Because of its large size, Patoka affords crappie anglers numerous places to fish. Many of the coves are loaded with timber, making them prime spots for crappies. However, it was reported that in the springtime the best place to fish for crappies is in the Patoka River arm from the Walls Lake ramp upstream. This portion of the lake is aptly called the "Walls" area, and it was here that many of the tournament winners fished. Crappies will come into this area in the spring to feed and spawn.

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) manages four state recreation areas at Patoka. The Newton-Stewart State Recreation Area is the most developed of the four. There are numerous boat ramps located around the lake, and from personal experience, this writer can tell you the ramps are pretty steep. However, they do have serrations cut across them to aid with traction when you’re putting your boat in the water or taking it out. The parking lots at the ramps that I used were large, well kept and easily accessible from the main roads around the lake. There is plenty of camping available nearby in the aforementioned recreation areas, too.

The number for Patoka is (812) 685-2464.