Winnibigoshish Lake
Itasca County, Minnesota
🌤️ Current Conditions
🏞️About Winnibigoshish Lake
Lake Winnibigoshish - "Big Winnie" to locals - is a 58,544-acre walleye and northern pike factory in north-central Minnesota. Fed by the Mississippi River, Winnie is known for consistent walleye action and trophy pike. The lake's relatively shallow average depth (15 feet) keeps fish accessible throughout the season.
⭐Why Fish Winnibigoshish Lake?
- ✓Consistent walleye fishing all season
- ✓Trophy northern pike regularly over 15 pounds
- ✓Good perch and crappie fishing
- ✓Mississippi River source water
- ✓Active ice fishing community
Best for:
💡Local Tips for Winnibigoshish Lake
- 1The "Third River Flowage" area is a walleye magnet
- 2Pike cruise the weed edges all summer
- 3Bena and Deer River offer good access
- 4Ice fishing on Winnie is very popular
- 5Summer walleye often relate to the mud flats
🐟Fish Species
Based on DNR fish surveys, the following species have been documented in Winnibigoshish Lake:
Walleye
Sander vitreus
Good population of eating-size walleye
Minnesota's state fish, prized for excellent table fare and sporting qualities.
Northern Pike
Esox lucius
Healthy pike population
Aggressive predator fish found throughout Minnesota waters.
📋Fishing Regulations
Note: These are statewide regulations. Winnibigoshish Lake may have special regulations. Always verify current rules at DNR Fishing Regulations.
| Species | Possession Limit | Size Limit | Season |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walleye | 6 | No minimum (special regulations on some waters) | May 10 - Feb 23 |
| Northern Pike | 3 | 24" minimum (some waters have slots) | May 10 - Feb 23 |
🗺️DNR Resources
📊Lake Details
- DOW Number
- 31007500
- Surface Area
- 58,544 acres
- Maximum Depth
- 70 feet
- Average Depth
- 18 feet
- County
- Itasca
- Coordinates
- 47.4167°N, 94.0833°W
📍Location
Open in Google Maps →💡Quick Tips
- •Check ice conditions before winter fishing - never trust visual appearance alone
- •Early morning and late evening are typically best for walleye
- •Always have a valid Minnesota fishing license before fishing
- •Clean, drain, and dry boats to prevent invasive species spread