Lake Minnewaska
Pope County, Minnesota
Today's Fishing Forecast
Fishing looks to be not very active with peak fishing times around 4-5 PM. SEE MORE

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.
Share your catch!
We want to see what you've caught on Lake Minnewaska.Frequently Asked Questions About Lake Minnewaska, MN
- How big is Lake Minnewaska?
- How deep is Lake Minnewaska?
- What kind of fish can you catch in Lake Minnewaska?
- What are the closest cities to Lake Minnewaska?
- Are there places to stay in the Lake Minnewaska area?
- Are there topographical lake maps available Lake Minnewaska?
- Are there boat launches on Lake Minnewaska?
- Are there places to eat and drink near Lake Minnewaska?
- What are the fishing regulations for Lake Minnewaska?
- What is the average air temp for Lake Minnewaska?
- Are there any state parks near Lake Minnewaska?
How big is Lake Minnewaska?
How deep is Lake Minnewaska?
What kind of fish can you catch 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?
Are there places to stay in the Lake Minnewaska area?
More Lodging Options
Are there topographical lake maps available Lake Minnewaska?
Are there boat launches on Lake Minnewaska?
Are there places to eat and drink near Lake Minnewaska?
What are the fishing regulations for Lake Minnewaska?
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.
What aquatic invasive species are found in Lake Minnewaska?
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?
Are there any state parks near Lake Minnewaska?
For more Minnesota State Park information see our State Park Guide.
Lake Minnewaska Reviews
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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 |


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