has a maximum depth of 15.54 meters (51 feet). This depth provides excellent habitat for various fish species and supports diverse aquatic life. The lake's depth profile makes it suitable for both shallow-water fishing and deep-water activities.

Question 34

How big is Otter Lake?

Accepted Answer

Otter Lake covers an area of 765.00 acres (1.20 square miles) at full pool. The lake is currently holding 583.79 acres of water, which represents 76.3% of its total capacity. This substantial size makes it an important recreational resource for Macoupin County, offering extensive opportunities for fishing, boating, and other water activities.

Question 35

Where is Otter Lake located?

Accepted Answer

Otter Lake is located in Girard, Macoupin County, IL. The lake is accessible to the public and serves as a popular destination for outdoor activities. Its location in Macoupin County makes it easily accessible from Girard and surrounding communities.

Question 36

What is the current water level at Otter Lake?

Accepted Answer

Otter Lake is currently holding 583.79 acres of water, compared to its full capacity of 765.00 acres. This represents 76.3% of its total capacity. Water levels are good for most recreational activities. These water levels are monitored regularly and impact various recreational activities on the lake.

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