Lower South Long Lake, Brainerd, MN

[Joel B.]

Yes, it's me again looking for lake information. Interested in fishing (bass, northern, and walleye), and water clarity/quality information. How is the lake for swimming? I have checked out the DNR report but wanted some personal information. There seems to be a lot of bullheads in the lake, is this something I should be concerned about?

Thanks to all for any information,

Joel B.

[Scott F.]

Joel,

My parents have had a cabin on LSL for about 20 years. Good clean lake. Walleye fishing is best early and late season. Northerns run small. The bass fishing is fabulous -- check out the rice on the north shore or the hump/bar in the SW part of the lake.

Good luck,

Scott F. #99

[NC]

Scott,
I am staying on Upper South Long Lake from May 17th-24th. Do you have any info on this lake? I've heard walleyes are on and off. If they are on, then it is supposed to be a great lake. I've also heard bass fishing is great. Not as many northern as other lakes, but bigger than average???
I'm staying at Noka Sippi by the way.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
NC

[Scott F.]

Yes the walleye fishing can be on or off. You will be there at the right time of the year. Try the narrows between the main lake and the small bay on the SW corner (at dusk). Also, pulling bottom bouncers and spinners over the emerging weeds in 8-14 can be good most places around the lake. At night trolling cranks near the mouth of the river on the east end can be good at that time. You'll see the other boats. No secret.

The bass fishing is very good (but I don't know if it is open 17-24). Northerns you will pick up as you go. If someone told you about larger northerns follow their lead. I haven't targeted them much. There is also a pretty good panfish population if you've got kids you should give that a shot.

[Joel B.]

Thanks for the information, Scott, just what I was looking for. Can you get from Upper South Long Lake to Lower South Long Lake by boat? If so, with what size boat? Would a 17' Crestliner Sportfish make it?

Thanks,

Joel B.

[NC]

I really appreciate your help. Fished this lake 5 years ago, but only for 2 days. Not much luck. If you have any other advice on this lake or ideas on where to find info, would you mind emailing me?
Thanks,
NC
ncavanaugh992@msn.com

[Scott F.]

I never tried, but I think you'd be better off to pull the boat and launch again. The two launches aren't more than 1/4 mile apart. Never did fish Upper very much.

Scott F. #99

[NC]

Anyone else have thoughts on Upper South Long Lake near Brainerd? I'm going from May 17-24th and would appreciate any info. Enjoy catching Bass, Walleye and Northern mostly.
Thanks,
NC