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Lake Minnewaska

Pope County, Minnesota

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Minnewaska Lake is a large, deep lake located in the west-central part of Minnesota. It is situated near the town of Glenwood and covers an area of approximately 8,050 acres. The lake is a popular recreational destination, known for its clear waters, scenic beauty, and abundant recreational opportunities.

The lake has a maximum depth of 32 feet and an average depth of 17 feet. It is surrounded by rocky cliffs and rolling hills, which provide a picturesque backdrop for water-based activities such as boating, fishing, swimming, and kayaking. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including walleye, northern pike, bass, and sunfish, which are popular targets for anglers.

Minnewaska Lake is also an important ecological resource, providing habitat for a variety of plant and animal species. The lake is part of the Minnewaska Area Wildlife Management Area, which is managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to protect and conserve the area's natural resources.

In addition to its natural beauty and recreational opportunities, Minnewaska Lake is surrounded by several parks, campgrounds, and resorts, making it a popular vacation destination. The area also offers hiking and biking trails, golf courses, and other outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy.

Overall, Minnewaska Lake is a popular and vibrant natural resource in west-central Minnesota, offering a wide range of recreational opportunities and ecological significance.


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Frequently Asked Questions About Lake Minnewaska, MN


How big is Lake Minnewaska?
Lake Minnewaska is approximately 8,050 sq acres (32.6 sq km) in size with 20 miles (32.2 km) of shoreline.

How deep is Lake Minnewaska?
Lake Minnewaska is approximately 32 feet (9.8 m) at its deepest point with an average depth of 17 feet (5.2 m).

What kind of fish can you catch in Lake Minnewaska?
Although thery may be others but anglers can expect to find a variety of fish including Bigmouth Buffalo, Black Bullhead, Black Crappie, Bluegill, Bowfin, Brown Bullhead, Carp, Largemouth Bass, Muskie, Northern Pike, Pumpkinseed, Smallmouth Bass, Walleye, White Crappie, Yellow Bullhead and Yellow Perch in Lake Minnewaska.

Other fish species in the lake include Cisco (Tullibee), Freshwater Drum, Golden Shiner, Green Sunfish, Hybrid Sunfish and White Sucker.



What are the closest cities to Lake Minnewaska?
Nearby cities and towns include Long Beach, MN, Glenwood, MN and Starbuck, MN.

Are there places to stay in the Lake Minnewaska area?
Are you craving a weekend escape from the hustle and bustle of city life? Or maybe you're an avid angler in search of the perfect fishing spot? Look no further! Lake Minnewaska and its surrounding area offer an abundance of options to suit your needs. If you're in need of accommodation, check out our area map which highlights some of the best places to stay. And if you're looking for even more options, head on over to our Travel section. But why settle for a traditional hotel or resort when you can take your adventure to the next level by renting a RV? The open road awaits you!
More Lodging Options

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

Are there boat launches on Lake Minnewaska?
We know of 3 public boat launches on Lake Minnewaska. Please observe any specific lake regulations posted by the boat launch and please help keep the launch area free of litter.

Are there places to eat and drink near Lake Minnewaska?
Yes, you can find numerous options in the area. Click the button below to see what's nearby.

What are the fishing regulations for Lake Minnewaska?
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources There are specific fishing regulations Lake Minnewaska 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?

Explore the Lake Minnewaska area in a RV
Are you looking for an adventurous vacation option that won't break the bank? Look no further than renting an RV! Contrary to popular belief, the process is much simpler than you might imagine. With just a few easy steps, you'll soon be experiencing the ultimate freedom and convenience of exploring the open road in your very own recreational vehicle. And the best part? RV travel can save you up to 60% compared to other types of vacations! With the money you'll save, you'll be able to travel even more and create unforgettable memories along the way. So why wait? Start planning your next adventure today with an RV rental. Learn more about renting a RV.

Volante 2022 Crossroads Volante 32FB
Volante 2022 Crossroads Volante 32FB
36 ftSleeps 10
Glenwood, MN
$150/nightMORE
Eileen 2024 Starcraft 27 BH
Eileen 2024 Starcraft 27 BH
30 ftSleeps 10
Glenwood, MN
$150/nightMORE
Marina 2024 Starcraft 26BHS
Marina 2024 Starcraft 26BHS
30 ftSleeps 10
Glenwood, MN
$150/nightMORE
William 2024 Starcraft 26BH
William 2024 Starcraft 26BH
30 ftSleeps 10
Glenwood, MN
$150/nightMORE
More RV Options
What aquatic invasive species are found in Lake Minnewaska?
There are some aquatic invasive species found in Lake Minnewaska including starry stonewort, zebra mussel and Eurasian watermilfoil.

