Fishing Guide to Lake Ida: Species, Tips and Access Points

Lake Ida is nestled on the countryside just northwest of Alexandria. We are one of the region’s most popular fishing destinations. With more than 4,400 acres of clear water, over 21 miles of shoreline, and depths reaching about 106 feet, the lake offers diverse habitat that supports a wide range of fish species and year-round angling opportunities.

Our Resort has hosted everyone from serious anglers chasing trophy fish to families hoping to reel in panfish for their evening fish fry! We’ve got a private boat launch for guests to use, but the Lake also has multiple easy access points for visitors year round.

Fishing Species and Tips

Let’s dive into species! Lake Ida supports a diverse fish community thanks to its clear water, rock bars, vegetation, and deep basins. We are most widely known for walleye and largemouth bass, perhaps also our northern pike or musky, but in addition to those we have bluegill, crappy, pumpkinseed, rock bass and perch.

Walleye are the most targeted species on the lake and also the lake’s primary managed species. The lake has a healthy population with many of them being around 17 inches, according to Lake-Link.com. Our best tips are to stay along rocky points and gravel bars either trolling with crankbaits or jigging with minnows or leeches. Hiring a local fishing guide is also a great idea as they can be a trickier species to track down!

Photos submitted by guests.

Largemouth bass are plentiful as well. They are most often found around docks, lily pads or other weedy, shallow areas. Topwater lures and soft plastics work great!

If you’re looking for action, northern pike and musky are a fun experience, especially from a kayak! These predators can be found cruising weed lines and shallow bays. Use flashy spoons or spinnerbaits—and be ready for a fight!

Photo submitted by guest.

Lastly, crappies and sunfish are our favorite! Perfect for families and kids, Lake Ida’s crappie and sunfish populations are strong and easy to target. Fish near docks, submerged structures, or weed edges with small jigs or worms you can snag in the Shore Shop.

Access Points

Staying at a local resort gives you one of the best fishing advantages—easy lake access anytime you want. Our resort offers easy access into the lake with our private access, private docking for your boat, boat rentals, and helpful local knowledge to point you in the right direction.
There are also multiple well-maintained public accesses on the lake, making it easy to launch boats of various types and sizes. Find a map view of the accesses here! While much of the shoreline is private, some areas near these public access points allow for shore fishing—great for a quick outing or families with young kids. Pilgrim Point County Park also offers a pristine beach experience, as well as the opportunity to wander out to the point and cast a line!

Before you go..

Before you head out, make sure and purchase your MN fishing license. You can easily purchase them online here, local gas stations, Fleet Farm or Christopherson’s Bait in Alexandria.

In conclusion, fishing on Lake Ida isn’t just about the catch—it’s about the experience. Calm mornings, loons calling across the water, and unforgettable sunsets make every trip special!

If you haven’t yet booked your stay with us, our accommodations are right on the water ensuring your can quickly get to your boat in the morning and be prepped for whatever type of fishing you are desiring!

See you on the water!