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MN Fish Finder

Arvilla

Meeker County
Near Kingston
DOW: 47002300
Northern PikeExcellent · 89Largemouth BassGood · 65Black CrappieGood · 59

A 138-acre lake near Kingston in Meeker County — best known for pike and bass. Last surveyed 2018.

Fish Species (18)

Northern Pike

Excellent · 89

Above-normal numbers · large fish

Gill-net survey · surveyed Jul 2018

Last surveyed 2018 — treat with caution

Avg Size
23.5"
Avg Weight
2.82 lbs

Catch rate: 13.5 per gill net · typical 1.1–8 for a lake like this

Size of catchable northern pike50% keeper-size (24"+)
14–23" · 50%Largest sampled 37"
Survey History
DateCatch RateAvg LengthAvg Weight
Jul 9, 201813.5023.5"2.82 lbs
Jul 9, 20184.3323.5"3.89 lbs
Jul 9, 201813.5023.5"2.82 lbs

Largemouth Bass

Good · 65

Below-normal numbers · large fish

Electrofishing survey · surveyed Jun 2009

Last surveyed 2009 — treat with caution

Avg Size
8.7"
Avg Weight
0.53 lbs

Catch rate: 13.6 · Electrofishing survey

Size of catchable largemouth bass100% keeper-size (12"+)
All keeper-sizeLargest sampled 15"

Size from the Jul 2018 survey

Survey History
DateCatch RateAvg LengthAvg Weight
Jul 9, 20180.2214.7"1.84 lbs
Jul 9, 20180.1714.7"1.83 lbs
Jul 9, 20180.1714.7"1.83 lbs

Black Crappie

Good · 59

Typical numbers · average-size fish

Trap-net survey · surveyed Jul 2018

Last surveyed 2018 — treat with caution

Avg Size
7.1"
Avg Weight
0.34 lbs

Catch rate: 11.3 per trap net · typical 1.2–20.5 for a lake like this

Size of catchable black crappie20% keeper-size (10"+)
5–9" · 80%Largest sampled 11"
Survey History
DateCatch RateAvg LengthAvg Weight
Jul 9, 201811.337.1"0.34 lbs
Jul 9, 20187.337.1"0.14 lbs
Jul 9, 20187.337.1"0.14 lbs

White Crappie

Good · 58

Typical numbers · average-size fish

Gill-net survey · surveyed Jun 2009

Last surveyed 2009 — treat with caution

Avg Size
6.2"
Avg Weight
0.07 lbs

Catch rate: 8.0 per gill net · typical 0.5–8.4 for a lake like this

Size of catchable white crappie12% keeper-size (10"+)
5–9" · 88%Largest sampled 13"
Survey History
DateCatch RateAvg LengthAvg Weight
Jun 29, 20096.226.2"0.29 lbs
Jun 29, 20098.006.2"0.07 lbs
Jun 29, 20098.006.2"0.07 lbs

Green Sunfish

Good · 58

Above-normal numbers · average-size fish

Trap-net survey · surveyed Jul 1989

Last surveyed 1989 — treat with caution

Avg Weight
0.10 lbs

Catch rate: 2.0 per trap net · typical 0.2–1.9 for a lake like this

Survey History
DateCatch RateAvg LengthAvg Weight
Jul 5, 19890.17-0.10 lbs
Jul 5, 19892.00-0.10 lbs
Jul 5, 19890.17-0.10 lbs

Walleye

Good · 53

Below-normal numbers · large fish

Gill-net survey · surveyed Jul 2018

Last surveyed 2018 — treat with caution

Avg Size
19.6"
Avg Weight
2.38 lbs

Catch rate: 1.3 per gill net · typical 2.3–18.1 for a lake like this

Size of catchable walleye100% keeper-size (15"+)
All keeper-sizeLargest sampled 26"
Survey History
DateCatch RateAvg LengthAvg Weight
Jul 9, 20180.3319.6"4.35 lbs
Jul 9, 20181.3319.6"2.38 lbs
Jul 9, 20181.3319.6"2.38 lbs

Channel Catfish

Average · 49

Typical numbers

Gill-net survey · surveyed Jul 2018

Last surveyed 2018 — treat with caution

Avg Size
16.9"
Avg Weight
2.00 lbs

Catch rate: 0.83 per gill net

Survey History
DateCatch RateAvg LengthAvg Weight
Jul 9, 20180.4416.9"2.54 lbs
Jul 9, 20180.8316.9"2.00 lbs
Jul 9, 20180.4416.9"2.54 lbs

