Big Carnelian Lake in Washington County: How and When to Fish It

• Overview

  Washington County in Minnesota is where Big Carnelian Lake sits. This is rolling bush ground. About 458 acres, so local knowledge or a boat saves a lot of walking. Around 4.4 miles of bank, which is a long day on foot. Few waters listed in Washington County are bigger. The closest town, Stillwater, is 5.5 miles away. Then Grant, 6.1 miles, and Somerset, 6.6 miles. The boundary is near enough that local access rules are worth double-checking.

• Where to Fish on Big Carnelian Lake

  Published depth figures reach 75 feet at the lowest point. A natural lake fishes on cover, and cover here means weed and timber. Weed, then depth: that is the order to fish a water of this kind. Survey and observation records for Washington County include bluegill, largemouth bass, brown trout, northern pike and black crappie. Records at county level tell you what is around, not what is stocked here. The shape of Big Carnelian Lake rewards a slow walk along one bank.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Typical July readings run about 72°F; by January the average is down near 12°F. The season turns properly here, and fish follow it closely. Count on hard cover from midwinter, and open water from early April. Averages suggest open water from about early April through to roughly early December. The first weeks of open water and the last are the ones to plan for. It sets the rhythm of the year at Big Carnelian Lake.

• Tackle & Baits

  Whether you may fish here is not something records settle. Records list it as a natural water body rather than an impoundment. Public data records a boat ramp half a mile out. Expect a half a mile walk in from where the car goes. Sort the permit out before you load the car. Keep proof of licence with you rather than in the car. Twin Lakes at 1.1 miles is the sensible second choice. For Big Carnelian Lake in particular, ask before you travel.