Our Lakes
The Enchanting Woman Lake Chain: A Minnesota Gem
Nestled in the heart of Cass County, Minnesota, lies a captivating chain of four interconnected lakes: Woman Lake, Girl Lake, Child Lake, and Little Woman Lake. This aquatic tapestry, just a stone's throw from the charming town of Longville, offers a quintessential Minnesota lake experience, drawing in anglers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking tranquil respite year-round.
A Chain of Opportunities
The Woman Lake Chain, as a whole, presents a remarkable array of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. The interconnectedness of the lakes allows for seamless exploration by boat, offering diverse fishing structures and shorelines. Anglers can spend a day navigating from the expansive waters of Woman Lake to the more sheltered bays of Girl Lake, targeting different species and enjoying varied scenery.
Beyond fishing, the clear waters invite swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and pontoon excursions. The surrounding forests provide a picturesque backdrop for hiking and wildlife observation. In the winter months, the frozen surfaces transform into ideal settings for ice fishing and snowmobiling.
Preserving a Precious Resource
The beauty and ecological health of the Woman Lake Chain are of paramount importance to the local community and visitors alike. Efforts are underway to protect water quality and prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species like rusty crayfish and zebra mussels, which have been identified in the lakes. Responsible lake stewardship, including proper boat cleaning and adherence to fishing regulations, is crucial to ensuring that this natural treasure can be enjoyed for generations to come.
The Woman Lake Chain in Minnesota is more than just a collection of lakes; it's a vibrant ecosystem and a cherished recreational destination. Each lake, with its unique characteristics, contributes to the overall allure of this interconnected waterway. Whether you seek thrilling fishing adventures, peaceful paddles, or simply the tranquility of a lakeside escape, the Woman Lake Chain offers an unforgettable experience in the heart of Minnesota's lake country.
Woman Lake: The Heart of the Chain
Spanning an impressive 5,520 acres, Woman Lake serves as the centerpiece of this watery network. Its name, steeped in local lore commemorating Ojibwe women, hints at the rich history woven into these waters. With a maximum depth of 54 feet and remarkable water clarity reaching over 14 feet, Woman Lake teems with a diverse fish population. It's renowned for its walleye, drawing anglers from across the state, but also boasts healthy populations of northern pike, yellow perch, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, and the elusive muskellunge among others. Three public accesses ensure that this expansive lake is readily available for all to enjoy.
The shores of Woman Lake are dotted with a variety of resorts, many with a long and storied history, offering comfortable accommodations and a gateway to the lake's many recreational opportunities. From classic knotty pine cabins to modern lake homes, visitors can find the perfect setting for a memorable getaway. Boating is a popular pastime, with ample space for pontoons and larger vessels to navigate its waters. The town of Longville, accessible by boat, adds a unique charm to the Woman Lake experience.
Girl Lake: Bays and Depth
Connected to Woman Lake by a navigable channel, Girl Lake offers a slightly more intimate experience with several small bays making up its area. Covering around 428 acres, it boasts impressive depths reaching up to 81 feet. This depth contributes to its excellent water clarity, typically more than 13 feet, making it another prime fishing destination within the chain. Anglers can expect to find walleye, northern pike, muskellunge, smallmouth bass, and perch in its waters.
The real estate around Girl Lake features beautiful lakeshore properties, cabins, and cottages, providing both seasonal and year-round residents with a tranquil lakeside lifestyle.
Child Lake: A Manageable Haven
Moving westward from Woman Lake via the Boy River, boaters will find themselves on the more compact Child Lake. Encompassing approximately 285 acres with a maximum depth of 29 feet, Child Lake presents a more manageable body of water for various recreational activities. While connected to the larger chain, it maintains its own distinct character.
Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for northern pike, bluegill, black crappie, and largemouth bass, Child Lake also supports populations of muskellunge, walleye, tullibee (cisco), and yellow perch. The DNR has implemented specific regulations, such as a protected slot for northern pike, to maintain a healthy fish population and enhance angling opportunities. A user-developed access on the south shore provides entry to this charming lake.
Little Woman Lake: A Tranquil Retreat
The smallest of the quartet, Little Woman Lake, spans just under 36 acres with a maximum depth of 14 feet. While smaller in size, it offers a unique sense of tranquility and is almost entirely littoral, meaning it is shallow enough for sunlight to reach the bottom, supporting abundant plant life.
According to DNR surveys, Little Woman Lake is home to various fish species, including walleye, northern pike, bluegill, pumpkinseed, rock bass, largemouth bass, and black crappie. Its smaller size and shallower depths might make it ideal for quieter pursuits like kayaking and canoeing, offering a more secluded experience within the larger chain.