Bluegill

Average · 41

Above-normal numbers · small fish

Trap-net survey · surveyed Jul 2018

Last surveyed 2018 — treat with caution

Avg Size
5.6"
Avg Weight
0.14 lbs

Catch rate: 27.9 per trap net · typical 1.2–20 for a lake like this

Size of catchable bluegill1% keeper-size (8"+)
3–7" · 99%Largest sampled 8"
Survey History
DateCatch RateAvg LengthAvg Weight
Jul 9, 201827.895.6"0.14 lbs
Jul 9, 201827.005.6"0.13 lbs
Jul 9, 201827.005.6"0.13 lbs

Pumpkinseed

Average · 34

Below-normal numbers · average-size fish

Trap-net survey · surveyed Jul 2004

Last surveyed 2004 — treat with caution

Avg Size
5.0"
Avg Weight
0.14 lbs

Catch rate: 0.11 per trap net · typical 0.3–4.9 for a lake like this

Survey History
DateCatch RateAvg LengthAvg Weight
Jul 12, 20040.115.0"0.14 lbs
Jul 12, 20040.115.0"0.14 lbs
Jun 29, 19840.25-0.17 lbs

Hybrid Sunfish

Poor · 12

Below-normal numbers

Trap-net survey · surveyed Jul 2018

Last surveyed 2018 — treat with caution

Avg Size
6.0"
Avg Weight
0.24 lbs

Catch rate: 0.11 per trap net

Survey History
DateCatch RateAvg LengthAvg Weight
Jul 9, 20180.116.0"0.24 lbs
Jul 9, 20180.116.0"0.24 lbs
Jun 29, 20090.335.3"0.19 lbs

Yellow Perch

Poor · 3

Below-normal numbers · small fish

Gill-net survey · surveyed Jul 2018

Last surveyed 2018 — treat with caution

Avg Size
6.3"
Avg Weight
0.05 lbs

Catch rate: 0.33 per gill net · typical 2.7–25 for a lake like this

Size of catchable yellow perch0% keeper-size (9"+)
5–8" · 100%Largest sampled 8"
Survey History
DateCatch RateAvg LengthAvg Weight
Jul 9, 20180.336.3"0.05 lbs
Jul 9, 20180.566.3"0.17 lbs
Jul 9, 20180.336.3"0.05 lbs
Other species in this lake (7)

Rough fish, bullheads, and baitfish recorded in DNR surveys — present in the lake, but not typical angling targets.

Yellow Bullhead

Excellent · 81

Above-normal numbers · average-size fish

Trap-net survey · surveyed Jul 2018

Last surveyed 2018 — treat with caution

Avg Size
9.5"
Avg Weight
0.55 lbs

Catch rate: 5.4 per trap net · typical 0.5–2.5 for a lake like this

Survey History
DateCatch RateAvg LengthAvg Weight
Jul 9, 20180.339.5"0.86 lbs
Jul 9, 20185.449.5"0.55 lbs
Jul 9, 20185.449.5"0.55 lbs

Golden Shiner

Good · 59

Above-normal numbers · small fish

Gill-net survey · surveyed Jul 2018

Last surveyed 2018 — treat with caution

Avg Size
5.9"
Avg Weight
0.07 lbs

Catch rate: 3.0 per gill net · typical 0.5–2.6 for a lake like this

Survey History
DateCatch RateAvg LengthAvg Weight
Jul 9, 20183.005.9"0.07 lbs
Jul 9, 20183.005.9"0.07 lbs
Jun 29, 20090.175.3"0.06 lbs

White Sucker

Good · 56

Typical numbers · large fish

Gill-net survey · surveyed Jul 2018

Last surveyed 2018 — treat with caution

Avg Size
16.0"
Avg Weight
1.87 lbs

Catch rate: 1.8 per gill net · typical 0.8–6.5 for a lake like this

Survey History
DateCatch RateAvg LengthAvg Weight
Jul 9, 20181.2216.0"1.91 lbs
Jul 9, 20181.8316.0"1.87 lbs
Jul 9, 20181.8316.0"1.87 lbs

Brown Bullhead

Good · 56

Typical numbers · large fish

Trap-net survey · surveyed Jul 2018

Last surveyed 2018 — treat with caution

Avg Size
10.8"
Avg Weight
0.77 lbs

Catch rate: 0.44 per trap net · typical 0.4–4.5 for a lake like this

Survey History
DateCatch RateAvg LengthAvg Weight
Jul 9, 20180.4410.8"0.77 lbs
Jul 9, 20180.4410.8"0.77 lbs

Shorthead Redhorse

Good · 50

Large fish

Trap-net survey · surveyed Jul 2018

Last surveyed 2018 — treat with caution

Avg Size
21.5"
Avg Weight
4.26 lbs

Catch rate: 0.22 per trap net · typical 0.4–4.6 for a lake like this

Survey History
DateCatch RateAvg LengthAvg Weight
Jul 9, 20180.2221.5"4.26 lbs
Jul 9, 20180.2221.5"4.26 lbs
Jun 29, 20090.2217.0"1.85 lbs

