A Sweet Catch

Considered the heart of the 8.2-acre Lamplighter Park, Lampligher Pond is located in the northwest section of St. Louis Park. The pond’s native shoreline vegetation has been restored, creating a healthy habitat for fish and wildlife. The water reaches a depth of 6 feet and is home to a plentiful supply of bluegill, black crappie and common carp. But fish aren’t the only things you might catch. According to legend, Lamplighter Park is haunted by the ghost of the caretaker of the old Silver Fox Farm, which went out of business in the area in the ‘40s. At night, an eerie light can be seen reflecting off the pond, as the caretaker walks around checking on his foxes. Will you find the ghost? Perhaps. But you’re guaranteed to scare up some fish!

Tucked inside a very residential neighborhood in Golden Valley, you’ll find Sweeny Lake. Sweeny is a 68-acre lake with an average depth of 12 ft (max depth = 25 ft). On the north end of the lake, you’ll find a small parking lot with a dock and carry-in boat access. Anglers can expect to catch a variety of fish including black bullhead, bluegill, brown bullhead, green sunfish, largemouth bass, northern pike, white crappie, yellow bullhead, yellow perch, and pumpkinseed fish. This lake is also a great spot for ice fishing.

Located inside Westwood Hills Nature Center, Westwood Lake is a 64-acre lake stocked with bluegills. Walk along the paved and natural trails to the fishing pier, spotting wildlife along the way. Fishing poles are available to rent at the Interpretive Center, which houses live animals and exhibits. There is a playground, restrooms, and ample parking.

In Golden Valley’s Theodore Wirth Regional Park, you’ll find Wirth Lake, a 40-acre, 25-feet deep lake that contains a large supply of bluegill, black crappie, bullhead, largemouth bass, northern pike, walleye, and yellow perch. There’s a pier on the east side of the lake and several shoreline fishing spots just north of the pier. There’s also a great beach for swimming and picnicking, as well as ample parking.

Located near Excelsior & Grand in St. Louis Park, Wolfe Lake is part of the larger Wolfe Park. The 3.3-acre lake reaches depths of 25 feet and features a fishing pier and four shore fishing stations. Fish species include bluegill, black crappie, largemouth bass, northern pike and yellow perch. There is a sheltered picnic area, pavilions, walking paths, a playground, restrooms, and excellent parking.