About our Waters

Photo courtesy of Randy Harrison

The best kept secret in Minnesota is Cuyuna Country. Our pristine lakes provide excellent fishing for a large variety of species, as well as unique angling opportunities for trout and trophy pike. SERPENT LAKE

Serpent Lake is a beautiful body of clear, fresh water covering 1,116 acres and is approximately 65 feet deep at its deepest point. Around 9-plus miles of shoreline amid birch, pine, oak, and other towering trees. More than 250 homes and cabins hug its meandering shoreline. Located between the cities of Crosby (on its western end) and Deerwood (on the east), Serpent is home to walleye, northern pike, smallmouth and largemouth bass, crappies, and other fish which attract anglers year-round. At the lake’s largest public access point, Crosby Memorial Park, is a large, colorful serpent statue named Kahnah’bek (the Ojibwa name for Serpent). It measures 20 feet high and 25 feet long and weighs 2,500 pounds. There are rumors that the lake’s namesake is because the waters are inhabited by a mythical sea serpent, but a more likely explanation is the shape of the lake.

MINE LAKES

The mine lakes are famous for trout. But, if they are not cooperating, try fishing for northern pike. Submerged stands of timber shelter trophy pike, some pushing 30 pounds. The sunken trees also provide cover for hungry small and largemouth bass. Spinner baits are a great choice because the water does not have a lot of weeds and the bait can be worked through the stands of trees and stumps. A panfish supper awaits if you stay near the underwater trees during low light. Vertically jig in depths under 30 feet around flooded timber and pull up quickly to keep the fish out of trouble.

NATURAL LAKES

Tired of fishing amidst jet skiers and power boats? Experience the solitude on our natural lakes where walleye, northern and largemouth bass are the main targets. Don’t be surprised if you stumble upon slab crappies or big bluegills. Venture to larger waters for that trophy muskie. Launch your boat at the many public access points. If you are looking for peace and quiet, bring a canoe or kayak and relax on one of the many small lakes with limited access. Grab a map, locate a back road, and find your own “honey hole” on one of our tranquil lakes.

UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER

The nearby Mississippi River, with excellent populations of walleye and smallmouth bass, is navigable under normal conditions with a motorized boat, but some prefer to float it in a canoe or kayak. The stretch from Aitkin to Merrifield is both beautiful and rewarding. Catfish populations are booming, and muskies are present here with trophycaliber fish available. Whether boating, floating or fly fishing, check with OarsN-Mine bait and tackle shop in Crosby for lake and river conditions and the local fishing secrets.