Sand Lake

How big is Sand Lake?

How deep is Sand Lake?

What kind of fish can you catch in Sand Lake?

Are there boat launches on Sand Lake?

Are there places to eat and drink near Sand Lake?

What are the fishing regulations for Sand Lake?

There are specific fishing regulations Sand Lake that you need to know. For complete fishing regulations visit the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. To report a violation call (800) 652-9093. Need a Minnesota fishing license?

Sand Lake is located about fifteen miles west of Isabella on the west side of Lake Co Hwy 2 and is 486 acres in size with a maximum depth of 11 feet. The primary access is a carry in at the Sand Lake rustic campground maintained by the Forest Service. A second access is located at the end of Forest Service 941, a 0.4 mile spur that originates on Hwy 2. A small boat and trailer can be turned around by hand to launch, but space for parking is limited. This trail is narrow, rough, and a four-wheel drive vehicle with good ground clearance is recommended. Walleye have been the primary management species in Sand Lake since the first Lake Management Plan in 1987. The lake was stocked with Walleye fry for many years. In 2016 the decision was made to end stocking due to consistent strong year classes produced in non-stocked years. In 2000, adult Bluegill of various sizes were stocked in the lake and have since established a self-sustaining population with excellent size structure. The lake currently has a special regulation of a reduced bag limit on Bluegill of 5 daily and 20 in possession to help preserve this quality fishery.

The 2022 Walleye gill net catch of 14.44/lift was higher than average compared to similar lakes and was the highest catch on Sand Lake since 1961. The average weight was 0.65 pounds, which is below the normal range compared to similar lakes. The average length was 11.9 inches with the largest fish sampled measuring 25.6 inches long. Analysis determined over 85% of Walleye were from non-stocked years with several strong year classes produced since stocking was discontinued. Survey results suggest that Walleye 12-15 inches long currently provide good opportunities for anglers. With the highest catch in 60 years and most of the fish naturally reproduced it is apparent that the decision to end Walleye stocking was a sound one at this time.

The Bluegill trap net catch of 3.33/lift with an average weight of 0.21 pounds was within the normal range compared to other similar lakes. Growth was also average for the area. While there are some very nice Bluegill present, most anglers report catching an occasional keeper while fishing for Walleyes and Perch.

The Northern Pike gill net catch of 3.44/lift with an average weight of 1.60 pounds was within the normal range of other similar lakes. Average length was 19 inches long. The largest fish sampled was 33 inches long with just 10% of the catch at least 24 inches. Survey results suggest than most of the Northern Pike are small, but there is a reasonable chance at catching a memorable sized fish.

The Yellow Perch gill net catch of 6.22/lift with an average weight of 0.24 pounds is average compared to other similar lakes. Most of the catch was between 6.5-9.5 inches long with 21% longer than 9 inches and the largest fish measuring 10.9 inches long. These results suggest that the lake currently supports a perch population with decent opportunities for angler harvest.

What is the average air temp for Sand Lake?

Are there any state parks near Sand Lake?