5 MINUTE VACATION!

THE ORIGINAL 5 MINUTE VACATION WEB SITE.

Wichita South Lake - Fishing, Access, and Visitor Guide

Wichita South Lake, located just west of the intersection of W. 55th Street South and South Seneca, is one of the most accessible community fishing lakes in the southern part of the city. This 17-acre sandpit lake is part of Kansas' Community Fisheries Assistance Program (CFAP) and is fully included in the Urban Fishing Program, making it a convenient destination for anglers who want quality fishing without leaving the Wichita metro area.

Location & Directions
The lake sits approximately ½ mile west of South Seneca on W. 55th Street South, on the north side of the road. This makes it easy to reach from any part of south Wichita, Haysville, or the surrounding neighborhoods. The official GPS coordinates are:

37.59380, -97.36120

The physical address most commonly associated with the lake is:

1524 W 55th St S, Wichita, KS 67217

Although the lake is part of the larger South Lakes Park area, it is distinct from the sports complex and sits north of 55th Street, separate from the ballfields and soccer areas.

Lake Characteristics
Wichita South Lake is classified as a Community Lake and covers 17 surface acres. It is a deep sandpit lake, known for its very clear water and minimal shoreline vegetation. These characteristics make it visually appealing and excellent for sight-fishing, though the lack of vegetation can sometimes make fish more cautious.

The lake is one of three fishing ponds in the broader South Lakes Park system, but it is the largest and deepest, with depths reaching up to 30 feet in some areas.

Boating & Water Access
Your original note said the lake does not have boat access, but according to Kansas Wildlife & Parks, carry-in craft ARE allowed. This includes:

+ Canoes

+ Kayaks

+ Float tubes

No boat ramp for trailers exists, and motorized boats are not permitted, but paddlers and float-tube anglers are welcome.

Some user reviews also mention a small non-motorized launch area, consistent with the “carry-in only” designation.

Fish Species & Stocking Information
As part of the Urban Fishing Program, Wichita South Lake receives regular stocking—especially harvest-sized channel catfish in the spring and fall. Anglers can expect to find:

- Channel Catfish - stocked regularly; often fair fishing up to 20 inches

- Largemouth Bass - present but in lower numbers; typically small to moderate size

- Crappie - occasional catches, including black crappie

- Bluegill - common throughout the lake

- Saugeye - occasionally present

The lake is also listed as containing white perch, an Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS). Because of this, no live fish may be transported from the lake, including sunfish used as bait. Anglers are encouraged not to release white perch back into the water.

Fishing Conditions & Tips
The clear water and depth profile of South Lake create unique fishing conditions:

Bass fishing can be challenging due to low populations and high angling pressure across Wichita's urban lakes. Light line and finesse presentations are recommended.

Catfish respond well to worms, hotdogs, and prepared baits, especially near drop-offs.

Crappie are less abundant here than in other regional lakes, but small jigs or minnows can still produce fish.

Bluegill are plentiful and easy to catch, making the lake family-friendly.

Because the water is extremely clear, Kansas Wildlife & Parks recommends using small-diameter fishing line to improve success.

Amenities & Park Features
While South Lake itself is primarily a fishing destination, the surrounding South Lakes Park offers:

+ Parking areas

+ Trails

+ Picnic tables

+ Restrooms (in the sports complex area)

+ Nearby playgrounds and sports fields

The lake also features bank-fishing access and is listed among Wichita-area lakes that have fishing docks/platforms, improving accessibility for anglers of all ages and abilities.

Management & Contact Information

Wichita South Lake is managed through a partnership between:

Kansas Department of Wildlife & Parks (KDWP)

City of Wichita Parks & Recreation - 316-219-9777

The lake is open 24 hours a day, according to public listings.

Summary
Wichita South Lake is a convenient, well-maintained community fishing lake offering clear water, deep structure, and a variety of fish species. Its inclusion in the Urban Fishing Program ensures regular stocking, especially of channel catfish, and its carry-in boating access makes it a great spot for kayakers and float-tube anglers. With easy access from 55th and Seneca and proximity to the amenities of South Lakes Park, it's an excellent choice for both casual anglers and families looking for a peaceful outdoor escape close to home.