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Benson area


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I was looking to take my Dad ice fishing for the first time next weekend. He lives in Benson and I'm not too familiar with the surrounding lakes. Besides the DNR website, what lakes in the area would be a good place to take him. Does anyone know of any surrounding lakes that are popular. (what depths) Thanks in advance.

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deputydan, I'm not too familiar with the immediate area around Benson. I did go to UMM many years ago. I'd guess you'd get your best chances for many species of fish North of you on Lake Minnewaska. The other choice would be to head to the New London area North of Willmar. I know there are a few smaller lakes around Appleton and Hancock but I never fished them in the winter, only the summer time. I alway's loved going to Glacial Lakes State Park (South of Starbuck) fishing for big sunnies in the spring time. Hope this helps some.

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DeputyDan,

Camp Lake by Swift Falls (crappies & Sunfish) is one option. Lake Oliver or Lake Artichoke (Both north of Appleton) have produced some good fishing earlier this year. There is also Gilchrist, Scandinavian, and Linka in SE Pope County. I haven't heard much on those this year. Otherwise Minnewaska (either at the Starbuck end or the Glenwood end) or Lake Reno (near Alexandria) are both pretty popular lakes. We had around 1' of snow the past couple days, so it has become a little more difficult driving around on the lakes, and they are talking more snow for the end of the week.
Hope this helps.

Regards,

Scott Lee

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What species are you looking for? I am from Benson and fish all of the lakes regularly. Fishings been slower as of late but there is still some fish biting.

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Try the pond east of Sunburg for some sunnie and crappie action. Things are pretty slow in the area as of late though.

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Hey loose goose. Is this pond land locked. How deep is it and how can i get there. How big are the sunnies and crappies and what depths do you fish in. Thanks Mike

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