Little Jessie Lake

How big is Little Jessie Lake?

How deep is Little Jessie Lake?

What kind of fish can you catch in Little Jessie Lake?

What are the closest cities to Little Jessie Lake?

Are there boat launches on Little Jessie Lake?

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Little Jessie is managed for Walleye through a biennial fingerling stocking schedule in odd years. Walleye are a primary management species with a goal of maintaining catches at the high end of similar lakes capability. Northern Pike are a primary management species as well but with a more attainable goal of catches near the lake type average. Smallmouth Bass and Bluegill are secondary management species. The management plan had a goal of a Yellow Perch catch at the middle of the expected range. This was one of nine surveys conducted to assess the fish population and Walleye stocking.

It appears Walleye stocking has contributed to a catch within the expected range for lakes in the same class as Little Jessie and similar to the previous survey. The ambitious management goal was not attained and likely reflects the difficulty in regularly attaining above average catches. Size structure was favorable and similar to previous surveys. The distribution of ages suggests a strong relationship with stocking. It looks as if good angling opportunities exist.

The Northern Pike catch was the lowest observed though catches have typically been at the low end of the range. Low density usually corresponds to favorable size structure; however, this was not the case. About a third of the fish caught were within the north central protected slot length (22" to 26") and none exceeded 30 inches, comparable to previous surveys. Quality angling opportunities appear limited and anglers are encouraged to release larger fish.

A few Smallmouth Bass have been caught in most surveys, including a notable size structure as well. The five gill net sampled fish averaged 17 inches. Anglers willing to put in time would likely be rewarded with quality size fish.

Bluegill were sampled at a rate just below the expected range and considerably lower than the previous survey. Size structure was poor and comparable to previous surveys, though a few fish over eight inches have been sampled. Moderate angling opportunities exist but prospects for larger individuals is likely limited.

Catches for Yellow Perch have typically been near average, except 2019, which was well below the expected range. The low density of predators suggests other factors limiting perch numbers. Fish over nine inches have occasionally been caught which suggests a slight fishery exists.

Other species sampled included Bowfin, Hybrid Sunfish, Largemouth Bass, Pumpkinseed Sunfish, Rock Bass, Tullibee/Cisco, White Sucker and Yellow Bullhead.

What is the average air temp for Little Jessie Lake?

Are there any state parks near Little Jessie Lake?