Villard Lake
Pope County, Minnesota
Today's Fishing Forecast
Fishing looks to be fairly active with peak fishing times around 3-5 PM. SEE MORE
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We want to see what you've caught on Villard Lake.Frequently Asked Questions About Villard Lake, MN
- How big is Villard Lake?
- How deep is Villard Lake?
- What kind of fish can you catch in Villard Lake?
- What are the closest cities to Villard Lake?
- Are there places to stay in the Villard Lake area?
- Are there boat launches on Villard Lake?
- Are there places to eat and drink near Villard Lake?
- What are the fishing regulations for Villard Lake?
- What is the average air temp for Villard Lake?
- Are there any state parks near Villard Lake?
How big is Villard Lake?
How deep is Villard Lake?
What kind of fish can you catch in Villard Lake?
Other fish species in the lake include Banded Killifish, Blackchin Shiner, Bluntnose Minnow, Johnny Darter and White Sucker.
What are the closest cities to Villard Lake?
Are there places to stay in the Villard Lake area?
More Lodging Options
Are there boat launches on Villard Lake?
Are there places to eat and drink near Villard Lake?
What are the fishing regulations for Villard Lake?
There are specific fishing regulations Villard 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?
Explore the Villard Lake 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 Villard Lake?
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 2022 on Lake Villard 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 moderate, and only a few Bluegill over 8 inches were observed in the survey. Growth rates of Bluegill in Lake Villard are below average and 7 year old Bluegill averaged almost 7 inches in length. The largest Bluegill observed in the survey was just over 9 inches. Black Crappie catch rates were also low, but most of the sample consisted of quality sized fish. Approximately 84% of the fish were greater than 10 inches in length. Black Crappie growth rates are below average; average length of age 6 fish was 11 inches. The largest Black Crappie in the sample was almost 14 inches and the oldest crappie was 12 years old.
Quality fishing opportunities exist in Lake Villard. 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 Villard was designated as an infested water due to the discovery of zebra mussels in 2020. 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 Villard Lake?
Are there any state parks near Villard Lake?
For more Minnesota State Park information see our State Park Guide.
More Nearby Lakes To Explore
There's more lake's to explore around Villard Lake...| DISTANCE | ACRES | MAX DEPTH | |
| Leven Lake | 1.3 mi | 282 | 33 ft |
| Amelia Lake | 1.8 mi | 934 | 69 ft |
| Unnamed Lake | 2.2 mi | 15 | |
| Swan Lake | 4.0 mi | 188 | |
| Westport Lake | 4.2 mi | 203 | 12 ft |
| Lovera Lake | 4.4 mi | 89 | |
| Alice Lake | 4.8 mi | 121 | |
| East Ellen Lake | 4.9 mi | 89 | |
| Frederick Lake | 5.6 mi | 32 | |
| Maple Lake | 6.0 mi | 831 | 78 ft |
