Pyramid State Park - Blue Wing Lake
Location 46 acres
Fishing Outlook
Crappie spp.
Good
Blue Wing Lake supports populations of both Black and White Crappie, with Black Crappie appearing more numerous. Although the sample size of crappies collected during the 2024 trap net survey was low, the data collected indicates a desirable size structure, as several crappies over 10" were collected in addition to smaller fish in the 6-9" range. Crappies are generally difficult to sample in strip mine lakes due to the unusual bathymetry and limited shallow water. Thus, sample sizes are typically low.
Bluegill
Fair
Bluegill growth potential appears limited, as very few individuals grow beyond 7" in length. The largest collected during the 2024 electrofishing survey measured 7.2".
White Bass
Good
Although none were collected during the 2024 electrofishing survey, White Bass in the 14-17" range have been collected during past surveys. The lake's connection to Pipestone Creek likely serves as the source of White Bass recruitment.
Channel Catfish
Average
Channel Catfish are present in Blue Wing Lake, but few have been collected during fish population surveys. During the 2024 electrofishing survey, only one 17" catfish was collected.
Largemouth Bass
Good
Blue Wing Lake supports a good bass fishery with a desirable size structure. During the 2024 electrofishing survey, bass were captured at a good rate of 96/hour. About 38% of bass in the sample exceeded 15", while 22% exceeded 18". The largest bass in the sample was 21 inches and weighed 5.4 lbs. Anglers should expect to find good numbers of bass between 15-20" in Blue Wing Lake.
Contact
618-357-2574
Description
Blue Wing Lake is a 46-acre strip mine lake located in the Denmark Unit of Pyramid State Park. Facilities include a concrete boat launch, floating dock, bathrooms, and paved parking lot.Fishery History
Blue Wing Lake supports quality fisheries for Largemouth Bass and crappie. In addition, White Bass are also present and tend to reach good sizes. The lake is bisected by Pipestone Creek and thus, Common Carp, Gizzard Shad, and gar are also prevalent. Hybrid Striped Bass were stocked from 2015 through 2019. However stockings were discontinued due to escapement into Pipestone Creek.
Site Regulations
There is no motor horsepower limit at Pyramid, however all boats must be operated at no-wake speed.
Fishing is prohibited from November 1 through the last day of February, except within the designated area between the boat launch and marker buoy. Legal fishing hours during this time are from 1/2 hour before sunrise to 2 p.m.
Site-Specific Fishing Regulations:
- Recreational Use Restriction: Waterfowl Refuge or Hunting Area (see above)
- All Fish: 2 pole and line fishing only and each pole must not have more than 2 hooks or lures attached while fishing; bow fishing is allowed
- Bluegill or Redear Sunfish: 25 Fish Daily Harvest Limit
- Channel Catfish: 6 Fish Daily Harvest Limit
- Large or Smallmouth Bass: 6 Fish Daily Harvest Limit (statewide regulation)
- White, Black, or Hybrid Crappie: 25 Fish Daily Harvest Limit
Additional Information
Planning to eat your catch? Fish Consumption Advisory information can be found here: Fish Consumption Advisory Page