Artichoke Lake

How big is Artichoke Lake?

How deep is Artichoke Lake?

What kind of fish can you catch in Artichoke Lake?

Are there topographical lake maps available Artichoke 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 Artichoke Lake (.pdf format) along with 2,700 more lake maps. For more information on all the benefits of Lake-Link Pro click here.

Artichoke Lake

Are there boat launches on Artichoke Lake?

Are there places to eat and drink near Artichoke Lake?

Artichoke Lake is located in western Minnesota approximately 14 miles northwest of Appleton. It is a highly productive lake with a maximum depth of 15 feet and a surface area of 1,946 acres. Anglers should study Artichoke's contour map carefully before boating as several shallow, unmarked reef areas exist that are navigation hazards. Anglers are cautioned that an aeration system located near the "narrows" is usually operated during winter and it creates a substantial area of open water. Artichoke Lake's fishery is managed primarily for walleye and northern pike, with secondary emphasis on black crappie, bluegill, largemouth bass, and yellow perch.

Walleye were moderately abundant during 2014. Most of them were 8-12 or 16-19 inches. Walleye angling during 2014 was slow due to abundant forage. Walleye have typically experienced poor natural reproduction and the population has been maintained primarily through stocking. Supplemental walleye are stocked as appropriate depending on the abundance and condition of existing walleye, and the abundance of suitable forage.

Northern pike numbers were low during 2014. Pike experienced good natural reproduction and high populations at times during the mid to late 1990s, but lower abundances have been the norm since 2002. Northern pike grow fast and die young in Artichoke Lake and few pike older than 4 years have ever been sampled. Adult pike from winter rescue lakes were stocked from 2006-2011 to supplement the population. In the absence of natural reproduction or supplemental stocking, the population can decline rapidly as has been the case in recent years. Winter rescued northern pike, if available, will be stocked in late 2015 to supplement the population.

Good numbers of black crappie were present in 2014. The majority were from a strong 2013 year class and measured 5-6 inches. Substantial numbers of 9-12 inch crappie were also present. Anglers reported sporadic success for crappie during 2014, with the best fishing coming from the southern portion of the lake. A DNR fishing pier located along the southeast shore is a popular location to catch crappie.

Freshwater drum have been abundant in recent years and anglers often report good catches of them. Anglers are encouraged to harvest and consume them. Excellent drum recipes can be located on the internet by searching "drum recipes." When cleaning drum do not get the slime on the fillets and carefully trim the red meat from the fillets to improve flavor.
Bluegill, largemouth bass and yellow perch were caught in low numbers during the 2014 assessment. Bluegill and largemouth bass may have been underrepresented considering anglers have reported decent fishing for them at times.

What is the average air temp for Artichoke Lake?

Are there any state parks near Artichoke Lake?