North Long Lake Fishing Tips
Planning a fishing trip to North Long Lake? The lake is surrounded by several excellent Brainerd Lakes area resorts and cabin rentals, making it easy for anglers and families to enjoy a full Northwoods vacation while staying close to the water. North Long Lake is well known for its walleye, northern pike, bass, crappie, and sunfish fishing, and many nearby resorts offer boat rentals, docks, and direct lake access. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or a full fishing vacation, staying at a resort near North Long Lake provides convenient access to some of the best fishing opportunities in Central Minnesota, along with the relaxed atmosphere that makes the Brainerd Lakes region a premier destination for outdoor recreation.
Resorts Nearby
Train Bell Resort
Sullivan’s Resort & Campground
Hidden Paradise Resort
Nearby Lakes
Cullen Lake
Pelican Lake
Mission Lake
Round Lake
Whitefish Lake
Edward Lake
Gull LAKE
Hubert Lake
Species We Target
Walleye
Northern Pike
Largemouth Bass
Panfish
North Long Lake Fishery Summary
North Long Lake is a large Brainerd-area lake (~6,190 acres) with moderate water clarity and extensive shallow habitat—about 65% of the lake is 15 feet deep or less. These shallow sand flats and weed areas support a diverse fishery that includes walleye, northern pike, largemouth bass, crappie, and bluegill.
Walleyes are stocked heavily each year and are present in lower numbers compared to similar lakes, but the population provides good opportunities for eater-size fish, with about half of sampled walleyes over 14 inches. Northern pike occur in average numbers, with some fish over 35 inches, offering occasional trophy potential. Largemouth bass are abundant and provide consistent fishing, with quality fish approaching 19 inches.
The lake also supports a strong crappie population, with many fish 9–10 inches and some over 12 inches, making it a popular panfish destination. Bluegill numbers are average, and while most are smaller, some fish over 8–9 inches are present. To improve panfish size, a 5-fish daily limit on crappie and sunfish was implemented in 2021. Overall, North Long Lake offers anglers a balanced fishery with opportunities for walleyes, bass, pike, and quality panfish throughout the year.
Trophy North Long Lake Fish
We cover a large area in Central Minnesota, if you have any questions about a certain lake or a certain species of fish don’t hesitate to call. We are very accommodating and can come up with a plan to make any sort of trip work. If you need multiple boats we are also able to get more guides to handle larger group trips! Our goal is to make your fishing trip easy, comfortable, and full of fish catching excitement!