What to expect at Lake Andrew

Lake Andrew is a shallow, weedy walleye and northern pike lake in south-central Minnesota, roughly 15 miles south of the town of Glenwood in Pope County. The lake covers about 1,100 acres and rarely exceeds 20 feet in depth, with most productive water between 8 and 15 feet. Heavy aquatic vegetation — primarily coontail and milfoil — dominates the basin and makes this lake distinct from deeper, clearer systems elsewhere in the state. The weed growth creates ideal habitat for walleye and pike but demands specific techniques and timing to fish effectively.

Walleye are the primary draw. They feed heavily in the weeds during low-light periods, especially at dawn, dusk, and on overcast days. Northern pike are abundant and often aggressive, particularly in spring and early summer. Panfish — bluegill, crappie, and perch — are present throughout the lake and provide a secondary option when walleye are inactive. The shallow, fertile water warms quickly in spring and can become sluggish in midsummer heat, which shifts where and when fish feed.

Key Takeaways

  • Lake Andrew is a shallow, weedy walleye lake best fished during low-light hours when walleye move into vegetation to feed.
  • Spring (April through May) and fall (September through October) are the most consistent seasons; summer heat can slow fishing mid-lake, though early morning and evening remain productive.
  • Access is available at the public boat launch on the north shore near Glenwood; no private resorts or marinas operate on the lake.
  • A Minnesota fishing license and a walleye stamp are required; check current regulations for daily bag limits and size restrictions before you fish.
  • Jigs tipped with live minnows, crankbaits that reach 6 to 10 feet, and live-bait rigs work best in the weed structure.

When to fish Lake Andrew

Spring (mid-April through May) is the strongest season. Walleye move shallow to spawn and feed aggressively as water temperatures climb from the low 40s to the mid-50s. The weeds are just beginning to grow, so navigation is easier and fish are less scattered. Early morning and evening produce the most consistent bites, though overcast days can yield all-day fishing.

Summer (June through August) requires patience and timing. Water temperatures reach the high 70s and low 80s, and walleye retreat to deeper weed edges and any available structure. Fish early — from first light until mid-morning — and again in the last two hours before dark. Midday fishing is slow. Northern pike remain active throughout the day, especially in shallow bays with dense vegetation.

Fall (September through October) rivals spring. Cooling water temperatures push walleye back into the shallows, and feeding activity increases as fish prepare for winter. The weed growth is at its peak, so expect to work through dense vegetation, but the payoff is consistent action. By late October, water temperatures drop into the 40s and fishing slows.

Winter (November through March) is possible but challenging. The lake freezes solid, and ice-fishing pressure is light. Walleye and pike are present but less active; jigging with live minnows near deeper weed edges and any structural breaks can produce, but success is inconsistent. Check ice thickness before heading out.

Access and boat launch details

The primary public access is the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources boat launch on the north shore, near Glenwood. The launch has a paved ramp, parking for roughly 20 vehicles, and vault toilets. It is maintained year-round, though winter access depends on snow removal. No fee is charged to launch.

The launch sits in a residential area, so arrive early during peak season (May through September) to secure parking. From Glenwood, follow Highway 28 south and watch for DNR access signs; local bait shops in town can provide exact directions if needed. The launch provides direct access to the main basin and the northern shallow bays where spring walleye congregate.

No private resorts, marinas, or rental facilities operate on Lake Andrew. The nearest services — fuel, bait, tackle, and lodging — are in Glenwood, about 15 minutes away by car. Plan accordingly if you need supplies or overnight accommodation.

Techniques and tackle for Lake Andrew's weeds

Jigs and live minnows are the foundation. Use 1/4- to 3/8-ounce jigs in dark colors (black, purple, brown) and tip them with 3- to 4-inch live shiners or fathead minnows. Work the jig along weed edges and through open pockets in the vegetation. Cast toward the weeds, let the jig fall on a controlled descent, and work it with short hops. Walleye often strike on the fall, so maintain a tight line and stay alert.

Crankbaits that dive to 6 to 10 feet work well when you want to cover water and target weed edges. Shallow-running cranks (2 to 4 feet) are useful in early spring before weeds fully develop. Retrieve steadily along the weed line or through sparse vegetation; the deflection off weeds often triggers strikes from walleye and pike.

