
Lake Monona
Lake Monona is a stunning 3,359-acre lake located in Dane County, Wisconsin. It is a popular recreational destination for visitors from across the state, thanks to its numerous public access points, including public boat landings and beaches. The lake's maximum depth of 74 feet and moderately clear water make it an ideal location for a variety of water-based activities, including swimming, boating, and fishing. Lake Monona is home to a wide variety of fish species, including Musky, Panfish, Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Northern Pike, Walleye, Sturgeon, and Catfish. The Musky population in Lake Monona is particularly robust, with anglers coming from far and wide to try their luck at catching one of these trophy-sized fish. In addition, the lake's healthy population of Largemouth Bass and Smallmouth Bass provides plenty of action for anglers of all skill levels. Lake Monona is also an important cultural and historical landmark in the region. It is part of the Yahara River chain of lakes, which also includes Lakes Mendota, Waubesa, and Kegonsa. These interconnected bodies of water played an important role in the lives of the region's Native American tribes, who relied on them for fishing, transportation, and trade. Today, Lake Monona and the other Yahara chain lakes continue to serve as important economic, cultural, and recreational resources for the surrounding communities. Visitors to Lake Monona can enjoy a wide range of recreational activities, both on and off the water. In addition to fishing, boating, and swimming, the lake is a popular destination for kayaking, paddleboarding, and other water sports. The shoreline is also home to numerous parks and picnic areas, as well as scenic hiking and biking trails. The area surrounding the lake is rich in history and culture, with numerous museums, galleries, and other cultural attractions within easy reach. In summary, Lake Monona is a beautiful and vibrant natural resource that offers a wide range of recreational opportunities for visitors of all ages and interests. Its clear waters, healthy fish populations, and numerous public access points make it a popular destination for anglers, boaters, and swimmers, while its cultural and historical significance add to its appeal as a destination for those interested in history, art, and culture.
Read more
Lake Monona
Lake Monona is a stunning 3,359-acre lake located in Dane County, Wisconsin. It is a popular recreational destination for visitors from across the state, thanks to its numerous public access points, including public boat landings and beaches. The lake's maximum depth of 74 feet and moderately clear water make it an ideal location for a variety of water-based activities, including swimming, boating, and fishing. Lake Monona is home to a wide variety of fish species, including Musky, Panfish, Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Northern Pike, Walleye, Sturgeon, and Catfish. The Musky population in Lake Monona is particularly robust, with anglers coming from far and wide to try their luck at catching one of these trophy-sized fish. In addition, the lake's healthy population of Largemouth Bass and Smallmouth Bass provides plenty of action for anglers of all skill levels. Lake Monona is also an important cultural and historical landmark in the region. It is part of the Yahara River chain of lakes, which also includes Lakes Mendota, Waubesa, and Kegonsa. These interconnected bodies of water played an important role in the lives of the region's Native American tribes, who relied on them for fishing, transportation, and trade. Today, Lake Monona and the other Yahara chain lakes continue to serve as important economic, cultural, and recreational resources for the surrounding communities. Visitors to Lake Monona can enjoy a wide range of recreational activities, both on and off the water. In addition to fishing, boating, and swimming, the lake is a popular destination for kayaking, paddleboarding, and other water sports. The shoreline is also home to numerous parks and picnic areas, as well as scenic hiking and biking trails. The area surrounding the lake is rich in history and culture, with numerous museums, galleries, and other cultural attractions within easy reach. In summary, Lake Monona is a beautiful and vibrant natural resource that offers a wide range of recreational opportunities for visitors of all ages and interests. Its clear waters, healthy fish populations, and numerous public access points make it a popular destination for anglers, boaters, and swimmers, while its cultural and historical significance add to its appeal as a destination for those interested in history, art, and culture.
Read more detailsCurrent Conditions
Water Temperature
Current Snapshot
Forecast: Wednesday, May 7
MostlyCloudy
Hourly Insights
Temperature
Precipitation
Wind
Sun, Moon & UV
Solunar Fishing Forecast
Todays action is rated a 2 (scale is 0 thru 5, 5 is the best)
2:14 AM - 4:44 AM
2:00 PM - 4:30 PM
7:57 PM - 9:27 PM
8:03 AM - 9:33 AM
Outlook for Wednesday at Lake Monona
Expect temperatures ranging from 49°F to 71°F. Skies look partly cloudy with little chance of precipitation. Winds will be averaging 9 mph, with potential gusts reaching up to 25 mph. The maximum UV index will be 6 (High), so plan sun protection accordingly. For anglers, today's fishing action is rated 2/5 (Todays action is rated a 2 (scale is 0 thru 5, 5 is the best)). Look for the best bite times during the major periods around 2:14 AM and 2:00 PM, or try the minor windows near 7:57 PM and 8:03 AM for potential early morning or evening action. Check back for the latest conditions and forecasts for Lake Monona.
Lake Map Views

Try Premium Features
Find the fishing sweet spots! See detailed temperature readings throughout your lake.
No credit card required for preview
Lake Information
Common Fish Species
Nearby Lakes
Water Temperature History
Trends for Lake Monona
Current Temp
Latest recorded surface temperature.
Lowest in Period
35°F
On Jan 12
Coldest point in the Last 12 Months.
Average in Period
55°F
Typical temp during the Last 12 Months.
Temperature Trend: Last 12 Months
Surface temperature over the selected period.
Key Observations (Last 12 Months)
- Warmest avg: July (76°F).
- Coolest avg: December (37°F).
- Rapid warming often occurs: May → June (+13°F).
- Sharpest cooling trend: October → November (-12°F).
Weather Forecast
Wind speed and pressure trends
Hourly Wind Forecast
Wind Direction
267°
Pressure
1015 mb
Cloud Cover
14%
Visibility
17 miles
Daily Pressure Forecast


Frequently Asked Questions About Lake Monona
Get accurate, up-to-date information about conditions at Lake Monona.