Long Lake Fishing guide

Moderate numbers of Walleye were sampled with gill nets (4/net), near the expected catch rate of similar metro lakes. Average length of Walleye sampled in gill nets was 17.6 inches with the largest measured at 19.9 inches. Despite zero large (>20") Walleye measured, over 95% of Walleye caught were of quality size (>15"). Walleye growth in Long Lake was fast compared to similar lakes across the metro, indicated by an average length of 17.6 inches by age 4. A strong year class of Walleye (15-19") should provide excellent angling opportunity currently and into the future.

Low to moderate numbers of Northern Pike were sampled with gill nets (2.7/net), below the expected catch rate of similar metro lakes. There were 16 Northern Pike sampled in gill nets during the 2023 survey, with an average size of 26 inches and the largest measured at 35.9 inches. Low numbers of Northern Pike likely reduced competition among other individuals. This decrease in competition likely improved growth; with Northern Pike growing to 20.5 inches by age 3 and 26.3 inches by age 5. Although Northern Pike are not as plentiful in Long Lake compared to other metro lakes, their average and maximum size would rival some of the best opportunities found in the area.

High numbers of Largemouth Bass were sampled during spring 2023 with nighttime boat electrofishing (107.3 fish/hour). There were 161 bass sampled, with an average length of 12.9 inches and the largest measured at 19.9 inches. The current population appears well balanced (a middle ground between high numbers of small fish and few numbers of large fish). Despite high numbers, multiple fish were sampled greater than 18 inches, demonstrating the potential for these fish to reach desirable sizes. While small bass may be numerous, the opportunity to catch large (>18") fish in Long Lake remains high.

High numbers of Bluegill were sampled with trap nets (65.4/net) above the expected catch rate of similar metro lakes. There were 589 Bluegill sampled in trap nets during the 2023 survey, with an average length of 5.9 inches, and the largest measured at 8.1 inches. Less than 1% of the total Bluegill sampled were greater than 8 inches. Although Bluegill are abundant, relatively few large fish can be found.

Moderate to high numbers of Black Crappie were sampled with gill nets (8.3/net) and trap nets (16.9/net) above the expected catch rate of similar metro lakes. The Black Crappie population remains stable, with little variation in historic catch rates over the previous 30 years. There were 202 Black Crappie sampled during the 2023 survey, with an average length of 7.5 inches, and the largest measured at 10.5 inches. Despite the high number of small crappie, the presence of fish greater than 10 inches is an encouraging sign for the fishery.

Other fish species sampled in low abundance were Black Bullhead, Bowfin, Common Carp, Green Sunfish, Pumpkinseed, Yellow Bullhead, and Yellow Perch.

Eurasian Watermilfoil, a submersed invasive aquatic plant has been found in Long Lake and remains present. Eurasian watermilfoil can limit recreational activities on water bodies by forming mats on the water surface and alter aquatic ecosystems by displacing native plants. The most important action that you can take to limit the spread of milfoil and other aquatic invasive plants is to remove all vegetation from your watercraft before you move it from one body of water to another.