Patoka Lake Championship

Tri-State Finest Fishing & Indiana Arm Forces Fishing League 2026 Championship

We hope that the 2026 season has been good for you. We have tried to provide the best possible lakes to fish in, including opportunities for Patoka Lake Fishing, and look forward to the future. This year’s organizational champions will receive 2 entries into the Cabala’s Big Bass Tournament being held October 2–4 at Douglas Lake, Tennessee. Everyone is reminded that you must be registered with the Tri-State’s Finest Fishing or the Indiana Armed Forces Fishing League and have fished at least 3 events to be eligible to participate in this year’s Championship.

More Information about Patoka Lake

Patoka Lake in Southern Indiana is a vast, multi-county reservoir offering extensive outdoor recreation like boating, Patoka lake fishing, and camping, with amenities including a marina, winery, and distillery. The lake is spread across Dubois, Crawford, and Orange counties in Southern Indiana and is the second largest reservoir in the state.

Patoka Lake in Indiana is a top fishing spot for largemouth bass, offering diverse opportunities in its many coves, timber, and creek channels. Anglers target specific structures like brush piles and points, using seasonal tactics for different species. This makes Patoka lake fishing a favorite among both casual and tournament anglers.

LARGEMOUTH BASS

The average Largemouth Bass harvested at Patoka Lake is about 16 1/2 inches long. Plenty of 3–5-pound fish are caught, along with quite a few “big ones,” providing exciting opportunities for Patoka lake fishing enthusiasts.

SMALLMOUTH BASS

Native to North America, the Smallmouth Bass is a popular gamefish sought after by many anglers. Known for the fight it gives when getting reeled in, it is considered one of the sportiest freshwater fish. Patoka Lake offers excellent areas to target smallmouth bass, enhancing overall Patoka lake fishing experiences.

About Patoka Lake Marina

Patoka Lake Marina is located inside the park and provides many services to support Patoka lake fishing. You can rent a slip for your boat (nightly or seasonal), get gas and boating supplies, and purchase food, drinks, and ice. For the most up-to-date information, it is recommended to visit the marina website directly.

Tournament Information:

Championship Event: This year’s organizational championship will award 2 entries into the Cabala’s Big Bass Tournament at Douglas Lake, Tennessee. To participate, anglers must be registered with the Tri-State’s Finest Fishing (TSFF) or the Indiana Armed Forces Fishing League (IAFFL) and have fished in at least 3 events. This is an excellent chance to join a Patoka lake fishing tournament.

Entry Fee: $120.00 Per Boat/Team.

All fees will be collected at the boat ramp unless paid in advance as part of the check-in. Everyone must check in, even if you paid in advance. Cash Only.

Big Fish Optional Pot: $30.00 per team, winner, take all.

Payouts:

Day 1: Big Fish 30%

Day 2: Overall Big Fish 70%

One payout per 4 boats, minimum 2 places paid

90% for payouts, 10% to TSFF

Payouts are calculated by (TOURNAMENT PAYOUT CALCULATOR) youts.firebaseapp.com

Schedule:

Check-in at 6:00AM at the Check Station next to the Main Boat Ramp inside the park.

Lines In: 6:30AM

Lines Out: 2:30PM

Weigh In: 2:45PM – 3:15PM

Rules

• Maximum 2 anglers per boat (single angler allowed)

• Fish Limit: 14” minimum, 5 per bag/boat

• Dead Fish: additional 8 oz penalty