Relaxing Site for Outdoor Recreation

The largest of the four Madison, Wisconsin lakes is Lake Mendota. The lake borders Madison, Middleton, Maple Bluff, Westport, and Shorewood Hills. The University of Wisconsin is situated along the southside of the Lake. The lake provides students with the ability to conduct research and participate in lake sports that other colleges may not have access to. Students also congregate along the lakefront for recreation and socializing.

A good portion of the lake is surrounded by expensive homes and condominium communities. There are also natural areas and parks that are government owned, including the James Madison Park. Student housing and the Student Union also occupies space along the lakefront. Retail establishments, including hotels and restaurants have taken advantage of the lakefront views and built successful business by Lake Mendota. Seasonal sports are popular on the lake, and the warm temperatures bring boaters out onto the lake. There are numerous launch sites, as well as two marinas. Other lake activities include water-skiing, fishing, wakeboarding, canoeing, tubing, wind-surfing, kayaking, and sailing. Winter sports are also enjoyed on the lake and include ice fishing, ice boating, cross country skiing, and ice hockey.

Because of its proximity to the college, Lake Mendota is considered one of the countries most studied lakes. The remote sensor buoy on the lake is part of the Global Lake Ecological Observatory Network. To some, Lake Mendota is best known for a 1979 stunt carried out by a party of the University's student government. After being elected into power, this tongue in cheek political faction "honored'' a campaign promise by bringing the Statue of Liberty to Madison. The built a faux statue that appeared to have sunken into the lake. This served to infuriate several student groups, but it did not stop the Pail and Shovel party from winning a second election, prompting them to build and sink an even larger Lady Liberty statue. While many complained about the cost to students for this prank, it goes to show how willing people can be to fall for a variety of political stunts. Often the most absurd tactics display the irony of the way in which people think and vote.

Since the pranks, Lake Mendota has been relatively peaceful. It is a weekend destination for people all over the state of Wisconsin. Bicycle paths lead riders along the shores, and hiking trails allow visitors to view the natural habitat of the lake and its surroundings up close. The lake is 42 feet deep and over 9,000 square acres large. Numerous fish specied occupy the lake including bluegill, lake sturgeon, walleye, bass, muskie, and pike. Fishing restrictions include size minimums on walleye, bass, and pike. This ensure the ecosystem of the lake will continue to flourish and offer exciting fishing opportunities to all who visit the lake.

Just minutes from the Wisconsin state capital, Lake Mendota provides a respite from the urban culture of Madison. Enjoying a day at Lake Mendota is a popular pasttime for those living in Wisconsin.