Common Carp

Average · 47

Below-normal numbers · large fish

Gill-net survey · surveyed Jul 2018

Last surveyed 2018 — treat with caution

Avg Size
21.1"
Avg Weight
11.47 lbs

Catch rate: 0.33 per gill net · typical 1–13.8 for a lake like this

Survey History
DateCatch RateAvg LengthAvg Weight
Jul 9, 20185.0021.1"5.13 lbs
Jul 9, 20180.3321.1"11.47 lbs
Jul 9, 20185.0021.1"5.13 lbs

Black Bullhead

Average · 43

Below-normal numbers · large fish

Trap-net survey · surveyed Jul 2018

Last surveyed 2018 — treat with caution

Avg Size
9.4"
Avg Weight
0.60 lbs

Catch rate: 3.2 per trap net · typical 11.5–132.6 for a lake like this

Survey History
DateCatch RateAvg LengthAvg Weight
Jul 9, 201832.009.4"0.51 lbs
Jul 9, 20183.229.4"0.60 lbs
Jul 9, 201832.009.4"0.51 lbs

Biologist Notes

July 9, 2018A standard survey was conducted at Arvilla Lake beginning on 7/09/18 to monitor the lake's fish population and evaluate the Walleye fry stocking regim…

A standard survey was conducted at Arvilla Lake beginning on 7/09/18 to monitor the lake's fish population and evaluate the Walleye fry stocking regime. Arvilla is a class 43 lake and net catches were compared to similar lakes around the state. The 2014 lake management plan (LMP) lists Black Crappie, Northern Pike, and Walleye as primary management species, while Bluegill and White Crappie were ranked as secondary species at Arvilla. In 2018, a total of 16 species, plus Hybrid Sunfish, were sampled in the gill nets (GN) and trap nets (TN). The dissolved oxygen concentration fell below 2.0 mg/l at 9 feet. The maximum depth recorded for this survey was 10.0 feet. Water clarity was poor with a secchi disk reading of 1.8 feet, due to an algae bloom. Arvilla has a long history of experiencing partial winterkills with the latest events occurring in 2001, 2008, 2010, 2011, 2013, and 2014. In the past, development of a stable fishery was not possible due to winterkill frequency but this could be changing as winterkill frequency and winter severity diminish. Fish presently have had four years to grow in the absence of winterkill and anecdotal reports indicated good fishing for Bluegill, Black Crappie, Northern Pike, and Yellow Perch in that timespan. Fish that survived the 2014 partial winterkill likely grew fast and reached a large size quickly due to reduced competition. Frequency and severity of winterkill can greatly influence fish abundance at Arvilla Lake. Only Walleye were stocked following the 2014 winterkill as other species had the opportunity to repopulate via immigration from the river or from spawning events from surviving broodstock. Curlyleaf pondweed, a non-native invasive aquatic plant, can be abundant (forming surface mats) in May and June at Arvilla Lake. Anglers should be extra careful to drain all the water from their boats when leaving Arvilla Lake because upstream Washington Lake has been designated as being infested with the zebra mussel, an aquatic invasive species. Gill nets (GN) sampled low numbers of Walleye (8) for a catch rate of 1.3/net, which was below the normal range for this lake type. The 2014 LMP's long range goal for Walleye (>2.3/GN) was not met. The 2009 catch rate was moderate (6.0/net), and was the only historical catch rate that was within the lake's normal range. Catch rates from 1977 to 2018 (n=8), under various stocking regimes, were mostly low ranging from 0.0 to 6.0/net with an average of 1.3. In 2018, gill netted Walleye were 16.1 to 22.2 inches long with an average of 19.0. Trap nets sampled Walleye up to 26.3 inches in length. Gill netted Walleye were estimated to be age-2 to age-5 with four year classes present. All year classes were considered to be weak. Walleye growth was fast. In 2018, non-stocked year classes (2015) accounted for 38% of the GN aged walleye. The contribution from natural reproduction during fry stocked years (2013, 2014, and 2016) was unknown. Connections to Washington Creek, the North Fork of the Crow River, and winterkill confounds Walleye stocking evaluation efforts. The low