Janette Lake

How big is Janette Lake?

How deep is Janette Lake?

What kind of fish can you catch in Janette Lake?

Are there boat launches on Janette Lake?

Are there places to eat and drink near Janette Lake?

Janette Lake is located about 9 miles northeast of Goodland, MN. The lake is in ecological lake class #13 and located in the St. Louis River Watershed. Janette Lake is 137 acres, has a littoral area of 119 acres (87%) and a maximum depth of 23 feet. The lake has soft water and moderate fertility.

The Lake Management Plan (LMP) was last revised in 2004. Walleye and black crappie were the primary management species and northern pike and largemouth bass were secondary species.

A resurvey was conducted in 2013 to collect detailed information about Janette Lake, determine the status of the fish community, and evaluate the usefulness of fingerling stocking. The assessment included spring electrofishing for largemouth bass.

Northern pike were the most common fish in the gill net sample. The catch rate was the highest recorded for Janette Lake, but similar to lakes with similar habitats. Size structure was poor, as pike ranged from 15.8 to 22.2 inches. Pike averaged 16.0 inches. Age analysis of bony structures identified three year classes (1-3). Northern pike populations are often dominated by age 2-5 pike, and age distribution from Janette was unusual. The lack of older, larger pike may indicate poor past recruitment, high adult mortality, or a combination of both. Growth was near the statewide average, as pike typically attained 18 inches by age 3. Poor size structure likely limits the popularity of the pike fishery.

Walleye were the second most common fish in the gill net sample. The catch rate was within the typical compared to similar lakes, but was above average for Janette Lake. Length ranged from 7.8 to 20.6 inches and walleye averaged 15.8 inches. Age analysis identified four year classes (ages 1-3 and age 5). All but one walleye corresponded to a stocked year. Growth was near the statewide average with walleye typically attaining 17 inches by age 5.

Black crappies were caught in low numbers by trap nets, but the gill net catch was typical for the lake type. Summer trap netting may be a poor indicator of crappie abundance in Janette Lake. The size structure was poor, as few crappies exceeded 8 inches. Black crappie populations often exhibit irregular recruitment resulting in dominant year classes, shifting age and size structures, and inconsistent angler success. Six year classes were identified and recruitment was inconsistent as most fish belonged to the 2010 and 2011 year classes. Growth was near the statewide average with crappie exceeding 8 inches by age 4 and 10 inches by age 6. Good crappie fishing may periodically exist.

The bluegill catch was typical compared to similar lakes, but below average for Janette Lake. Size structure was moderate. Lengths ranged from 3.2 to 8.7 inches with an average length of 6.7 inches. Nine year classes were identified and recruitment appeared consistent. Growth was near the lake class average with bluegill exceeding 6 inches by age 5.

Largemouth bass were captured by electrofishing in early June. The catch rate suggests that bass are common in Janette Lake. Size structure was moderate, as largemouth bass ranged from 7.5 to 16.9 inches and bass averaged 13.6 inches. Growth was near the statewide average as bass typically exceeded 12 inches by age 5. Janette Lake should produce good bass fishing opportunities.

Other species captured included hybrid sunfish, pumpkinseed, and yellow bullhead. It should be noted that yellow perch were present in past samples but were not captured in 2013.

Janette Lake is not known to support invasive species. Anglers and boaters are reminded to help stop the spread of invasive species by removing all aquatic plants from boats, trailers, and equipment. All drain plugs must be removed and live and bait wells must be drained before leaving the access. Anglers and boaters are encouraged to power wash and thoroughly dry all equipment prior to use in another water body.

What is the average air temp for Janette Lake?

Are there any state parks near Janette Lake?