Lightning

This targeted survey was completed to determine extent of winterkill following the severe 2022-2023 winter. Early-spring trap netting results suggested that a partial winterkill likely occurred, and some gamefish mortality was evident. Northern Pike and Yellow Perch were the only gamefishes sampled. White Suckers and an abundant Black Bullhead population were also present. Walleye fry were stocked in spring 2023.

This targeted gill net survey was completed to determine the extent of winterkill following the 2021-2022 winter, to gain updated information on the gamefish community, and to evaluate success of restorative stockings of Black Crappie, Walleye, and Yellow Perch following the severe 2018-2019 winterkill event. Gill netting results indicated that extent of winterkill in 2021-2022 was minimal. Gamefish species present included Black Crappie, Bluegill, Northern Pike, Walleye, and Yellow Perch. Northern Pike (15.3/gill net) and Walleye (25.3/gill net) were particularly abundant and both populations exhibited a broad size distribution. Restorative stockings of Black Crappie, Walleye, and Yellow Perch following the 2018-2019 winterkill event were successful. Multiple year classes and harvestable-size fish are now present for these three species.

This targeted survey was completed to determine extent of winterkill following the severe 2018-2019 winter. Survey components included late-winter water quality measurement and early-spring trap netting. Late-winter dissolved oxygen readings were low, which indicated gamefish losses due to winterkill were likely. Trap netting results and abundance of dead fish along the shoreline suggested that winterkill was severe and restorative stockings were warranted. The only fishes captured were two Walleyes and four Black Bullheads. Restorative stockings of Black Crappie and Walleye were completed during spring 2019. Yellow Perch were stocked in fall 2019. In absence of future winterkill events, fishable populations for these species likely won't become established until 2021 or later.

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

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

Lightning has a maximum depth of 11 feet and a mean depth of 7 feet, per Minnesota DNR data.

The most recent Minnesota DNR survey data for the main sport fish in Lightning is from 2022.

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

No — Lightning has no lake-specific regulations in the 2026 Minnesota DNR regulations, so statewide Minnesota limits apply. The statewide walleye and sauger limit is: 6 combined, not more than one walleye over 20". Verify current rules with the Minnesota DNR before keeping fish.