catch rate in 2018 indicated that there was not a significant contribution to Arvilla's Walleye population from Washington Creek. The latest fry stocking regime (138,000 every other year) began in 2007. The regime was immediately restarted following winterkills in 2010 and 2014. Gill net catch rates from 2009 to 2018 (n=2) ranged from 1.3 to 6.0/net with an average of 3.7, indicating an inexpensive and moderately successful stocking strategy. The previous stocking regime (69,000 fry two of three years, initiated in 1998) produced a catch rate of 1.8/net in 2004. Gill nets sampled high numbers of Northern Pike (81) for a catch rate of 13.5/net, which was above the lake's normal range and the second highest ever recorded at Arvilla. The 2014 LMP's long range goal (> 1.1/net) was met. The 2009 catch rate was 6.0/net. Gill net catch rates from 1977 to 2018 (n=8) were highly variable, ranging from 0.0 to 16.0/net with an average of 6.4. Historically, Northern Pike recruitment would be classified as variable likely due to the lakes winterkill frequency. In 2018, gill netted Northern Pike were 16.3 to 34.7 inches long with an average of 23.2. Trap nets sampled Northern Pike up to 38.0 inches in length, indicating that memorable sized fish were present. Northern Pike have never been stocked into Arvilla Lake and natural reproduction has provided a sufficient fishery for many years. Northern Pike were not aged, but size distribution data indicated that multiple year classes were present. New Northern Pike zone regulations went into effect in the spring of 2018. Arvilla is in the north central regulation zone which has a 10 fish bag limit, where all fish from 22 to 26 inches in length have to be immediately released and only two harvested fish could be over 26 inches long. Spearers are allowed to have one fish in the protected slot limit. The regulation was designed to improve the size structure in lakes across the state with "stunted" Northern Pike populations. Arvilla was occasionally clear enough for spearing in recent years but most years it was too turbid. High numbers of Northern Pike (>6/GN) could be having negative effects on Walleye stocking efforts at Arvilla Lake. Trap nets sampled moderate numbers (102) of Black Crappie in 2018 for a catch rate of 11.3/net, which was within the normal range for this type of lake. The 2014 LMP's long range goal (>1.2/TN) was met. The 2009 TN catch rate was similar at 13.1/net. Catch rates from 1977 to 2018 (n=8) were variable, ranging from 0.0 to 37.8/net with an average of 13.5. In 2018, trap netted Black Crappie were 2.4 to 11.8 inches long with an average of 8.2. Approximately 25% of the TN catch was 10 inches or longer, indicating some quality fish are available. Gill nets sampled moderate numbers of Black Crappie (44) for a catch rate of 7.3/net, which was within the normal range for this type of lake. The 2009 GN catch rate was 23.5/net. Catch rates from 1977 to 2018 (n=8) were variable, ranging from 0.0 to 23.5/net with an average of 6.7. In 2018, gill netted Black Crappie were 4.1 to 9.9 inches long with an average of 6.3. Black Crappie were not aged, but size distributions indicated that multiple year classes were present. Higher catch rates for Black Crappie during the last two surveys could be having negative impacts on Walleye fry stocking efforts at Arvilla Lake. Trap nets and gill nets failed to sample any White Crappie in 2018. The 2014 LMP's long range goal for White Crappie (maintain presence) was not met. The 2009 TN catch rate was 6.2/net. Historical TN catch rates from 1977 to 2018 (n=8) ranged from 0.0 to 7.2/net with an average of 2.4. The 2009 GN catch rate was 8.0/net. Historic GN catch rates from 1977 to 2018 (n=8) ranged from 0.0 to 8.0/net with an average of 1.2. Historic catch data indicated that White Crappie were rarely abundant at Arvilla Lake. Trap nets sampled high numbers of Bluegill (251) for a catch rate of 27.9/net, which was above the lake's normal range and the second highest ever recorded at Arvilla. The 2014 