Fishing in Washington County, Minnesota

What this local map set contains

The Washington County directory currently covers 47 lakes or reservoirs, 1 river. 34 charts use measured bathymetry from a published source; 14 charts are clearly labeled as modeled. Recorded maximum depths range from 5 to 120 ft, with a median of 25 ft. Those figures describe each chart's deepest recorded or modeled point, not a safe navigation depth.

Species records are attached to 48 of 48 waters. The most frequently cataloged targets are Bluegill (46), Crappie (43), Largemouth Bass (43), Northern Pike (43) and Pumpkinseed (41). 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. Elmo: 120 ft maximum; survey-backed contours; 18 cataloged target species.
2. Forest Lake: 35 ft maximum; survey-backed contours; 15 cataloged target species.
3. Clear: 25 ft maximum; survey-backed contours; 14 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.