What Shoaff Park offers anglers

Shoaff Park sits on the northeast side of Fort Wayne along the St. Marys River, and it's one of the city's most accessible fishing spots for both bank and boat anglers. The park holds walleye, largemouth bass, and channel catfish, with walleye being the primary draw for serious anglers. The St. Marys River here is slower and deeper than upstream sections, creating habitat that walleye prefer—especially in spring and fall when they move into shallower water to feed.

The park itself is small but well-maintained, with a boat launch, parking, and bank access along a good stretch of river. If you're coming from downtown Fort Wayne, it's a quick drive, and the facilities make it worth a stop whether you're launching a boat or fishing from shore. The river corridor here is quieter than some urban waterways, and you'll often have stretches to yourself, particularly on weekday mornings.

Key Takeaways

  • Shoaff Park's boat launch and bank access make it practical for both launching and shore fishing on the St. Marys River.
  • Walleye are the primary target, especially in spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) when they move into shallower feeding zones.
  • The river channel and deeper holes near the park hold fish year-round, but summer can be slow as walleye move to deeper, cooler water.
  • Channel catfish are present and active in warm months, offering a different option if walleye aren't cooperating.
  • A current Indiana fishing license is required; check the current regulations for walleye and bass seasons before you fish.

Spring walleye fishing at Shoaff Park

Spring is the strongest season at Shoaff Park. As water temperatures climb from the low 40s into the 50s (typically late March through May), walleye move out of the deepest holes and into shallower flats and current breaks to spawn and feed. The St. Marys River channel here has enough current to concentrate fish, and the slower pools near the park are natural staging areas.

Early morning and late evening are most productive, especially on overcast days or when the river is slightly stained. Jigs tipped with live minnows or soft plastics work well—cast toward the deeper channel edges and work the bottom slowly. If you're boat fishing, focus on the deeper holes and current seams; from shore, the area directly in front of the park's access point and downstream toward the bend hold fish consistently.

Fall fishing and the transition to winter

Fall (September through October) mirrors spring in many ways. As water cools from the 70s back into the 50s, walleye become more active and move back into shallower feeding zones. The bite can be excellent, and you'll often catch fish throughout the day rather than just at dawn and dusk. Live minnows remain the top bait choice, and casting small jigs or crankbaits along the current breaks produces steady action.

By November, water temperatures drop into the 40s and walleye become less aggressive. They're still present but deeper and slower to bite. If you fish late fall or early winter, expect a tougher bite and plan for longer sessions with patience. The park remains open year-round, but winter conditions on the river can be harsh—check weather and river conditions before heading out.

Summer and the challenge of heat

Summer is the slowest season at Shoaff Park. As water temperatures climb into the 70s and 80s, walleye retreat to the deepest holes and become less active during daylight. If you fish in June, July, or August, focus on early morning (before 8 a.m.) or after sunset, and fish the deepest water you can access. Night fishing can be productive, though the park's facilities close at dusk.

Channel catfish become more active in summer heat and can provide good action in the evening and at night. They're less picky than walleye and will take cut bait, chicken liver, or stink bait. If you're looking for a summer option at Shoaff Park, catfish are worth targeting, especially if you can fish after the park closes to day-use traffic.

Boat launch details and access

Shoaff Park has a single-lane concrete boat launch that's suitable for small to medium-sized boats. The launch is free and maintained by the city. Parking is available near the launch, though spaces fill quickly on weekends during peak season. There's also bank access along the park's river frontage, making it accessible even if you don't have a boat.

The park has restrooms and picnic facilities, which is convenient if you're planning a longer outing. The launch area can get crowded on Saturday mornings in spring and fall, so arriving early or fishing on weekdays will give you a calmer experience. The river is generally navigable upstream and downstream from the park, though you should scout the water level and current before launching, especially after heavy rain.

Tackle and technique for Shoaff Park

Walleye at Shoaff Park respond best to live bait presentations. A 1/4- to 3/8-ounce jig tipped with a 3- to 4-inch live minnow (shiners or fathead minnows work well) is the standard approach. Cast toward structure—the channel edges, current breaks, and deeper holes—and work the jig slowly along the bottom. Patience and a light touch matter; walleye often bite subtly, and you need to feel the bottom to know when a fish has taken your bait.

Soft plastic presentations (4-inch paddle-tail swimbaits or curly-tail grubs) are also effective, especially in spring when walleye are aggressive. If you prefer casting, small crankbaits that reach 6 to 10 feet deep can work, particularly in fall. For catfish, simple bottom rigs with cut bait or prepared stink bait will produce. Use a medium-heavy rod and 15- to 20-pound line; the river bottom can be snaggy, and you'll lose rigs occasionally.

Regulations and licensing

You'll need a current Indiana fishing license to fish at Shoaff Park. Licenses are available online through the Indiana Department of Natural Resources website, at sporting goods stores, and at some bait shops in Fort Wayne. A one-day license is available if you're just visiting, or you can purchase an annual license if you plan to fish multiple times.

Walleye and bass have specific season dates and daily catch limits in Indiana; these vary by year and water body. Before you fish, check the current regulations on the DNR website or call the Fort Wayne DNR office. Shoaff Park is on the St. Marys River, which has its own regulations separate from some of the lakes in the area. Catfish have no closed season and are generally more liberal in terms of daily limits, making them a good option when walleye season is closed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best time of day to fish Shoaff Park?

Early morning (sunrise to mid-morning) and late evening (two hours before sunset) are most productive for walleye, especially in spring and fall. Summer requires even earlier starts or night fishing. Catfish bite throughout the day and into the night, so they're more flexible if you can't fish dawn or dusk.

Can I fish from shore at Shoaff Park?

Yes. The park has bank access along the river, and you can fish from shore without a boat. The area directly in front of the park and downstream toward the bend are the most productive spots. You'll have less range than a boat angler, but walleye and catfish are catchable from the bank, especially in spring and fall.

Is there a fee to launch a boat at Shoaff Park?

No, the boat launch is free. Parking is also free, though spaces can fill up on busy weekend mornings during spring and fall. The park is open during daylight hours for day-use access.

What size fish can I expect at Shoaff Park?

Walleye in the 12- to 18-inch range are common, with occasional fish in the 20-inch class. Bass are typically smaller, in the 10- to 14-inch range. Channel catfish can run 15 to 25 pounds. The river doesn't produce trophy fish regularly, but it's a solid fishery for consistent action and keeper-sized fish.

Do I need a boat to fish Shoaff Park effectively?

No. Bank anglers catch fish regularly, especially in spring and fall when walleye move into shallower water. A boat gives you access to deeper holes and more water, but the park's bank access is productive enough to make it worth fishing without one.