LMP's long range goal for Bluegill (maintain presence) was met. The 2009 catch rate was 12.0/net. Catch rates from 1977 to 2018 (n=8) were variable, ranging from 0.0 to 56.3/net, with an average of 18.2. In 2018, trap netted Bluegill were 3.4 to 8.5 inches long with an average of 6.1. Approximately 14% of the trap net catch was 7 inches or longer, indicating a decent population. Gill nets sampled high numbers (162) of Bluegill for a catch rate of 27.0/net with fish averaging 6.0 inches in length. Bluegill were not aged, but size distributions indicated that multiple year classes were present. Spring night-time electrofishing, the preferred method for measuring Largemouth Bass abundance, was not conducted in 2018. Gill nets sampled 1 Largemouth Bass for a catch rate of 0.2/net and that fish was 15.0 inches long. Trap nets sampled 2 Largemouth Bass for a catch rate of 0.2/net. Trap netted Largemouth Bass were 15.0 to 15.1 inches in length. Net catches indicated that Largemouth Bass were present, but not overly abundant. Gill nets sampled low numbers of Channel Catfish (5) for a catch rate of 0.8/net. The 2009 catch rate was also low (0.8/net). Historic catch rates from 1977 to 2018 (n=8) were all low, ranging from 0.0 to 2.4/net with an average of 0.5. In 2018, GN Channel Catfish were 10.2 to 23.3 inches long with an average of 15.6. Trap nets sampled 4 Channel Catfish that were 17.4 to 21.4 inches long. Channel Catfish were not aged. These fish likely immigrated into Arvilla via Washington Creek and came from the North Fork of the Crow River. Gill nets sampled low numbers of Yellow Perch (2) for a catch rate of 0.3/net, which was below the lake's normal range. The 2009 catch rate was similar (0.2/net). Catch rates from 1977 to 2018 (n=8) were mostly low, ranging from 0.0 to 10.2/net with an average of 1.6. Yellow Perch have not been sampled in high numbers since 1984 (10.5/net). The one measured Yellow Perch, from the GN, was 6.1 inches long. Trap nets also captured low numbers (5) of Yellow Perch, ranging in length from 5.1 to 9.0 inches. Yellow Perch were not aged. Trap nets sampled high numbers of Common Carp (45) for a catch rate of 5.0/net, which was within the normal range for this type of lake. Historic catch rates (n=8) from 1977 to 2018 were variable, ranging from 0.0 to 24.8/net with an average of 5.5. Trap netted Common Carp were 15.0 to 33.1 inches long with an average of 21.4. Gill nets sampled low numbers of Common Carp (2) for a catch rate of 0.3/net, which was below the lake's normal range. Historic GN catch rates (n=8) were variable, ranging from 0.0 to 6.2/net with an average of 2.9. Gill netted Common Carp were 25.2 to 32.7 inches long with an average of 28.9. Size distribution data indicated that multiple year classes were present. High numbers of Common Carp over the last 60 years have likely had significant negative impacts on submergent plant abundance and water quality in Arvilla Lake. Common Carp are difficult to control due to the highly connected watershed along Washington Creek and the North Fork of the Crow River. Gill nets sampled moderate numbers (192) of Black Bullhead for a catch rate of 32.0/net, which was just above the lake's normal range. The 2009 catch rate was 6.3/net. Historic GN catch rates from 1977 to 2018 (n=8) were mostly high, ranging from 6.3 to 907.0/net with an average of 245.3, as might be expected in a lake that winterkills frequently. Gill netted Black Bullhead were 6.0 to 12.4 inches long with an average of 9.9. Trap nets sampled low numbers (29) of Black Bullhead for a catch rate of 3.2/net which was below the lake's normal range. Trap netted Black Bullhead were 6.1 to 11.6 inches long with an average of 10.2. Additional species sampled in the standard gear included; Bigmouth Buffalo, Bowfin, Brown Bullhead, Golden Shiner, Shorthead Redhorse, White Sucker, and Yellow Bullhead. Presence of Bigmouth Buffalo and Shorthead Redhorse indicated that there was a good connection between Arvilla and the North Fork of the Crow River.

