How deep is Cecil M Harden Lake?
How Deep is Cecil M. Harden Lake in Indiana? The Ultimate Guide
Stretching across 1,465 acres of sparkling blue water in west-central Indiana, Cecil M. Harden Lake is a paradise for anglers, boaters, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. As a long-time Indiana resident and avid fisherman, I‘ve spent countless hours exploring every creek and cove of this beautiful lake. Let‘s dive into everything you need to know about the depths, history, and recreation opportunities at Cecil M. Harden Lake!
History and Background
Before we get into the depths of Cecil M. Harden Lake, it helps to understand the background of how this reservoir came to be. Cecil M. Harden Lake was constructed between 1964 and 1967 by the Army Corps of Engineers through the damming of Big Walnut Creek near Roachdale, Indiana.
The project was authorized by Congress through the Flood Control Act of 1962. Total federal spending on land acquisition and construction of the dam amounted to $6.7 million dollars (over $51 million in today‘s money)! After four years of work, the dam was completed in 1967 standing 1,300 feet long and 140 feet tall.
The reservoir was named after former Indiana Congressman Cecil M. Harden in recognition of his efforts lobbying for congressional funding and approval. Its primary purposes include flood control, water supply, and recreation for west-central Indiana.
Here are some key facts and figures on Cecil M. Harden Lake:
- Surface Area: 1,465 acres at normal pool elevation
- Shoreline Length: 34 miles
- Watershed Drainage Area: 180 square miles
- Length of Lake: 5 miles
- Width of Lake: 1 mile at widest point
- Dam Height: 140 feet
- Dam Length: 1,300 feet
- Spillway Capacity: 79,000 cubic feet/second
- Normal Pool Elevation: 603 feet above sea level
Maximum Depth
Now let‘s get to the question of how deep Cecil M. Harden Lake gets. The maximum depth of Cecil M. Harden is 55 feet deep near the face of the main earthen dam. This makes it one of the deeper lakes in Indiana.
While 55 feet is the recorded maximum, most of the main basin ranges between 30 to 50 feet deep. Areas toward the upper end and sides of the lake are shallower, with depths of 15 to 25 feet typical. Sheltered coves and areas near shoreline structure are also relatively shallow at 5 to 15 feet depths.
Here is a comparison of different depth zones around Cecil M. Harden Lake:
| Area of Lake | Typical Depth Range |
|---|---|
| Main Basin near Dam | 40-55 ft |
| Mid-Lake Areas | 30-45 ft |
| Upper End of Reservoir | 20-35 ft |
| Shoreline Coves & Inlets | 5-15 ft |
Lake Bottom Composition
In addition to understanding Cecil M. Harden Lake‘s depths, it also helps to know what makes up the lake bottom. The composition of the lake bottom has a direct impact on what fish species thrive and where to find them.
The predominant lake bottom type is sand, gravel, and rock. This rocky and sandy mix provides excellent habitat for smallmouth bass, bluegill, and other structure-oriented species. Soft sediments like mud accumulate in the deepest areas and in sheltered coves.
Along shorelines, the bottom is sandy with occasional patches of bedrock and boulders. Moving offshore, gravel and small rocks mix with sand across the bottom. In 30+ foot depths, the bottom transitions to finer rock particles and eventually mud.
Standing timber, brush piles, and other woody cover were left in place when the reservoir was filled. These create prime structure for crappie, largemouth bass, and catfish. Underwater points, drop-offs, and submerged ridges also hold fish.
Recreational Activities
Boasting over 30 miles of wooded shoreline and crystal clear waters, Cecil M. Harden Lake offers phenomenal outdoor recreation. Let‘s explore some of the top activities and facilities available at this gem of an Indiana lake.
Boating
With its deep waters and lack of obstructions, Cecil M. Harden Lake is ideal for both powerboating and sailing. Two public launch ramps at Raccoon Marina and Mansfield Ramp provide easy access. Since much of the lake is bordered by protected lands, shoreline development is limited, making for pristine views.
