What Stone Quarry Park offers anglers

Stone Quarry Park is a small public fishing area in Dane County, Wisconsin, centered on a flooded quarry that holds largemouth bass, bluegill, and crappie. The park sits near the town of Stoughton and offers bank access to relatively shallow water with good structure — old quarry walls, submerged rock, and aquatic vegetation that hold fish year-round. It is not a destination for trophy hunting, but it works well for anglers targeting panfish or bass in a compact setting without the crowds of larger lakes.

The quarry itself is roughly 30 to 40 feet deep in places, but most productive fishing happens in the shallower margins where vegetation grows and bass hunt. The water stays fairly clear, which means sight-casting to visible fish is possible on calm days. Access is free, and the park has a small parking area and basic facilities, making it convenient for a quick outing or a morning before work.

Key Takeaways

  • Stone Quarry Park holds largemouth bass, bluegill, and crappie in a flooded quarry with good structure and vegetation.
  • Bank access is the only option — there is no boat launch, so you fish from shore or wade in shallow areas.
  • Spring and fall are most productive, though panfish bite consistently through summer in early morning and evening.
  • A Wisconsin fishing license is required; check current regulations for bass and panfish seasons before you go.
  • The park is small and fills quickly on weekends, so arrive early or fish on weekday mornings for the best experience.

Species and seasonal patterns at Stone Quarry

Largemouth bass are the primary draw, ranging from 12 to 18 inches on average, with occasional fish pushing 20 inches. They respond well to topwater lures early and late in the day, especially in spring (April through May) and fall (September through October). Summer bass move deeper or hold tight to vegetation and shade during midday heat, so focus on early morning and dusk if you fish June through August.

Bluegill and crappie are abundant and bite consistently throughout the open season. Panfish congregate in shallow bays and around the vegetation line, and they respond to small jigs, live minnows, and crickets. Spring spawning (May and early June) produces excellent panfish action in water 2 to 6 feet deep. Summer panfish fishing slows during the heat of the day but picks up again in evening. Fall panfish bite remains strong through October.

Winter fishing is possible if the quarry freezes solid, though ice thickness varies by year. Check local conditions before attempting ice fishing, and follow all Wisconsin ice safety guidelines.

Access, parking, and facilities

Stone Quarry Park has a small parking area with space for roughly 10 to 15 vehicles. There is no boat launch, so fishing is limited to bank access and wading in shallow areas. The park maintains a walking path around portions of the quarry, and several spots offer good casting distance to deeper water.

Facilities are minimal: a vault toilet and picnic tables are available, but there is no concession stand or bait shop on-site. Bring your own water, snacks, and any bait or tackle you plan to use. The nearest town with supplies is Stoughton, roughly 5 miles away, so plan accordingly if you need to restock mid-outing.

Tackle and techniques that work

For bass, topwater plugs and soft plastics work well in shallow water and around vegetation. Crankbaits and spinnerbaits cover more water if you are searching for active fish. Early morning and dusk are prime times; midday fishing requires patience and a willingness to fish deep structure or heavy cover.

Panfish respond to small jigs (1/32 to 1/16 ounce) tipped with live minnows or waxworms. A simple bobber rig with a live cricket or minnow suspended 3 to 6 feet deep works reliably in spring and early summer. Fly fishing for panfish is also effective if you have the gear — small poppers and nymphs draw strikes in shallow bays.

The quarry bottom is rocky in places, so expect occasional snags. Bring extra line and a few backup lures. The water is relatively clear, so lighter line (4 to 6 pound test for panfish, 8 to 10 pound for bass) often produces more bites than heavier gear.

Wisconsin fishing license and regulations

A valid Wisconsin fishing license is required for anyone 16 years or older. Licenses are available online through the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources website, at sporting goods stores, and at some bait shops. A one-day license costs less than a full-season license if you plan only occasional visits.

Bass seasons and size limits change by water body and year, so check the current Wisconsin fishing regulations before you go. Panfish (bluegill and crappie) typically have no closed season and no minimum size, but possession limits apply. The DNR website lists all current rules for Dane County waters.

When to fish and what to expect

Spring (April through May) is the busiest and most productive season. Bass spawn in shallow water, and panfish bite aggressively. Expect other anglers, especially on weekends. Arrive early to secure a good spot.

Summer (June through August) sees fewer anglers but slower midday fishing. Fish early morning (sunrise to 9 a.m.) and evening (6 p.m. onward) for best results. Midday can be slow, but dedicated anglers often find bass in deeper structure or shade.

Fall (September through October) rivals spring for productivity. Water cools, fish become active throughout the day, and crowds thin compared to spring. This is an excellent time to visit if you prefer fewer people and consistent action.

Winter fishing depends on ice thickness and safety. If the quarry freezes solid, ice fishing for panfish is possible, but always verify ice conditions and follow Wisconsin safety guidelines before venturing out.

Nearby alternatives if Stone Quarry is crowded

If Stone Quarry Park is full or you want to explore other options, several Dane County waters are within 15 miles. Lake Mendota and Lake Monona are larger and hold more fish, but they require a boat or access through city parks. Smaller ponds and quarries in the area offer similar panfish and bass fishing with less pressure, though some are on private land or have limited public access.

Check the Wisconsin DNR website for a list of public fishing areas in Dane County. Many small lakes and ponds are open to the public and receive fewer anglers than Stone Quarry Park, making them worth exploring if you have time to scout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I launch a kayak or canoe at Stone Quarry Park?

There is no official launch area, but some anglers carry kayaks or canoes to the water's edge and launch from shallow areas. Check with the park or Dane County Parks before attempting this, as rules may restrict launching from certain spots or require prior notice.

What is the best time of day to fish Stone Quarry?

Early morning (sunrise to 9 a.m.) and evening (6 p.m. to dark) are most productive year-round. Bass and panfish are more active in lower light. Midday fishing is slower, especially in summer, but patient anglers can still catch fish in deep structure or heavy vegetation.

Are there any size or catch limits I should know about?

Bass have a minimum size limit (typically 12 inches in Wisconsin, but verify current rules). Panfish have no minimum size but do have possession limits — usually 25 bluegill and 25 crappie per day. Check the Wisconsin DNR website for the exact rules for Dane County before you fish.

Is Stone Quarry Park good for beginners?

Yes. The park is small and easy to navigate, panfish bite readily and forgive poor technique, and the bank access means no boat handling. It is an ideal spot to learn basics or introduce children to fishing without the complexity of larger lakes.

Do I need a boat to fish Stone Quarry Park?

No. Bank access is the primary fishing method, and it is effective for both bass and panfish. The quarry margins hold plenty of fish within casting distance from shore, so a boat is not necessary to have a productive outing.