July 9, 2018A standard survey was conducted at Arvilla Lake beginning on 7/09/18 to monitor the lake's fish population and evaluate the Walleye fry stocking regim…

A standard survey was conducted at Arvilla Lake beginning on 7/09/18 to monitor the lake's fish population and evaluate the Walleye fry stocking regime. Arvilla is a class 43 lake and net catches were compared to similar lakes around the state. The 2014 lake management plan (LMP) lists Black Crappie, Northern Pike, and Walleye as primary management species, while Bluegill and White Crappie were ranked as secondary species at Arvilla. In 2018, a total of 16 species, plus Hybrid Sunfish, were sampled in the gill nets (GN) and trap nets (TN). The dissolved oxygen concentration fell below 2.0 mg/l at 9 feet. The maximum depth recorded for this survey was 10.0 feet. Water clarity was poor with a secchi disk reading of 1.8 feet, due to an algae bloom. Arvilla has a long history of experiencing partial winterkills with the latest events occurring in 2001, 2008, 2010, 2011, 2013, and 2014. In the past, development of a stable fishery was not possible due to winterkill frequency but this could be changing as winterkill frequency and winter severity diminish. Fish presently have had four years to grow in the absence of winterkill and anecdotal reports indicated good fishing for Bluegill, Black Crappie, Northern Pike, and Yellow Perch in that timespan. Fish that survived the 2014 partial winterkill likely grew fast and reached a large size quickly due to reduced competition. Frequency and severity of winterkill can greatly influence fish abundance at Arvilla Lake. Only Walleye were stocked following the 2014 winterkill as other species had the opportunity to repopulate via immigration from the river or from spawning events from surviving broodstock. Curlyleaf pondweed, a non-native invasive aquatic plant, can be abundant (forming surface mats) in May and June at Arvilla Lake. Anglers should be extra careful to drain all the water from their boats when leaving Arvilla Lake because upstream Washington Lake has been designated as being infested with the zebra mussel, an aquatic invasive species. Gill nets (GN) sampled low numbers of Walleye (8) for a catch rate of 1.3/net, which was below the normal range for this lake type. The 2014 LMP's long range goal for Walleye (>2.3/GN) was not met. The 2009 catch rate was moderate (6.0/net), and was the only historical catch rate that was within the lake's normal range. Catch rates from 1977 to 2018 (n=8), under various stocking regimes, were mostly low ranging from 0.0 to 6.0/net with an average of 1.3. In 2018, gill netted Walleye were 16.1 to 22.2 inches long with an average of 19.0. Trap nets sampled Walleye up to 26.3 inches in length. Gill netted Walleye were estimated to be age-2 to age-5 with four year classes present. All year classes were considered to be weak. Walleye growth was fast. In 2018, non-stocked year classes (2015) accounted for 38% of the GN aged walleye. The contribution from natural reproduction during fry stocked years (2013, 2014, and 2016) was unknown. Connections to Washington Creek, the North Fork of the Crow River, and winterkill confounds Walleye stocking evaluation efforts. The low catch rate in 2018 indicated that there was not a significant contribution to Arvilla's Walleye population from Washington Creek. The latest fry stocking regime (138,000 every other year) began in 2007. The regime was immediately restarted following winterkills in 2010 and 2014. Gill net catch rates from 2009 to 2018 (n=2) ranged from 1.3 to 6.0/net with an average of 3.7, indicating an inexpensive and moderately successful stocking strategy. The previous stocking regime (69,000 fry two of three years, initiated in 1998) produced a catch rate of 1.8/net in 2004. Gill nets sampled high numbers of Northern Pike (81) for a catch rate of 13.5/net, which was above the lake's normal range and the second highest ever recorded at Arvilla. The 2014 LMP's long range goal (> 1.1/net) was met. The 2009 catch rate was 6.0/net. Gill net catch rates from 1977 to 2018 (n=8) were highly variable, ranging from 0.0 to 16.0/net with an average of 6.4. Historically, Northern Pike recruitment would be classified as variable likely due to the lakes winterkill frequency. In 2018, gill netted Northern Pike were 16.3 to 34.7 inches long with an average of 23.2. Trap nets sampled Northern Pike up to 38.0 inches in length, indicating that memorable sized fish were present. Northern Pike have never been stocked into Arvilla Lake and natural reproduction has provided a sufficient fishery for many years. Northern Pike were not aged, but size distribution data indicated that multiple year classes were present. New Northern Pike zone regulations went into effect in the spring of 2018. Arvilla is in the north central regulation zone which has a 10 fish bag limit, where all fish from 22 to 26 inches in length have to be immediately released and only two harvested fish could be over 26 inches long. Spearers are allowed to have one fish in the protected slot limit. The regulation was designed to improve the size structure in lakes across the state with "stunted" Northern Pike populations. Arvilla was occasionally clear enough for spearing in recent years but most years it was too turbid. High numbers of Northern Pike (>6/GN) could be having negative effects on Walleye stocking efforts at Arvilla Lake. Trap nets sampled moderate numbers (102) of Black Crappie in 2018 for a catch rate of 11.3/net, which was within the normal range for this type of lake. The 2014 LMP's long range goal (>1.2/TN) was met. The 2009 TN catch