Location:
Spring Lake is a portion of Pool 2 of the Mississippi River located 3 river miles upstream of the dam at Hastings.
Species Present:
Walleye: average abundance, average size, with larger individuals present.
Northern Pike: below average abundance, above average size.
Smallmouth Bass: below average abundance, smaller than average size.
Bluegill: below average abundance, above average size.
Crappie: below average abundance, above average size.
Channel Catfish: above average abundance, all sizes present.
Flathead Catfish: average abundance, all sizes present.
Boat Access:
The DNR owned access to Spring Lake is located north of Co. Rd 42 on Hillary Path - a road minimally maintained. Travel at your own risk. The access is small and the lake is very shallow with an abundance of snags. This area is not suitable for larger boats.
Shore Fishing:
Some of the lake's shoreline lies within Spring lake Regional Park operated by Dakota County. Unfortunately, most of the park is undeveloped and the shoreline is inaccessible to anglers.
Bank anglers do fish from the vicinity of the boat access.
Special Regulation:
There is a special regulation in effect on Spring Lake. All Walleye, Sauger, Largemouth Bass and Smallmouth Bass caught must be returned to the water immediately. Fishing season is open year around for those species.
Management Plans:
- Monitor status of tagged Catfish
- Monitor area for presence of Bighead Carp and Silver Carp.
Aquatic Invasive Species Alert:
This lake contains Eurasian watermilfoil and zebra mussels. Remove any visible plant material from your boat, trailer, and other boating equipment before leaving the lake. Drain water from the motor, livewell, bilge and transom wells before leaving the lake.
Comments:
This lake receives little fishing pressure despite having some nice fish to be caught. The limited access, shallow water and abundance of snags make travel on this lake difficult.
This lake offers additional items of interest to outdoor enthusiasts. Uncommon creatures such as bald eagles, osprey, white pelicans and red shouldered hawks are often observed in the area. Fishing can be good, especially in the spring and fall. Fall anglers should be aware this is a popular duck hunting area and take appropriate precautions.