Today's Best Fishing Times
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Frequently Asked Questions About Nelson Lake, MN
- How big is Nelson Lake?
- How deep is Nelson Lake?
- What kind of fish can you catch in Nelson Lake?
- What are the closest cities to Nelson Lake?
- Are there places to stay in the Nelson Lake area?
- Are there boat launches on Nelson Lake?
- Are there places to eat and drink near Nelson Lake?
- What is the average air temp for Nelson Lake?
- Are there any state parks near Nelson Lake?
How big is Nelson Lake?
How deep is Nelson Lake?
What kind of fish can you catch in Nelson Lake?
Other fish species in the lake include Golden Shiner and White Sucker.
What are the closest cities to Nelson Lake?
Are there places to stay in the Nelson Lake area?
More Lodging Options
Are there boat launches on Nelson Lake?
Are there places to eat and drink near Nelson Lake?
Explore the Nelson 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.
Cozy 2 bedroom 2018 Forest River Wildcat, , 42? 5th Wheel, Pet friendly.
Glenwood, MN
History & Status of the Fishery
Nelson Lake is a shallow, hyper-eutrophic basin with a history of low dissolved oxygen during winter months. Winterkill events have likely occurred, however, they have been poorly documented. The lake has been classified as a Marginal Game-Fish Lake since the early 1950's and designated as a Migratory Waterfowl Feeding and Resting Area in 1989. Fish management activities have been limited. Improved water clarity has resulted in expansion of submergent vegetation. Water transparency at time of the summer survey was 7.5 feet. The shallow, gravel public access may require a four-wheel drive vehicle to launch a boat.
Quality gamefish populations currently exist in Nelson Lake. Largemouth bass, bluegill, walleye and northern pike abundance has increased. Largemouth bass captures ranged from 3.2 to 19.5 inches in length. Over one-third of the bass catch exceeded 15.0 inches in length. Bluegill catch rates were the highest recorded for Nelson Lake. Mean length of sampled bluegill was 5.6 inches. Several fish exceeded 10.0 inches in length. Growth is rapid with age-3 fish averaging 6.2 inches. The abundant 2007 year class should provide quality fishing opportunities in the near future. In response to alternate-year maintenance stockings, walleye abundance has increased. Age distribution of walleye captured in 2010 corresponded well to stocking chronology. Over three-fourths of walleye captures exceeded 15.0 inches in length. The largest fish measured 24.5 inches in length. Northern pike proved to be abundant. Mean length of sampled fish was 22.9 inches. Several pike exceeded 28.0 inches in length. Yellow perch catches averaged 24.6-fish/gillnet. Average size remains small. Mean length of sampled fish was 6.5 inches. An abundance of 5.0 to 6.0 inch perch are currently present and should provide quality angling opportunities in the near future.
What is the average air temp for Nelson Lake?
Are there any state parks near Nelson 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 Nelson Lake...| DISTANCE | ACRES | MAX DEPTH | |
| Signalness Lake | 4.0 mi | 41 | 14 ft |
| Lake Linka | 4.5 mi | 175 | 50 ft |
| Gilchrist Lake | 5.1 mi | 336 | 24 ft |
| Lake Minnewaska | 6.8 mi | 8,050 | 32 ft |
| Scandinavian Lake | 6.9 mi | 416 | 49 ft |
| Goose Lake | 7.9 mi | 324 | 17 ft |
| Pelican Lake | 8.3 mi | 519 | 34 ft |
| Camp Lake | 8.7 mi | 230 | 26 ft |
| Lake Emily | 9.5 mi | 2,311 | 4 ft |
| Johnson Lake | 10.1 mi | 66 | 7 ft |