rate was similar at 13.1/net. Catch rates from 1977 to 2018 (n=8) were variable, ranging from 0.0 to 37.8/net with an average of 13.5. In 2018, trap netted Black Crappie were 2.4 to 11.8 inches long with an average of 8.2. Approximately 25% of the TN catch was 10 inches or longer, indicating some quality fish are available. Gill nets sampled moderate numbers of Black Crappie (44) for a catch rate of 7.3/net, which was within the normal range for this type of lake. The 2009 GN catch rate was 23.5/net. Catch rates from 1977 to 2018 (n=8) were variable, ranging from 0.0 to 23.5/net with an average of 6.7. In 2018, gill netted Black Crappie were 4.1 to 9.9 inches long with an average of 6.3. Black Crappie were not aged, but size distributions indicated that multiple year classes were present. Higher catch rates for Black Crappie during the last two surveys could be having negative impacts on Walleye fry stocking efforts at Arvilla Lake. Trap nets and gill nets failed to sample any White Crappie in 2018. The 2014 LMP's long range goal for White Crappie (maintain presence) was not met. The 2009 TN catch rate was 6.2/net. Historical TN catch rates from 1977 to 2018 (n=8) ranged from 0.0 to 7.2/net with an average of 2.4. The 2009 GN catch rate was 8.0/net. Historic GN catch rates from 1977 to 2018 (n=8) ranged from 0.0 to 8.0/net with an average of 1.2. Historic catch data indicated that White Crappie were rarely abundant at Arvilla Lake. Trap nets sampled high numbers of Bluegill (251) for a catch rate of 27.9/net, which was above the lake's normal range and the second highest ever recorded at Arvilla. The 2014 LMP's long range goal for Bluegill (maintain presence) was met. The 2009 catch rate was 12.0/net. Catch rates from 1977 to 2018 (n=8) were variable, ranging from 0.0 to 56.3/net, with an average of 18.2. In 2018, trap netted Bluegill were 3.4 to 8.5 inches long with an average of 6.1. Approximately 14% of the trap net catch was 7 inches or longer, indicating a decent population. Gill nets sampled high numbers (162) of Bluegill for a catch rate of 27.0/net with fish averaging 6.0 inches in length. Bluegill were not aged, but size distributions indicated that multiple year classes were present. Spring night-time electrofishing, the preferred method for measuring Largemouth Bass abundance, was not conducted in 2018. Gill nets sampled 1 Largemouth Bass for a catch rate of 0.2/net and that fish was 15.0 inches long. Trap nets sampled 2 Largemouth Bass for a catch rate of 0.2/net. Trap netted Largemouth Bass were 15.0 to 15.1 inches in length. Net catches indicated that Largemouth Bass were present, but not overly abundant. Gill nets sampled low numbers of Channel Catfish (5) for a catch rate of 0.8/net. The 2009 catch rate was also low (0.8/net). Historic catch rates from 1977 to 2018 (n=8) were all low, ranging from 0.0 to 2.4/net with an average of 0.5. In 2018, GN Channel Catfish were 10.2 to 23.3 inches long with an average of 15.6. Trap nets sampled 4 Channel Catfish that were 17.4 to 21.4 inches long. Channel Catfish were not aged. These fish likely immigrated into Arvilla via Washington Creek and came from the North Fork of the Crow River. Gill nets sampled low numbers of Yellow Perch (2) for a catch rate of 0.3/net, which was below the lake's normal range. The 2009 catch rate was similar (0.2/net). Catch rates from 1977 to 2018 (n=8) were mostly low, ranging from 0.0 to 10.2/net with an average of 1.6. Yellow Perch have not been sampled in high numbers since 1984 (10.5/net). The one measured Yellow Perch, from the GN, was 6.1 inches long. Trap nets also captured low numbers (5) of Yellow Perch, ranging in length from 5.1 to 9.0 inches. Yellow Perch were not aged. Trap nets sampled high numbers of Common Carp (45) for a catch rate of 5.0/net, which was within the normal range for this type of lake. Historic catch rates (n=8) from 1977 to 2018 were variable, ranging from 0.0 to 24.8/net with an average of 5.5. Trap netted Common Carp were 15.0 to 33.1 inches long with an average of 21.4. Gill nets sampled low numbers of Common Carp (2) for a catch rate of 0.3/net, which was below the lake's normal range. Historic GN catch rates (n=8) were variable, ranging from 0.0 to 6.2/net with an average of 2.9. Gill netted Common Carp were 25.2 to 32.7 inches long with an average of 28.9. Size distribution data indicated that multiple year classes were present. High numbers of Common Carp over the last 60 years have likely had significant negative impacts on submergent plant abundance and water quality in Arvilla Lake. Common Carp are difficult to control due to the highly connected watershed along Washington Creek and the North Fork of the Crow River. Gill nets sampled moderate numbers (192) of Black Bullhead for a catch rate of 32.0/net, which was just above the lake's normal range. The 2009 catch rate was 6.3/net. Historic GN catch rates from 1977 to 2018 (n=8) were mostly high, ranging from 6.3 to 907.0/net with an average of 245.3, as might be expected in a lake that winterkills frequently. Gill netted Black Bullhead were 6.0 to 12.4 inches long with an average of 9.9. Trap nets sampled low numbers (29) of Black Bullhead for a catch rate of 3.2/net which was below the lake's normal range. Trap netted Black Bullhead were 6.1 to 11.6 inches long with an average of 10.2. Additional species sampled in the standard gear included; Bigmouth Buffalo, Bowfin, Brown Bullhead, Golden Shiner, Shorthead Redhorse, White Sucker, and Yellow Bullhead. Presence of Bigmouth Buffalo and Shorthead Redhorse indicated that there was a good connection between Arvilla and the North Fork of the Crow River.

