Long Lake (Main Bay)

How big is Long Lake (Main Bay)?

How deep is Long Lake (Main Bay)?

What kind of fish can you catch in Long Lake (Main Bay)?

Are there places to eat and drink near Long Lake (Main Bay)?

Long lake is a 330-acre lake in ecological lake class 25 in northern Itasca County. A population assessment was conducted on Long Lake to determine the status of the fish community. The assessment included night-time boat electrofishing for largemouth bass in mid-June and gill and trap netting to assess other species in early July.

Black crappies were sampled in relatively good numbers when compared to similar lakes. Size distribution was balanced with approximately 50% of the catch exceeding 8 inches. Few individuals exceeding 10 inches were captured, however, and growth was relatively slow. Size distribution and catch rate were similar to previous surveys. Bluegills were captured in average numbers compared to similar lakes. Size structure was moderate as approximately 36% of the catch exceeded 6 inches and growth was average.

Northern pike were captured in above average numbers when compared to similar lakes. Northern pike catches have varied since the initial survey in 1949 when the catch was relatively low. The pike catch increased from 1976 through 1989, when an exceptionally high catch was observed. Since that time, catch rates have declined and are currently within the expected range for the lake type. High pike densities often result in relatively poor size structures. Size structure in Long Lake appears to have changed inversely to abundance as the size structure was relatively poor between 1976 and 1997. The current assessment indicates a modest improvement in the size structure as the proportion of individuals exceeding 21 and 28 inches were the highest observed since the 1949 survey. Growth was about average for pike in Minnesota. The current size structure indicates moderate angling opportunity for quality-sized individuals and at least some opportunity to catch pike exceeding 28 inches.

Walleye were relatively rare in the sample. Walleye have consistently occurred in low numbers in Long Lake. Prior to 1991, walleye stocking was attempted but failed to produce an improved fishery and was subsequently discontinued. Size structure was favorable with 60% exceeding 18 inches.

Largemouth bass were relatively abundant in the night electrofishing catch. The length distribution was favorable as most individuals exceeded 12 inches and individuals exceeding 15 inches were common. Given the good abundance and favorable size structure, good angling opportunities exist for this species.

Yellow perch, brown and yellow bullhead, golden shiner, rock bass, white sucker, and pumpkinseed were sampled in relatively low abundance.

The protection of water quality and habitat is critical in maintaining or improving fish and wildlife populations. Unfortunately, human activities often negatively impact our lakes. Fertilized turf-grass lawns and failing septic systems along with the removal of shoreline and aquatic vegetation, mowing to the shore, and installing sand blanket beaches result in destabilized shorelines, uncontrolled erosion, and increased run-off, contributing excess nutrients and sediment to the lake and degrading water quality and habitat. By understanding the cumulative impacts of our actions and taking steps to avoid or minimize them, we can help insure our quality water resources can be enjoyed well into the future. Anglers can further help insure quality fishing by practicing selective harvest and catch and release.

What is the average air temp for Long Lake (Main Bay)?

Are there any state parks near Long Lake (Main Bay)?