The Patoka River in southern Indiana offers anglers a diverse and rewarding fishing experience. Flowing through the Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge and Management Area, this river system encompasses approximately 33 miles of waterway including the main river, its tributaries, and connected oxbows and overflow wetlands. The watershed features a variety of habitats, from bottomland hardwood forests to marshes and cropland. The Patoka River ecosystem has shown resilience and improved water quality over the years, allowing for a surprisingly diverse fish population despite historical environmental challenges. The river eventually feeds into Patoka Lake, an 8,800-acre reservoir that serves as a popular fishing destination in its own right. Together, the river and lake system provide excellent fishing opportunities for both boat and bank anglers throughout most of the year.