It’s well known that Benjy Kinman Lake is a good fishery and dropping a line here means you’re up for a fun and productive day. The verdant, tree-lined shores make a wonderful backdrop for reeling in trophy bass.
This popular lake was only made public in 2014 and it’s been a hot spot ever since. Located within the Boone Tract of the Kentucky River Wildlife Management Area, it’s the largest of the three lakes here, and it’s the only one accessible by boat. This little slice of paradise is dedicated to former Department of Fish and Wildlife employee Benjy Kinman for his dedicated service from 1976 to 2014.

Who is going to love it?

City dwelling anglers from both Louisville and Lexington will rejoice in this easily accessible little gem in Henry County. Perfect for a one-day escape from the sweltering summer days, kayak anglers won’t even mind just floating around this serene lake once the daily limit has been reached.

Recent upgrades include a new paved boat launch and a fishing pier that is fully handicapped accessible. Benjy Kinman Lake is a highly desirable destination for anglers with limited mobility or young children just learning the ropes of reels, bait, and tackle.

What makes it great?

Tired of fighting the crowds at the heavy hitters of the Kentucky fishing scene? Then Benjy Kinman Lake might just be the spot for a relaxing day on a pristine little lake tucked away in near a bend in the Kentucky River. With the wide variety of trees hugging the waterline and plentiful brush and timber sunken along the shore, the lake is an excellent habitat for its scaly residents. The area is well known to locals as a go-to spot for a day of easy fishing.

Benjy Kinman Lake has been known to give up trophy-size, 23-inch and over, largemouth bass. You’ll have to memorialize your win with a photo as all bass fishing is catch and release here.  Anglers can also expect to find bluegill, and possibly some channel catfish and redear sunfish.

It might be no surprise that this lush corner of heaven is an active nesting ground for bald eagles from November until June. The restricted areas are posted and please leave the dogs home during nesting season. Towering up in the trees, the nests are easily viewable in the fall and winter once the leaves have fallen.

Directions, Parking & Regulations

From Frankfort, take US-127 N, then left on KY-355 in Monterey. Turn left on State Highway 22 W. Cross the bridge, then turn right on KY-389 N. The area is about three miles on the right down a gravel road.

A Kentucky fishing license is required and catch limits are strictly enforced. Largemouth bass are catch-and-release only. The combined limit for crappie and panfish is 15, and the catfish limit is four.

Boats are restricted to trolling motors. Boats with outboards are allowed on the water but can operate only with trolling motors.

There is no marina or bathroom facilities here so plan accordingly.

Some areas are restricted from November through June for bald eagle nesting season.