Minnesota Fishing Opener: Leech Lake Facts & Fish

May 7, 2018

Fishing opener has been a tradition in Minnesota since 1948. This weekend, on May 11th, marks the 2018 Minnesota Fishing Opener! Planning to celebrate by fishing on Leech Lake? Here are a few facts about Leech Lake and a list of the fish that can be found there to help get you excited for this weekend!

Leech Lake is the third largest lake in Minnesota. It covers 111,527 acres, has approx. 230 miles of shoreline. Its depth reaches a maximum of 150 ft. even though over 80% of the lake is less than 35 ft. deep.
Walker, Cass, and Federal Dam, MN offer several lodging options on the shores of Leech Lake to help you plan the perfect fishing vacation. This includes resorts, lake cabins, camping grounds, RV parks, hotels and bed & breakfasts.
Although several rivers feed into the lake the only major outlet is Leech River.
The lake is surrounded by the Chippewa National Forest. Most of Leech Lake also lies within the boundaries of the Leech Lake Indian Reservation.

What are you hoping to catch on Leech Lake? Whether you’re dreaming of a “Big Catch” to mount on the wall or just hoping to catch dinner there are several types of fish to be caught on Leech Lake. If your looking for a guide to fishing Leech Lake Fishing Reports is a great place to start!

Walleyes: The most sought-after fish on Leech Lake. The fishery is presently at peak levels with populations of fish from 13 in. to over 25 in.! Leech Lake has a 4-fish limit with a protected slot of 20” to 26”.
Northern Pike: These fish are fighters, putting up a good fight and making fishing fun! Located throughout the lake they are sure to be a staple in your fish dinner.
Muskie: This fish is what legends are made out of. Due to catch & release ethic, Leech Lake is the home to more “Big Catches” than ever. Your fish story could easily feature a Muskie over 50”.
Bass: If you find yourself in shallow water with heavy cover get ready to catch some largemouth bass! Leech Lake is unmatched in the Midwest for these easily looked over fish.
Perch: Aggressive in the fall but fun to catch all season these fish are the best eating fish in the lake.
Sunnies: Aka Bluegill or Sunfish, these tasty panfish will remind you of childhood days spent in the sun with a cane pole and garden worms. Fun to catch for the entire family!
Crappie: This elusive fish is most often found on warm spring days, midsummer night’s and again in the fall. Leech Lake hosts a youth crappie tournament in the Spring.
Eelpout: This freshwater cod is easy to catch through the ice but stays deep during open water season.
Prey Species: This is what the gamefish are having for dinner. Primary prey for gamefish in Leech Lake are perch, crayfish, and minnows. Insects and invertebrates also play a part in the food chain.

Remember whatever you are fishing for have fun and be safe! Goodluck!