Join us in the fight to prevent the spread of invasive species These sneaky creatures can hitch a ride on boats, clinging onto propellers, anchor lines, and trailers. They can even survive in hidden places like bilge water and ballast tanks, or disguise themselves in dirt and sand that sticks to nets, buckets, anchors, and waders. But don't worry, we have the power to stop them in their tracks with just a few simple steps. So let's do our part and protect our waters from these unwanted invaders.



History & Status of the Fishery

A targeted survey was completed in the spring of 2023 on Lake Minnewaska to assess the Bluegill and Black Crappie populations. A special regulation that reduced the daily sunfish limit from 20 down to 10 was also implemented in the spring of 2022. The goal of this new regulation is to maintain or increase the average size of Bluegill. This survey will be used to help evaluate effects of the regulation on the Bluegill population. Bluegill catch rates were high, and some quality fish were observed during the survey. Thirteen percent of the Bluegill were over 8 inches in length. Growth rates of Bluegill in Lake Minnewaska are moderate and 7 year old Bluegill averaged 7.0 inches in length. The largest Bluegill observed in the survey was 9.1 inches. Black Crappie catch rates were low, but most of the sample consisted of quality sized fish. Approximately 52% of the fish were greater than 10 inches in length. Black Crappie growth rates are fast; average length of age 4 fish was 10.2 inches. The largest Black Crappie in the sample was 12.6 inches.

Quality fishing opportunities exist for multiple species in Lake Minnewaska. Anglers are encouraged to practice selective harvest to help sustain the quality of the fishery. Selective harvest encourages the release of larger fish while promoting harvest of more abundant smaller fish. Releasing medium to large fish can help restore and maintain fish community balance, as well as increase opportunities to catch large fish in the future.

Lake Minnewaska is designated as infested with Eurasian watermilfoil, starry stonewort and zebra mussels. Recreational users should take necessary precautions to prevent further spread of invasive species. Drain all water and remove all aquatic vegetation from your boat and trailer when leaving any body of water.


What is the average air temp for Lake Minnewaska?
Looking forward to your next adventure at Lake Minnewaska? Don't forget to plan ahead! Weather can be unpredictable, but we've got you covered. On average, air temperatures during this time of year range from a high around 76°F (24°C) to a low around 57°F (14°C). Of course, these are just historical averages, so be prepared for anything Mother Nature throws your way. For the most up-to-date weather information, be sure to check out our Weather Bar located at the top of this page.

Are there any state parks near Lake Minnewaska?
Enjoy more of the outdoors with a visit to an area state park. There are 2 state parks in the vacinity of Lake Minnewaska.

For more Minnesota State Park information see our State Park Guide.

Lake Minnewaska Reviews
Below is the word on street about Lake Minnewaska.
Have you been to Lake Minnewaska? Why not share your personal reveiw with others?
Submit Review
linda v.
5 star rating
Lake Minnewaska is a clean lake with healthy fish. Whether fishing for Northern early in the morning or bass and sunfish throughout the day, the fishing is great.
Reviewed Jun 24, 2009
nathan l.
5 star rating
This Is A Great Fishery. I Have Caught More Fish Here Than Anywhere Else!!!!!!
Reviewed May 5, 2000
bob
5 star rating
This Is The Awsomest Lake. You Can Catch Anything. Favorite Place To Fish
Reviewed Feb 11, 2000

More Nearby Lakes To Explore
There's more lake's to explore around Lake Minnewaska...
DISTANCE ACRES MAX DEPTH
Fosse Lake 1.5 mi 27 0 ft
Pelican Lake 2.1 mi 518 34 ft
Unnamed Lake 3.7 mi 10
Gilbertson Lake 3.7 mi 84
White Star Lake 3.8 mi 86
State Lake 4.3 mi 143
Strandness Lake 5.0 mi 92 5 ft
Unnamed Lake 5.2 mi 10
Unnamed Lake 5.4 mi 17
Wallin Lake 5.4 mi 128
DISCLAIMER: Lake-Link Inc assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions of the information for Lake Minnewaska. Although we strive to provide the most accurate information as we can the information contained in this page is provided on an "as is" basis with no guarantees of completeness, accuracy, usefulness or timeliness.

MINN KOTA - Ulterra Trolling Motors
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HUMMINBIRD - XPLORE Fish Finders
XPLORE Fish Finders
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