Traverse Lake

How big is Traverse Lake?

How deep is Traverse Lake?

What kind of fish can you catch in Traverse Lake?

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

Traverse Lake (Central)

Traverse Lake (East)

Traverse Lake (West)

Are there boat launches on Traverse Lake?

Are there places to eat and drink near Traverse Lake?

Traverse Lake is located in western Minnesota just north of Browns Valley. It is a narrow lake that measures 16 miles long and up to two miles wide. Traverse has a surface area of 11,528 acres and a maximum depth of 12 feet. It is a highly productive lake and a popular recreational destination in west-central Minnesota. Anglers should study the lake's contour map before boating as shallow reef areas exist, especially near the islands and in the northwest portion of the lake. Traverse is a Minnesota-South Dakota border water and is subject to border water fishing regulations. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and South Dakota Department of Game, Fish, and Parks cooperatively manage the fishery.

Traverse Lake has typically provided a high quality walleye fishery. Walleye from a wide range of sizes were abundant during 2014, especially from 12-18 inches. Good numbers of trophy-sized walleye have frequently been reported by anglers for many years. The walleye population has been maintained by natural reproduction and supplemental fry stocking. Walleye fry are normally stocked during alternate years, but the schedule is adjusted as needed based on walleye abundance, condition, and available forage. Fry stocking maintained the walleye population from 2003-05, whereas natural reproduction has produced the vast majority of the walleye since 2006.

Pike were moderately abundant in 2014. The majority of them were 18-22 inches, but fish up to 35 inches were present. Pike growth has been fast, but they die young and fish older than age four have rarely been sampled. Pike naturally reproduce in Traverse Lake and its tributaries. They can also migrate into Traverse from Mud Lake during high flows.

A moderate bluegill population was present. Anglers have reported catching bluegills in excess of 10 inches during recent years. The mid-lake rock piles are good fishing locations for them.

Yellow bullheads can commonly be caught at the Mustinka Bridge near the northeast corner of Traverse. Yellow bullheads have a round tail and white barbells on their lower jaw. Bullheads measuring up to 14 inches were present. Channel catfish have been abundant during recent years, including fish up to 30 inches. Smaller channel catfish and larger bullheads can be very good to eat when filleted and deep fried.

Traverse Lake often provides good fishing for white bass and freshwater drum. These species are well suited to the habitat conditions and they frequently experience good natural reproduction. Both species have a delicate white flesh and can be an excellent food fish. Their flavor can be further improved by trimming the reddish "mud line" meat from the fillets when cleaning. Anglers are encouraged to harvest and consume them. Very simple and delicious recipes for preparing drum can be located on the internet by searching "drum recipes". Of course, the recipes can be used for any kind of fish.

What is the average air temp for Traverse Lake?

Are there any state parks near Traverse Lake?