June 29, 2009A population assessment was conducted at Arvilla Lake in 2009 to evaluate the lake's fish population. A total of 16 different species of fish were sam…

A population assessment was conducted at Arvilla Lake in 2009 to evaluate the lake's fish population. A total of 16 different species of fish were sampled, plus hybrid sunfish. Arvilla has a history of partial winterkills, with the latest documented kill occurring during the 2007-2008 winter. The lake was not stratified on 6/29/09 and dissolved oxygen was 7 mg/l from top to bottom. Clarity was poor, due to an algae bloom, with a secchi disk reading of 1.5 feet. Gill nets sampled 36 northern pike for a catch rate of 6.0/net, which was within the normal range for this type of lake. The 2004 catch rate was almost identicle at 6.4/net. Northern pike were 10.2 to 30.7 inches long averaging 20.5 inches. Trap nets sampled fish up to 35.1 inches in length. Northern pike were 1 to 5 years old with 5 year-classes present. Growth was moderate. Gill nets sampled 36 walleye for a catch rate of 6.0/net, which was within the normal range for this type of lake and the highest ever measured at Arvilla. The 2004 catch rate was 1.8/net. Walleye were 9.5 to 26.2 inches long averaging 14.7 inches. Trap nets sampled walleye up to 27.6 inches in length. Walleye were 2 to 12 years old with 6 year-classes present. Approximately 78% of the gill net catch was from the strong 2007 year-class. Growth was fast. The old stocking regime (500 fry/littoral acre two-out-of-three years), which started in 1998 and ended in 2005, produced a unsatisfactory catch rate in 2004. A new regime (1,000 fry/littoral acre every-other-year) was initiated in 2007 and this first evaluation indicated favorable results. Spring night-time electrofishing sampled 13 largemouth bass for a catch rate of 13.5/hr. This was the first time that electrofishing was used on Arvilla to sample largemouth bass. Largemouth bass were 4.6 to 13.5 inches long averaging 8.9 inches. Largemouth bass were 1 to 5 years old with 4 year-classes present. Growth was moderate. Dead largemouth bass were found on shore following the 2007-2008 winter. Gill nets sampled 5 channel catfish for a catch rate of 0.8/net. The catch rate in 2004 was 2.4/net. Gill netted fish were 20.2 to 23.5 inches long averaging 21.4 inches. Several dead channel catfish were found on the shoreline following the 2007-2008 winter. Channel catfish could be partially responsible for the apparent drop in black bullhead numbers at Arvilla. Trap nets sampled 118 black crappie for a catch rate of 13.1/net, which was within the normal range for this type of lake. The 2004 catch rate was 10.4/net. The 2009 gill net catch was 23.5/net, which was well above the normal range and the highest ever observed at Arvilla. The 2004 gill net catch was 7.6/net. Gill netted black crappie were 3.8 to 10.8 inches long averaging 7.1 inches. Trap nets sampled fish up 13.98 inches in length. Black crappie were 1 to 8 years old with 8 year-classes present. Growth was moderate. Trap nets sampled 56 white crappie for a catch rate of 6.2/net which was above the normal range for this type of lake. Only 1 white crappie was sampled during the 2004 population assessment. Gill nets sampled 48 white crappie in 2009, for a catch rate of 8.0/net which was within the normal range and the highest ever recorded at Arvilla. Gill netted white crappie averaged 5.2 inches in length. Trap netted white crappie were 4.5 to 13.9 inches long averaging 8.1 inches. Trap nets sampled 108 bluegill for a catch rate of 12.0/net, which was within the normal ranged for this type of lake. The 2004 catch rate was 19.9/net. Bluegill were 2.8 to 7.95 inches long averaging 5.8 inches. Approximately 17% of the trap net catch was 7 inches or longer. Bluegill were 1 to 7 years old with 7 year-classes present. Growth was moderate. Dead bluegill were found on shore following the 2007-2008 winter.

Frequently Asked Questions

What fish can you catch in Arvilla?

Based on Minnesota DNR survey data, anglers target Northern Pike, Largemouth Bass, Black Crappie, White Crappie, and Green Sunfish in Arvilla. See the full species list above for catch rates, size structure, and quality scores.

Is there public access at Arvilla?

Minnesota DNR records list public access for Arvilla. Check the DNR LakeFinder page for the launch type and directions before you go.

How deep is Arvilla?

Arvilla has a maximum depth of 9 feet, per Minnesota DNR data.

When were the main sport fish in Arvilla last surveyed?

The most recent Minnesota DNR survey data for the main sport fish in Arvilla is from 2018. Surveys this old should be treated with some caution — fish populations change over time.

Does Arvilla have any invasive species?

No invasive species are on record for Arvilla in Minnesota DNR data. Always clean, drain, and dry your equipment to help keep it that way.

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Lake Details

Surface Area
137.85 acres
Max Depth
9 ft
Shoreline
2.32 mi
Public Access
Yes
View on DNR LakeFinder

Location

45.1495°N, 94.3071°W

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