Borch/Lake Koronis

[Grabs]

Hey man, I noticed Lake Koronis listed in your top 5 for smallie lakes. I am trying to plan a camping trip for this summer to a lake within 2 hours of the metro, and I am thinking that Lake Koronis may be a nice fit. I have never fished it, but I understand that the smallmouth can be great and I am wondering how the walleye action is? Also, and suggestions about resorts on the lake? Whats good and whats not?

Thanks in advance!

[Guest]

Hey Grabs
My old work partner fished a league that hit this lake every year.He said it was one of his favorite walleye lakes on their list.It must be half decent anyway.I don't know anything about camping though

[smallies24]

There is a campground next to the lake, I believe it's on the south side. The lake has very good walleye fishing, smallmouth fishing and there's some pretty big northerns in there too. My dad practically grew up on the lake and we've been dying to fish it for the past few years. Just haven't had the opportunity. I'd give it a shot, good luck.

[Borch]

Koronis is a very good walleye lake. One of my favorites. Very good smallie lake too. As far as resorts I don't know, There is a county park on the south side and a campground. Don't be afraid to fish this lake at night for eyes. It can really be a hot bite. It's pretty good in the daylight too. I've caught most of my smallies on the gravel/rubble bar(center bar?). Good place for eyes too. Have caught several around the islands and points near the islands. Have also caught some eyes suspended over the deep water. It's a pretty decent crappie lake also. And as smallie24 mentioned some big pike too. If you feel like traveling to another lake the crow river does go into Rice Lake(also on my list)about a mile upstream. Most boats can make the jounrey unless its been a very dry year. I see boats making the trip all the time.

Good Luck!

[Guest]

Grabs,
I live in Paynesville about 1 1/2 miles from Koronis, and have had a lot of success with walleyes and smallies, near the islands,etc., mentioned by Borch. As far as resorts go, try www.paynesvillearea.com. That site is maintained by the local newspaper. There is a "Lake Koronis" link on the main page. Go to that, and look for the "Resorts" link. There are several in the area, and perhaps this will get you pointed in the right direction.

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Happy fishin'
Fitchwolf

[Grabs]

Thanks, I will take a look at it!

[This message has been edited by Grabs (edited 03-12-2002).]

[doubleUcubed]

fitchwolf, does the DNR still operate their stripping operation on the inlet of Rice? I use to help some guy's take the suckers and carp out of there after the DNR would take their set up out. Saw some mighty nice fish in that trap over the years!!

[Ruegs23]

Grabs
Last summer i camped at the county campground on the southside of the lake. The campground is across the road from the lake so you cannot keep your boat in the water. Other than that the campground was a very nice place. The owners were nice people and the price is reasonable. If you like to party I would not suggest this campsite. We were getting a little rowndy and after 11pm the owner came around on his 4wheeler and told us to be quiet. For fishing wise, it was my first time on this lake and it was fun. I heard on the walleye action, but didn't get any walleyes. Tried every night, but couldn't find them. Everyone else we talked to had the same luck. As for smallies, it was a different story!! I had never fished smallmouths in my life and caught many on this weekend. Fished mainly around the islands and the smallies were hitting realy well in shallow water. I caught one that was 4 pounds!!! Really a fun time!
Ruegs23

[Guest]

Double U,
I'm not sure about Rice, but I do know that there is still a fish trap on the south side outlet of Koronis. I believe the local sportsman's club cleans it out once or twice a year to eliminate some of the rough fish, and there are always stories of some nice fish returned to the lake. I've caught some good numbers of walleye out of Koronis, but those monsters always seem to elude me. Guess I'll just have to go out and try again this year. <sigh>

[This message has been edited by fitchwolf (edited 03-13-2002).]