Hodgeman State Fishing Lake and Wildlife Area is a 501 acre public hunting and fishing area. The property is located in Hodgeman County two miles south and three miles east of Jetmore, Kansas. Approximately 366 acres of the area is native grass with timber along the drainage and lake edge,48 acres of cropland, and intermittent lake covers approximately 87 acres when full. In 2005 money was allocated to the area to help seal the property due to a fault line in the northwest part of the lake. A heavy plastic linear was placed at the bottom of the lake, along the dam and outlet structure. The liner covers approximately 4 acres of the lake bottom.

Fishing

Although the drainage has an excellent history of supplying water to the lake, the lake has a history of losing this water within a year or two after filling. Numerous studies have been carried out in an attempt to identify the leak. Results have been less than decisive. It is believed that the lake bottom may be porous enough to allow widespread loss. In the future, a sealing process may be developed that could be used. When water is available, all attempts are made to stock the area with channel catfish, largemouth bass, bluegill, and redear sunfish. If possible, catchable size fish are stocked to supply immediate opportunities. The lake is currently 1/3 full (10/28/2014).

Hunting

Hunting is allowed on all portions of the property. Species available include white-tailed and mule deer, pheasant, dove, rabbit, and waterfowl when water is present. A parking lot is available at the main entrance for visitor convenience. This area serves as a handicapped hunting area. Individuals that qualify for and receive a handicapped hunting permit will be allowed special vehicle access. For more information contact the area manager.