Lake Pepin on the Mississippi River, though bounded by dams at Hager City and Alma, WI, is actually a naturally occurring lake that was formed over time by sediment deposits that created a barrier, constricting the Mississippi’s flow at the mouth of the Chippewa River tributary.At 21 miles long and roughly 25.000 acres in size, Lake Pepin has 100-plus miles of shoreline punctuated by fish-holding points, rip-rap and steep breaklines. Moreover, the lake’s diverse and abundant forage b…

At just over 4,000 acres in size, Itasca County’s Deer Lake is one of the state’s most interesting and unique inland waters. The Deer River flows from this lake, but the lake itself has no natural inlets. Water levels are sustained by rainfall, run-off and springs.And because of the distinct mineral make up of the surrounding rocks and soil, the clear water in Deer Lake has a beautiful turquoise hue that seems to change with the angle and intensity of the sunlight.

This lake in Itasca County supports a diverse sport fishery which includes good populations of walleyes, yellow perch, northern pike and black crappies. Team Northland pro and premier fishing guide, Brian “Bro” Brosdahl, in fact, calls it “one of the hottest lakes in northern Minnesota.”“It’s surprisingly good for just about every sportfish species,” he adds, “and has a great reputation for consistent walleye fishing.”At 9,500 acres in size, …

Stump Lake, in Nelson County, lies just east—and is connected to—Devils Lake. And while it may be smaller and less famous than its neighbor, the walleye action it offers is equal in every way.Like Devils Lake, this body of water has no natural inlets or outlets and is fed by runoff from its surrounding area. At one time Stump was fairly shallow and salty, supporting only northern pike and a meager population of yellow perch.

Located in northern Minnesota’s Beltrami County, Blackduck Lake enjoys a well-deserved reputation as a consistent walleye producer. Consequently, it’s a popular angling destination that sees its fair share of fishing pressure, especially during the open-water seasons.Stocking and natural reproduction both contribute to the lake’s reliable walleye numbers and anglers generally experience better-than-average catch rates of “eater size” walleyes—fish in the 14- t…