Lake Days Done Right: Swimming, Fishing, and Beach Time

The lake is the reason a lot of families come back to Straughn year after year. Ten acres of water, a sandy swim beach, and fishing right off the shore give you a full day’s worth of outdoors without ever leaving the property. Here’s how to get the most out of it.

Swimming off the beach

The swim beach is the heart of a summer day here. Set up your chairs, stake a little shade, and let the kids do what kids do. A few tips make it easier: bring water shoes for little feet, pack a dry bin for the wet stuff on the walk back, and remember that there’s no lifeguard on duty — kids should always have an adult watching the water. Morning and late afternoon are the calmest, coolest times to swim.

Fishing the lake

You don’t need a boat or fancy gear to have a good afternoon on the water. The lake holds bluegill and bass, and shoreline fishing is easy and productive — perfect for teaching kids to cast. Bring a light rod, a few hooks, and some patience. Early morning and the last hour before sunset are your best windows. Check current Indiana fishing regulations and licensing before you drop a line.

A bucket, a bobber, and an hour before dinner is a childhood memory in the making.

Keeping a beach day easy

The secret to a good lake day with kids is doing less, not more. A cooler, a couple of towels, snacks, and sunscreen will carry you further than any gadget. When someone gets hungry, the ice cream stand and on-site restaurant are a short walk away, so you’re never far from a reset. And when the little ones need a break from the water, the playground, GaGa ball pit, and basketball court are right there.

Sunset is the best part

Don’t pack up the second the sun starts dropping. Golden hour on the lake is the quietest, prettiest time of day — the water goes still, the crowd thins out, and it’s the perfect moment to trade the beach for a campfire. Snap a photo for us while you’re at it; we’re always adding to the gallery.

Come spend a day on the water

Lake days are what we do best. Take a look at everything that’s on the property, then reserve your stay and pick your weekend before the summer fills in.