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Frequently Asked Questions About Paul Lake, MN
- How big is Paul Lake?
- How deep is Paul Lake?
- What kind of fish can you catch in Paul Lake?
- What are the closest cities to Paul Lake?
- Are there places to stay in the Paul Lake area?
- Are there boat launches on Paul Lake?
- Are there places to eat and drink near Paul Lake?
- What is the average air temp for Paul Lake?
- Are there any state parks near Paul Lake?
How big is Paul Lake?
How deep is Paul Lake?
What kind of fish can you catch in Paul Lake?
Other fish species in the lake include Banded Killifish, Bluntnose Minnow, Fathead Minnow, Johnny Darter and White Sucker.
What are the closest cities to Paul Lake?
Are there places to stay in the Paul Lake area?
More Lodging Options
Are there boat launches on Paul Lake?
Are there places to eat and drink near Paul Lake?
Explore the Paul Lake area in a RV
Are you looking for an adventurous vacation option that won't break the bank? Look no further than renting an RV! Contrary to popular belief, the process is much simpler than you might imagine. With just a few easy steps, you'll soon be experiencing the ultimate freedom and convenience of exploring the open road in your very own recreational vehicle. And the best part? RV travel can save you up to 60% compared to other types of vacations! With the money you'll save, you'll be able to travel even more and create unforgettable memories along the way. So why wait? Start planning your next adventure today with an RV rental. Learn more about renting a RV.
What aquatic invasive species are found in Paul Lake?
Join us in the fight to prevent the spread of invasive species These sneaky creatures can hitch a ride on boats, clinging onto propellers, anchor lines, and trailers. They can even survive in hidden places like bilge water and ballast tanks, or disguise themselves in dirt and sand that sticks to nets, buckets, anchors, and waders. But don't worry, we have the power to stop them in their tracks with just a few simple steps. So let's do our part and protect our waters from these unwanted invaders.
History & Status of the Fishery
Paul Lake is a 319-acre mesotrophic (moderately fertile) lake located in north-central Otter Tail County approximately six miles west of Perham, MN. Paul Lake is located within the Otter Tail River Watershed. The immediate watershed is composed of hardwood forest interspersed with agricultural land and marshes. The maximum depth is 81 feet; however, 34% of the lake is 15 feet or less in depth. The secchi disk reading was 19.1 feet, indicating excellent water clarity. Secchi disk readings have ranged from 16.0 to 23.0 feet in previous surveys.
Development is located around the entire lake with the exception of the north shoreline. There are approximately 70 homes and one resort located along the lakeshore. The shoreline length is 3.0 miles and shoal water substrates consist primarily of sand and gravel. A DNR owned concrete public water access is located off of County Road 34 along the north shoreline. Areas of emergent aquatic macrophytes are extremely limited.
Walleye is primary management specie in Paul Lake. Walleyes ranged in length from 8.3 to 24.8 inches with an average length and weight of 19.3 inches and 2.7 pounds. Walleyes attain an average length of 14.8 inches at age four.
Northern Pike ranged in length from 11.5 to 37.1 inches with an average length and weight of 19.7 inches and 1.8 pounds. Northern Pike attain an average length of 23.2 inches at age five.
Age data suggest that Largemouth Bass reproduction is consistently good. Largemouth Bass ranged in length from 6.5 to 19.5 inches with an average length and weight of 11.6 inches and 1.0 pounds. Largemouth Bass attain an average length of 11.5 inches at age five.
Bluegill abundance appears to have stabilized after considerable fluctuation prior to 2002. Bluegill size structure is good with 20% of the sample measuring 7.0 inches or greater in length. Bluegills attain an average length of 7.0 inches at age six.
Anglers can maintain the quality of fishing by practicing selective harvest. Selective harvest encourages the release of medium to large-size fish while allowing the harvest of more abundant smaller fish for table fare. Releasing the medium to large fish will ensure that the lake will have enough spawning age fish on an annual basis and will provide anglers with more opportunities to catch large fish in the future.
What is the average air temp for Paul Lake?
Are there any state parks near Paul Lake?
For more Minnesota State Park information see our State Park Guide.
More Nearby Lakes To Explore
There's more lake's to explore around Paul Lake...| DISTANCE | ACRES | MAX DEPTH | |
| Rusch Lake | 0.7 mi | 98 | 32 ft |
| Little McDonald Lake | 0.9 mi | 1,312 | 109 ft |
| Moenkedick Lake | 1.1 mi | 103 | 35 ft |
| Grunard Lake | 2.3 mi | 121 | 37 ft |
| Wolf Lake (West Wolf) | 2.4 mi | 73 | 51 ft |
| Devils Lake | 2.9 mi | 355 | 67 ft |
| Tenter Lake | 3.2 mi | 83 | 63 ft |
| Big McDonald Lake | 3.4 mi | 992 | 46 ft |
| McDonald Lake | 3.5 mi | 561 | 33 ft |
| Pine Lake (Reames) | 3.6 mi | 71 | 33 ft |
