Fishing West Lost Lake in Otter Tail County, Minnesota

• Overview

  West Lost Lake is listed under Otter Tail County, Minnesota. This is rolling bush country. At 571 acres this is proper open water rather than a pond. The perimeter runs near 11 miles, so plan the walk before you start. On our Otter Tail County list it sits near the top for size. For a base, Fergus Falls sits 12 miles out. Pelican Rapids lies 16 miles off, Perham another 21 miles. It lies deep inside the county rather than near an edge.

• Where to Fish on West Lost Lake

  We hold no survey for this water; read the slope of the shoreline instead. Where the bottom changes texture, fish gather; find that line. Look for the band where the shallows give up and the bottom falls away. Fish documented in Otter Tail County include largemouth bass, black crappie and walleye. Species recorded across the county may be limited to a few waters. The shape of West Lost Lake rewards a slow walk along one bank.

• Seasonal Patterns

  The year swings from about 6°F in January to roughly 70°F in July. Cold winters and warm summers give a wide working range. Ice is part of the season here, ending near mid April. Climate figures give an open season running mid April to late November. September and October fish steadily right up to the freeze. Time your trip to West Lost Lake by conditions rather than dates.

• Tackle & Baits

  Nothing on record says whether the bank is open or closed. This is a natural basin, not a dammed one. There is no mapped parking or launch close by, which usually means walking in. A small crankbait along the drop and a worm in the thick stuff cover the bass. Where access is informal, keep it that way by behaving. Some ground is open by custom rather than by right, so tread carefully. Failing this one, try Long Lake, 1.6 miles away. Confirm before you fish West Lost Lake.