Fishing in Pope County, Minnesota

What this local map set contains

The Pope County directory currently covers 22 lakes or reservoirs. 18 charts use measured bathymetry from a published source; 4 charts are clearly labeled as modeled. Recorded maximum depths range from 3 to 60 ft, with a median of 15 ft. Those figures describe each chart's deepest recorded or modeled point, not a safe navigation depth.

Species records are attached to 22 of 22 waters. The most frequently cataloged targets are Bluegill (21), Largemouth Bass (21), Northern Pike (21), Pumpkinseed (21) and Walleye (21). These are coverage counts, not abundance estimates or catch forecasts; open the individual map to see the evidence and seasonal context attached to that water.

Three useful maps to compare first

1. Lake Minnewaska: 30 ft maximum; survey-backed contours; 18 cataloged target species.
2. Emily: 3 ft maximum; survey-backed contours; 16 cataloged target species.
3. Pelican: 30 ft maximum; survey-backed contours; 15 cataloged target species.

Start with a survey-backed chart when exact contour shape matters most. Use a modeled chart as broad planning context, then verify depths on the water. Comparing the three examples above also shows whether this area offers one dominant basin type or genuinely different shallow, deep, lake and river options. Access is separate from map coverage: confirm launches, shore rights, closures and posted rules before making the trip.