Live-bait rigs — a slip sinker, barrel swivel, and 18-inch leader with a size 2 or 4 hook — allow you to fish live minnows at precise depths. This setup works especially well in summer when walleye suspend at the weed edge. Cast, let the rig settle, and hold position or move slowly along structure.

For northern pike, larger baits and flashier presentations produce. 4- to 6-inch minnows on jigs, spinnerbaits, and large crankbaits all draw strikes. Pike are less selective than walleye and will chase moving baits through heavy cover. Early morning and late evening are peak times, but pike can bite throughout the day.

Regulations and licensing

A valid Minnesota fishing license is required for anyone 16 and older. A walleye stamp is also required if you intend to keep walleye. Both are available online through the Minnesota DNR website, at bait shops in Glenwood, and at most sporting goods retailers. Licenses are valid for one year from the date of purchase.

Walleye regulations vary by year and management zone. Lake Andrew is in the central Minnesota zone; check the current Minnesota DNR fishing guide for daily bag limits, size restrictions, and any special rules before you fish. Pike and panfish have separate regulations. The DNR guide is updated annually and is the authoritative source for all current rules.

Catch-and-release is always an option and helps sustain the fishery, especially for larger walleye. If you plan to keep fish, bring a cooler with ice to preserve quality.

What makes Lake Andrew different from other Minnesota walleye lakes

The defining feature is the shallow, weedy basin. Unlike deeper Minnesota walleye lakes (such as Mille Lacs or Leech Lake), Lake Andrew's maximum depth of around 20 feet and heavy vegetation create a different ecosystem. Walleye here are more concentrated in specific shallow zones rather than spread across a deep basin, which can make them easier to locate but also more sensitive to fishing pressure and seasonal changes.

The weed growth is both an advantage and a challenge. It provides excellent habitat and food for walleye and pike, but it demands precise casting and weed-aware techniques. Anglers accustomed to open-water fishing on deeper lakes often find the transition to weed fishing frustrating; success here requires patience and willingness to work through vegetation.

Lake Andrew also receives lighter fishing pressure than larger, more famous Minnesota walleye lakes. This can mean better fishing during peak season, but it also means fewer anglers to ask for local tips. Talking to the staff at local bait shops in Glenwood is often the fastest way to learn current conditions and productive areas.

Nearby alternatives if Lake Andrew is crowded or slow

Glacial Lake, about 8 miles north, is another shallow walleye system with similar characteristics. It is slightly smaller and often less crowded. Bonanza Lake, roughly 12 miles east, offers walleye and pike in a deeper, clearer setting — a good option if you want to escape the weeds.

Glenwood Lake, immediately adjacent to the town, is smaller and more developed but provides quick access and consistent panfish action. It is a reasonable backup if Lake Andrew's public launch is full or if you want a shorter outing.

If you are willing to drive 30 to 45 minutes, Leech Lake and Mille Lacs Lake offer larger systems with more amenities, deeper structure, and different seasonal patterns. Both are worth considering if you plan a multi-day trip to the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of day to fish Lake Andrew?

Dawn and dusk are most consistent, especially during spring and fall. Walleye move into shallow weeds to feed during low-light periods. On overcast days, fishing can be productive throughout the day. Summer midday fishing is slow; focus on early morning (first two hours after sunrise) and evening (last two hours before dark).

Do I need a boat to fish Lake Andrew?

A boat is the primary way to access the lake's productive areas. The public launch provides easy access. Shore fishing is possible near the launch and in some residential areas, but it limits your ability to reach weed edges and deeper structure where walleye concentrate.

What size walleye can I expect to catch?

Lake Andrew produces walleye in the 15- to 22-inch range regularly, with occasional fish exceeding 24 inches. Pike run larger, often 18 to 28 inches. Panfish (bluegill and crappie) typically range from 6 to 9 inches. Size varies by season and fishing pressure; spring and fall generally produce larger walleye.

Can I fish Lake Andrew in winter?

Yes, ice fishing is possible once the lake freezes solid (typically mid-December through early March). Check ice thickness before heading out. Jigging with live minnows near deeper weed edges can produce walleye and pike, but winter fishing is less consistent than open-water seasons.

Where can I buy bait and tackle near Lake Andrew?

Glenwood has several bait shops within 15 minutes of the launch. They stock live minnows, jigs, crankbaits, and other tackle, and staff can provide current fishing reports and local tips. Calling ahead to confirm they have what you need is a good idea during peak season.