Fishing at Squareboat Lake, Becker County, Minnesota

• Overview

  Squareboat Lake belongs to Becker County, Minnesota. The country here is rolling bush. Small at around 12 acres: two anglers spread out cover most of it. It is a small entry by Becker County standards. 14 miles away sits Mahnomen, the nearest town. After that come Detroit Lakes at 25 miles and Fosston at 28 miles. The nearest edge is a long way off, so local rules apply throughout.

• Where to Fish on Squareboat Lake

  No figure exists for depth, so let the water show you. A soft bed grows weed late into autumn, which keeps fish shallow. On a natural lake the weed line and the shelf beyond it do the work. Species logged across Becker County include bluegill, largemouth bass and walleye. County records show what lives in the area; the local agency holds the water-by-water list. Treat Squareboat Lake as a water to read rather than to cover.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Long-term averages put July at about 68°F and January near 4°F. Winter closes the water for a while, and the reopening is worth catching. The open season starts with the thaw, near enough mid April. Ice usually gives way near mid April, and forms again about mid November. September and October fish steadily right up to the freeze. Keep it in mind when planning a trip to Squareboat Lake.

• Tackle & Baits

  Nothing on record says whether the bank is open or closed. No launch point is recorded nearby, so this is a bank water unless you carry a boat in. A small crankbait along the drop and a worm in the thick stuff cover the bass. Season dates differ by species, so read the table. Barbless rules turn up on managed water more often than not. Jack Lake at 0.5 miles is the sensible second choice. Rules at Squareboat Lake are worth checking on the day.