Red Lake River Reservoir

How big is Red Lake River Reservoir?

How deep is Red Lake River Reservoir?

What kind of fish can you catch in Red Lake River Reservoir?

Are there boat launches on Red Lake River Reservoir?

Are there places to eat and drink near Red Lake River Reservoir?

Red Lake River Reservoir is a unique fishing opportunity in northwestern Minnesota that lies entirely with the city of Thief River Falls. The reservoir is maintained by a hydroelectric dam located just downstream of the confluence of the Thief River and Red Lake River. Red Lake River Reservoir has a surface area of 139-acres and a maximum depth of 18 feet. The reservoir is abundant in aquatic vegetation in portions of the reservoir.

A fisheries population assessment was conducted during the summer of 2014. Assessment results indicate variety of species inhabit the reservoir. Walleye were present in the 2014 sample, but at low abundance.

Northern Pike abundance was lower than past surveys. The average size of Northern Pike in the reservoir is 19 inches with largest pike sampled being close to 26 inches. Average length of Northern Pike has increased since the past survey. Anglers have reported catching pike that are 20-30 inches and that 40 inch pike have been caught in the past.

Several panfish including Black Crappie, Bluegill, Pumkinseed, Rock Bass, and Yellow Perch inhabit the reservoir. Poor habitat quality and lack of natural reproduction keeps these species in low abundance. Anglers should expect low catches of these fishes, but of larger size. Average length of Black Crappie and Bluegill is the highest it's been since 1994. Rock Bass abundance remains high in the reservoir and anglers can expect to catch fish averaging 6 inches. Yellow Perch abundance remains low. Yellow Perch length is the highest recorded since 1994 with fish averaging 9 inches. The largest Yellow Perch sampled in 2014 was just over 10 inches.

Common Carp abundance was the highest reported since being first observed in 1994. Average Common Carp length in the reservoir was approximately 19 inches. High abundance of Common Carp may provide plenty of bowfishing opportunity.

Another interesting discovery made during 2014 was the presence of Channel Catfish above the dam. One Channel Catfish was sampled during an educational event and was approximately 14 inches. Overall abundance of Channel Cats above the dam is expected to be low, but a lucky angler might happen to run into one.

Two public water access points are located on the reservoir in the city of Thief River Falls. In addition to fishing opportunities on the reservoir a quality Channel Catfish, Walleye, Northern Pike, and Smallmouth Bass fishery exists downstream of the dam.

Are there any state parks near Red Lake River Reservoir?