Rock Lake

How big is Rock Lake?

How deep is Rock Lake?

What kind of fish can you catch in Rock Lake?

What are the closest cities to Rock Lake?

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

Rock Lake

Are there boat launches on Rock Lake?

Are there places to eat and drink near Rock Lake?

Rock Lake is located 6 miles west of McGregor in east central Aitkin County. The public access is located on the north side of this moderately developed lake. This 300 acre lake is shallow and has a history of partial winterkills. The recent strong winterkills probably took place the winters of 1996-1997, 2012-2013 and 2013-2014; although, as this report was prepared we did receive another report of a likely kill beginning in February 2018. Partial winterkills are likely to have occurred in other years too, but were never reported or documented. Winterkills are not necessarily a bad thing and historically were fairly common in Minnesota. In recent years, winters have not been as harsh and winterkills have not been as prevalent on a statewide scale. Partial winterkills are usually good for lakes particularly when it comes to bluegills. Following a winterkill there are typically enough survivors to repopulate the lake and growth rates tend to be very good for some time. As densities increase with the addition of each new year class, the survival decreases and growth rates slow. The lake then winterkills again, thereby decreasing density, and the whole process of high survival and fast growth repeats itself. When these lakes go several years without a winterkill, they can provide for excellent fisheries. As of 2017, black crappie, bluegill and northern pike populations were healthy and rebuilding. Largemouth bass were not sampled in 2017, but are known to inhabit the lake and sometimes take longer to recover from winterkill situations.

It appeared fish populations were beginning to recover from the most recent known winterkills in 2012-13 and 2013-14. The previous survey, in 2007, showed that populations of gamefish including northern pike, black crappie, bluegill and yellow perch were present in good numbers. The 2017 assessment showed much lower numbers for those same species, but they were mostly still within the normal ranges for this lake. Sizes were overall pretty good, especially for the panfish. Yellow perch numbers did go down somewhat since 2007, although they were still above normal levels for this lake type. Good perch populations are often a key component to quality fisheries.

While no AIS are present at this time, extra diligence is in order to prevent the spread from other waters. Lake users and shoreland owners should be remember to follow AIS rules for boating and installing/removing dock equipment.

What is the average air temp for Rock Lake?

Are there any state parks near Rock Lake?