Fishing in McLean County, North Dakota

What this local map set contains

The McLean County directory currently covers 12 lakes or reservoirs. 11 charts use measured bathymetry from a published source; 1 chart is clearly labeled as modeled. Recorded maximum depths range from 18 to 59.4 ft, with a median of 23 ft. Those figures describe each chart's deepest recorded or modeled point, not a safe navigation depth.

Species records are attached to 12 of 12 waters. The most frequently cataloged targets are Walleye (10), Yellow Perch (10), Northern Pike (8), Bluegill (7) and Smallmouth Bass (5). 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. Heckers Lake: 24 ft maximum; survey-backed contours; 7 cataloged target species.
2. East Park Lake: 22 ft maximum; survey-backed contours; 7 cataloged target species.
3. West Park Lake: 24 ft maximum; survey-backed contours; 6 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.