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

• Overview

  Little Carnelian Lake belongs to Washington County, Minnesota. It stands 846 feet above sea level. At about 76 acres, a day is enough to walk the shoreline properly. The full circuit measures close to 2.1 miles on foot. Ground here is low by Minnesota standards. Stillwater at 4.3 miles is the nearest place to stop. Grant is 6 miles and Oak Park Heights 6 miles. The county line runs close by, so rules can change within a short drive.

• Where to Fish on Little Carnelian Lake

  We hold no depth figure for this one. Look for the band where the shallows give up and the bottom falls away. Read the surface for the wind lane, then fish the edge of it. Reported across Washington County: bluegill, largemouth bass and brown trout. County records show the wider picture rather than this one place. On Little Carnelian Lake the obvious spot is not always the productive one.

• Seasonal Patterns

  On the long-term average, July reads 72°F and January reads 12°F. Seasons are distinct, and each one fishes differently. Count on hard cover from midwinter, and open water from early April. On the long-run averages the water opens up around early April and starts locking again about early December. September and October fish steadily right up to the freeze. Time your trip to Little Carnelian Lake by conditions rather than dates.

• Tackle & Baits

  Nothing on record says whether the bank is open or closed. Records list it as a natural water body rather than an impoundment. The nearest car park we can see is half a mile out, so expect a walk with your gear. A toilet block sits half a mile away. Check whether a boat is allowed before you tow one. Signs go up and come down, so check on the day. The nearest alternative is Big Carnelian Lake, 1.3 miles out. The position on Little Carnelian Lake is worth confirming on the day.