Shakopee Lake

How big is Shakopee Lake?

How deep is Shakopee Lake?

What kind of fish can you catch in Shakopee Lake?

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

Shapokee Lake

Are there boat launches on Shakopee Lake?

Are there places to eat and drink near Shakopee Lake?

What are the fishing regulations for Shakopee Lake?

There are specific fishing regulations Shakopee Lake that you need to know. For complete fishing regulations visit the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. To report a violation call (800) 652-9093. Need a Minnesota fishing license?

What aquatic invasive species are found in Shakopee Lake?

Shakopee Lake is part of a chain of shallow lakes connected by the Rum River in Mille Lacs County. The lake is characterized by having dense beds of submergent vegetation consisting of flatstem pondweed, northern watermilfoil, coontail, and large-leaved pondweed. A fringe of cattail can be found around much of the lake. The most common shallow water substrate was sand. The lake has a reputation for providing quality open water and winter angling experiences for Walleye, Northern Pike, Black Crappie, and Bluegill. Anglers often use the lake when weather conditions make it difficult for fishing on Mille Lacs Lake. The lake occasionally experiences partial winterkills which temporarily set back fish populations. The fish community in the lake is dominated by species like Northern Pike and bullhead which are more tolerant of low oxygen and thrive under conditions found in Shakopee Lake. Fewer fish overall were caught in the 2013 survey which may have been weather related rather than reflective of fish abundance.
Northern Pike appear to be abundant and the average size in the survey about nineteen inches or 1.8 pounds, however, there were some fish over thirty inches observed. The species has prime spawning habitat downstream in Onamia Lake as well as marsh areas around inlets. Some pike migration from Mille Lacs Lake has been documented so anglers have the potential to hook a trophy size fish. Walleye numbers were down from the last survey but average size caught in the nets was 2.5 pounds. Walleye fry are stocked in odd numbered years, which supplements natural reproduction, and immigration from Mille Lacs Lake and the Rum River. Black Crappie and Bluegill numbers were also down from the last survey but some quality size fish were observed. Anglers also report seeing or catching an occasional Muskellunge and a Tiger Muskellunge was one of the species caught in the survey. These fish are likely immigrants from Mille Lacs Lake. Yellow Perch numbers showed an increase in abundance which should benefit the fish community. While anglers may not be happy with perch stealing their bait, perch can be an important food fish for both Northern Pike and Walleye as well as other species. All three bullhead species reside in Shakopee Lake with Black Bullhead being the most common. Quality size individuals up to eleven inches or more were caught of each species. Bowfin or Dogfish are present and even though they are not considered a food fish, they can provide some angling excitement. While Common Carp are present in the lake, they do not appear to be at a level detrimental to the lake's habitat.
Shakopee Lake has an abundance of undeveloped shoreline and quality emergent vegetation stands throughout the lake. Portions of the north and south shoreline are within the boundaries of Mille Lacs Kathio State Park, which provides protection for valuable fish and wildlife habitats. Preservation of natural shoreline conditions will help to maintain a natural ecosystem that will benefit a wide range of fish and wildlife species. When water levels are low, launching bigger boats at the access can be a challenge. Zebra mussels, eurasian watermilfoil, and spiny waterfleas have been identified in Mille Lacs Lake which is up stream of Shakopee Lake. Remember to check your boat trailer for vegetation and drain any water in the boat before leaving the access to slow the spread of exotics to other lakes.

What is the average air temp for Shakopee Lake?

Are there any state parks near Shakopee Lake?