Hanging Kettle Lake

How big is Hanging Kettle Lake?

How deep is Hanging Kettle Lake?

What kind of fish can you catch in Hanging Kettle Lake?

What are the closest cities to Hanging Kettle Lake?

Are there topographical lake maps available Hanging Kettle Lake?

We have an topograpical map for online viewing near the top of this page. Lake-Link Pro users can download an print a topograpical map of Hanging Kettle Lake (.pdf format) along with 2,700 more lake maps. For more information on all the benefits of Lake-Link Pro click here.

Hanging Kettle Lake

Are there boat launches on Hanging Kettle Lake?

Are there places to eat and drink near Hanging Kettle Lake?

Hanging Kettle Lake is the most downstream member of the Ripple River chain of lakes and is located five miles south of Aitkin. There is a public access with a concrete log ramp on the west side of the lake. Small boats are able to navigate at normal water levels upstream to Diamond Lake, while canoes and similar craft can travel downstream approximately ten river miles to the Mississippi River.

Walleye have been stocked regularly since 1986 with limited success. No walleye were captured in 2013, indicating the current strategy is not achieving the desired result. Similar lakes typically support a low density walleye population, so walleye stocking is likely to continue on this popular lake.

Anglers usually focus their efforts on panfish species. Black crappie continue to be abundant but small, as they have throughout the history of fisheries surveys. Only one crappie greater than ten inches was captured during this survey, although it is possible there are some larger fish given their abundance and longevity. Fish up to ten years old were captured with several year classes identified indicating consistent annual recruitment. Bluegill were captured within the expected range for this type of lake. Growth was similar to county averages and size was good, with 27% greater than 7". The lack of larger individuals of both of these species suggests that angler harvest is limiting the maximum size these fish can reach. Selective harvest is encouraged to preserve or enhance the quality of these valuable resources.

Northern pike abundance is above the expected range for similar lakes. Size was good with an average of 22.3" and 2.7 pounds, with 24% of pike greater than 24". Important forage species, yellow perch and white sucker, were captured in typical numbers for this type of lake suggesting adequate forage for this top predator. Larger pike play an important role in regulating survival and growth of various species. Anglers should consider releasing fish greater than 24" to help protect the vital function these fish provide and to maximize the sporting benefit for multiple anglers by recycling these quality fish.

Maintaining habitat is important for both fish and wildlife resources. In addition to maintaining a good aquatic vegetation community, coarse woody habitat such as fallen trees and branches offer additional habitat that should be left in place for the benefit of most fish species in Hanging Kettle Lake. While it can be inconvenient when a tree falls into one's dock or swimming area, consider moving it to an area along your shoreline that is clear of your activity, rather than removing it from the lake. Benefits of good habitat stewardship are often rewarded with good fishing.

What is the average air temp for Hanging Kettle Lake?

Are there any state parks near Hanging Kettle Lake?