Rex Lake is a compact no-wake basin on the northwest side of Turkeyfoot's connected water. It suits anglers who would rather work a short shoreline carefully than join the traffic in the main ski area. The park map also marks a boat-swim area here, so fishing and swimming need room apart.
Lake facts
- Lake size: A small basin on the northwest side of the Turkeyfoot connection
- Fish to target: Bass and panfish in the Portage Lakes fishery
- Depth: The fishing map includes 20-foot contours
Where to fish
Start with a small jig beside cover for panfish, then try a soft plastic along the basin edge for bass. The DNR depth map shows a central area around 20 feet, giving you a deeper option just beyond the shallows. Fish the transition first instead of assuming the center is automatically the best spot.
Getting on the water
Use a marked public ramp serving the connected Turkeyfoot water, then confirm the route into Rex. Don't confuse a boat-swim area with a trailer launch or a public bank-fishing entrance. New Ramp and its accessible fishing pier are named park facilities to locate before setting out.
A few things to know
Rex has a 400-horsepower limit but no-wake operation. The park shoreline trails nearby offer a way to stretch your legs after fishing. Respect designated swimming areas and keep hooks clear of swimmers, especially when boats gather during summer afternoons.
Nearby fishing waters
Explore nearby waters, including local Featured destinations. Check each page for access and fishing restrictions.
Distances are straight-line estimates between mapped water locations.