Ruth Lake near Crosslake: Fishing Spots, Seasons and Access

• Overview

  Minnesota holds Ruth Lake, in Crow Wing County. Height above sea level is 1,260 feet. About 597 acres, so local knowledge or a boat saves a lot of walking. With 4.8 miles or so of shoreline, boat anglers cover ground the bank cannot. Size puts it in the front rank of our Crow Wing County list. The town to know is Crosslake, 9.8 miles out. It is 127 miles to Minneapolis, the nearest city. The boundary is near enough that local access rules are worth double-checking.

• Where to Fish on Ruth Lake

  Sounding records show water to about 44 feet. Still water like this holds fish on the edges rather than out in the open. A soft bed grows weed late into autumn, which keeps fish shallow. Species logged across Crow Wing County include largemouth bass, bluegill, yellow perch, northern pike and pumpkinseed. The list covers the county rather than this water alone, so treat it as a guide. The near bank of Ruth Lake is often the one people ignore.

• Seasonal Patterns

  The range across the year is 7°F to 68°F. A full turn of seasons, with the strongest sport on either side of summer. The lid arrives early and lasts until roughly mid April. Ice clears near mid April and comes back about late November in a typical year. From the thaw to midsummer the fishing improves week by week. Keep it in mind when planning a trip to Ruth Lake.

• Tackle & Baits

  Nothing we hold confirms whether access is permitted. Records list it as a natural water body rather than an impoundment. Public data shows nothing built here, so treat the whole approach as informal. A small crankbait along the drop and a worm in the thick stuff cover the bass. Ask in the nearest town if you are unsure. Some water is controlled locally without a sign saying so. If the gate is shut, Andrews Lake at 1.4 miles is the nearest alternative. The position on Ruth Lake is worth confirming on the day.