Rice Lake Fishing in Cass County, Minnesota

• Overview

  In Minnesota, Rice Lake belongs to Cass County. It stands 1,296 feet above sea level. Around 91 acres of surface means several distinct areas to work. The nearest town is Park Rapids, 29 miles away. Bemidji lies 31 miles off, Crosslake another 36 miles. What else is close: 0.9 miles away is Wabegon Lake, Deep Lake roughly 2.3 miles, 2.4 miles away is Gould Lake, Nomad Lake roughly 2.9 miles and 2.9 miles away is Turtle Lake. The nearest edge is a long way off, so local rules apply throughout.

• Where to Fish on Rice Lake

  No figure exists for depth, so let the water show you. The shallow end warms first and pulls fish in ahead of the rest. Bays and points beat straight shoreline every time on water like this. Fish documented in Cass County include largemouth bass, yellow perch and bluegill. Records at county level tell you what is around, not what is stocked here. Fish Rice Lake where the bottom changes rather than where it looks deep.

• Seasonal Patterns

  On the long-term average, July reads 68°F and January reads 6°F. Seasons are distinct, and each one fishes differently. The open season starts with the thaw, near enough mid April. On average, mid April opens the water and late November closes it again. Right after break-up, and again as the nights sharpen, is when to go. The season on Rice Lake rarely departs from it.

• Tackle & Baits

  There is no clear statement anywhere on who can fish it. Mapping shows a ramp about half a mile from the shore. A small crankbait along the drop and a worm in the thick stuff cover the bass. Look for a notice board at the entrance. Night access is frequently treated as a separate matter. Failing this one, try Wabegon Lake, 0.9 miles away. Treat access at Rice Lake as something to verify.