Lake with beach and campground

Fish Trap Lake Vacation Rentals

Fish Trap Lake

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Fish Trap Lake
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Why Rent On Fish Trap Lake

1,175-acre Fish Trap Lake is situated in the state’s central tourism region.
Canoeing, pontooning, horseback riding and camping are perfect pastimes for a sunny day on Fish Trap Lake, along with hydro-biking, kayaking, and paddle boating. Hiking yields fabulous opportunities to observe bald eagles, blue herons and waterfowl. Golfers delight in the three challenging greens that can all be found within a half hour of the lake, including a stunning 18-hole championship course. The wide variety of real estate and vacation rentals truly reflects the lake’s desirability and success.
Hiking and biking trails at Fish Trap Lake are numerous and well kept. The paved, 80-mile Paul Bunyan Bike Trail can be walked, biked or snowmobiled. A trek to Crow Wing Park’s Chippewa Lookout rewards hikers with views of the Mississippi and Crow Wing Rivers. The reserve also features over 18 miles of trails, which pass through a number of historical sites, including several pits leftover from the famous 1768 battle between the Dakota and Ojibwe Native American tribes. Old homes, farms, and a post office from the 1820’s frontier town are also on display. Sweet strawberries grow wild throughout the park, and are ripe for the picking in June. Wildlife enthusiasts will be rewarded with views of black bear, fox, beaver, muskrat, waterfowl, and white-tailed deer, while arborists search the woodlands for a variety of endemic trees, including bur oak, red oak and white, red and jack pine.

Best time to go
Visit Fish Trap Lake from mid-summer to early fall, when warm sunbeams dance on tranquil waters, inviting anglers to reel in trophy walleye. Experience the annual Fishing Festival in August, celebrating community spirit amidst nature's vibrant canvas.
Water Quality
Fish Trap Lake's water is a deep blue, exhibiting crystal-clear clarity.
Surface area (mi)
2.95
Max depth (ft)
41.99
Elevation (ft)
1276.25
Shoreline length (mi)
13.11

Popular activities

  • Boating
  • Kayaking
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
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Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Fish Trap Lake has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • No, swimming is not allowed in designated areas of Fishtrap Lake. You may swim at your own risk, but it is prohibited from boat ramps, courtesy docks, and around the intake structure.

  • Fish Trap Lake is a popular destination because of its 13.7 miles of shoreline and 1,163.81 acres of recreational area. The lake features many beautiful bays, islands, and points, and is home to bald eagles, loons, and various fish species like walleye, northern pike, and bass. Its diverse structure with steep shoreline breaks and sunken islands also attracts fishermen and nature enthusiasts.

  • For northern pike in Fish Trap Lake, Minnesota, the daily and possession limit is three, with no more than one pike over 40 inches in length. All pike between 24 and 36 inches must be immediately released. This rule ensures sustainable fishing practices in the lake.

  • There is a public access area at Fish Trap Lake with a boat launch. The launch is a double-wide concrete ramp located on the west shore, and it includes a loading dock and parking for 24 rigs.

  • Fish Trap Lake is near the towns of Motley, Minnesota, and also close to Cushing, Minnesota. It is also less than an hour from Brainerd, Minnesota, and other nearby towns include Nisswa and Pequot Lakes.