Lura Lake has not suffered the effects of a winterkill since before 1994, most likely due to the operation of two aerators. The result is a fishery stocked with walleyes, which now vary in size from recently planted fingerlings to fish in excess of 10 pounds. Last winter was very productive, with photographs of numerous trophy fish being displayed by smiling anglers in area establishments.

Access to the ice is available within Blue Earth County's Daly Park, which is an expansive and wooded campground on the northeastern shore of Lura Lake. This beautiful park is on Blue Earth County Highway 191 four miles south of Mapleton. In the summer months, a fishing pier and nearly a mile of shoreline angling are available at this location. Access is also available in the northwestern bay near the aeration system.

Lura Lake has long been known as a productive fishery. During the winter months, anglers scatter across the ice, taking most of their fish between sunset and sunrise with shiner or fathead minnows on tip-ups. The most patient, and quiet, anglers can also pick up an occasional fish on a jigging spoon.

Lura Lake has not suffered the effects of a winterkill since before 1994, most likely due to the operation of two aerators. The result is a fishery stocked with walleyes, which now vary in size from recently planted fingerlings to fish in excess of 10 pounds.

Be advised that Lura Lake should be traveled on with great care. In addition to areas of open water created by the aerators, numerous points and narrows can be the source of weak ice.

It has not only been Lura Lake's walleye population reaping the benefits of mild winters. Northern pike, largemouth bass and crappies have occasionally been stocked in the lake throughout this time, and it is favorable for natural reproduction. Test-netting has shown that all of these species are present in large numbers and sizes. Look in the lake's smaller bays for panfish and bass. Pike can be found roaming around the lake. Jumbo perch are also naturally present in limited numbers and will usually be found near the walleyes. There are some very large fish of all species lurking here. This is a lake that is currently at the top of its game and should remain there as long as mild winters continue to make it possible.

For more information regarding Lura Lake, contact The Greater Mankato Area Convention & Visitors Bureau at 1-800-657-4733, or visit www.greatermankato.com