Charley

White sucker, shorthead redhorse, carp, northern pike, walleye, white crappie, and black crappie were sampled at or above local median levels. Black, brown, and yellow bullheads, yellow perch, and bluegill were found at below local median levels. Shorthead redhorse probably entered Charley Lake with water pumped from the Mississippi River. The numbers of carp and black bullhead are significantly lower than in 1979. Walleye are the result of stockings in Pleasant Lake.

Carp, northern pike, and bluegill populations are all higher than the local median. White and black crappie, yellow bullhead, and yellow perch are present in lower numbers than the local median. Although no black bullhead were taken in trapnets, the catch rate in the gill net is significantly higher than the local or state medians which may indicate a substantial population. The silver redhorse is an introduction through the water supply intake line from the Mississippi River.

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

We don't have a confirmed public access point on record for Charley. Check the DNR LakeFinder page for current access details before you go.

Charley has a maximum depth of 21 feet, per Minnesota DNR data.

The most recent Minnesota DNR survey data for the main sport fish in Charley is from 1984. Surveys this old should be treated with some caution — fish populations change over time.

Yes — Charley has confirmed zebra mussel. Clean, drain, and dry your equipment to avoid spreading invasives to other waters.

Yes — the 2026 Minnesota DNR regulations list 1 special rule for Charley. Special regulations override the statewide limits; see the fishing regulations section on this page. Verify current rules with the Minnesota DNR before keeping fish.