Best area to buy a cabin that's close to the Twin Cities

[Coach1310]

Like Box has said, you HAVE to weigh what is most important. You can never predict the lake health on any lake especially with new invasive species almost daily, so my question would be, IF you were stuck on a lake 5 years after you bought it, with a crashed fishery, WHAT would you need to have to still make it enjoyable?

My folks bought about 4 years ago. Their main goals were: around a one hour drive, decent fishing and bottom of the barrel price point. They had their heart set on a specific lake and they got it. They were patient, then aggressive, but bought a fixer when it came available and as far as I know it has been the cheapest purchase price on the lake in four years. We have put some sweat into it, but it is a nice drive for everyone, has decent fishing and a great lake for cruising around on the pontoon. Keep in mind that distance will limit your trips no matter what many folks say. We are able to take advantage of half days if the schedule is busy because of the proximity.