While boats with unlimited horsepower are permitted, most opt for lower powered outboards and electric trolling motors. Jet skis and wakeboarding boats do utilize the main body of the lake during summer. Always boat responsibly and watch your wake in narrower areas.
Camping
The Army Corps manages four campgrounds around Cecil M. Harden Lake. Raccoon Marina and Mansfield campgrounds are located directly on the lake and offer hiking trails, beaches, and boat ramps nearby. Reserve America operates the campground reservation system for Cecil M. Harden Lake.
Campsites offer electric and water hook-ups, restroom/shower facilities, and shaded sites for both RVs and tents. Be sure to book your campsites well in advance for summer weekends.
Fishing
With an abundance of gamefish including crappie, bluegill, hybrid striped bass, and both largemouth and spotted bass, Cecil M. Harden Lake is a top fishing destination in west-central Indiana. Let‘s look at tips and tactics for targeting the lake‘s most popular species.
Largemouth Bass – Seek out brush piles, standing timber, and submerged weedlines in 3-10 ft depths using soft plastics. Focus on rocky points and bluff banks early and late in the day.
Bluegill – Drift or cast to shoreline structure. Add a split shot and small jig tipped with a wax worm or cricket. Go light tackle for these feisty panfish.
Crappie – Slip bobbers and minnows around any submerged structure in 10-25 ft depths. Small jigs also produce; glow/chartreuse are top colors.
Hybrid Striped Bass – Troll or cast large crankbaits, flukes, topwaters for these hard-fighting fish. Look for surface activity in open water indicating feeding schools.
Catfish – Drift cut bait in the old river channel near the dam. Target 15-30 ft depths. Jug fishing baited with shad is also productive.
[See attached map showing top fishing spots at Cecil M. Harden Lake with GPS coordinates.]Hunting
The forests and wetlands surrounding Cecil M. Harden Lake provides prime habitat for wildlife like deer, turkey, rabbits, squirrels, and waterfowl. Opportunities exist for both archery and firearm hunting on the public lands managed by Indiana DNR.
Hunting regulations, check-in procedures, and maps can be found at wildlife.IN.gov. Scouting your hunting areas ahead of season and obtaining proper licensing is a must.
Hiking/Biking
Miles of trails weave through the woods surrounding Cecil M. Harden Lake. Hikers, mountain bikers, trail runners, and equestrians are all welcome. Trails pass by lake views, through wetland areas, and to scenic overlooks.
The Tuscany Trail offers a peaceful 5-mile loop hike with excellent bird watching opportunities. Be sure to avoid hunting areas during active seasons and keep dogs leashed at all times.
Wildlife Viewing
From soaring bald eagles to croaking bullfrogs, the wildlife diversity at Cecil M. Harden Lake is incredible. Herons, egrets, waterfowl, and shorebirds all thrive in the lake‘s shallows and marshy areas.
Deer, beaver, muskrat, and river otter are also spotted regularly along the lakeshore. Fish-eating birds like osprey and kingfishers dive for prey. And songbirds and hummingbirds abound in the surrounding forests. Grab your binoculars and camera!
Safety Tips
While Cecil M. Harden Lake offers endless fun, please keep these safety tips in mind:
- Wear your lifejacket (PFD) while boating and swimming
- Watch for underwater hazards like stumps if swimming or wading
- Use proper lighting at night and maintain safe speeds
- Check lake conditions and weather forecast before going out
- Let someone know your plans and expected return time
- Obey all posted warning signs and buoys
- Be vigilant for hunting seasons and wear blaze orange
Protect and respect this incredible natural resource for generations to come through responsible recreation. With common sense and stewardship, we can keep Cecil M. Harden Lake pristine.
In summary, with a rich history dating back to the 1960s and depths reaching 55 feet, Cecil M. Harden Lake offers outstanding fishing, boating, camping, and outdoor recreation. Few lakes in Indiana can compare to its beautiful shoreline, clear waters, and abundance of habitat and wildlife. From lazy afternoons spent casting for bluegill to trophy bass caught deep off rocky points, Cecil M. Harden truly has something for every outdoor enthusiast!