As the water warms in early summer, some Walleyes always stay in these weed beds, but large numbers of fish will move to the deeper edges of shoreline bars and points. These fish can be caught on any of the common Walleye fishing presentations like live bait rigs with medium length snells of 4-6 feet in length and tipped with leeches or crawlers will produce good catches of Walleye.
Crappies are present in a number of areas and are of good quality. Early season Crappies use the weed beds near deep water and remain in these areas for most of the summer. During late summer and fall Crappies will use the deep drop off edges and areas where remnants of “Crappie Cribs” placed during the 1980s continue to hold fish. There are several deeper rock bars located throughout the lake and Crappies will frequently use the deep edges of these bars as well.

Bluegills of excellent size can be found along the edges of weeds in 10 to 14 feet and occasionally shallower. A good approach is to move slowly along the weedline and cast small jigs tipped with plastic tails until you make contact. Then switch to a vertical fishing approach using a 1/16-ounce jig tipped with a small worm or cut piece of night crawler.
Perch are excellent size and can be active at times. In recent years, heavier pressure on Perch has reduced numbers but anglers can still find some pockets of quality Perch fishing. Most often, Perch are located on hard bottom areas associated with the large weed beds. At times, main lake bars and points will hold schools of fish as well.

Sand Lake is loaded with Northern Pike, generally small in size and highly active especially during cool water periods. This is an example of a lake where families should go out of their way to harvest some of these tasty, albeit small fish. As hard as it may be at the time, larger size pike should be returned to help control the huge population of smaller Pike.

Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass are present in adequate numbers to provide opportunities for anglers who like to explore the shallows and back bays. If you wake up in the mood for a leisurely tour, fish the wild rice edges in the Bowstring River channel that connects to Bowstring Lake. Largemouth, Bluegills and Pike can be found in several areas in the river. Wildlife viewing can be excellent here as well.
Sand Lake is the quintessential fishermen’s lake. The relative absence of sand beaches discourages pleasure boating, jet skis and the like. Even though the lake is developed, you’ll feel like you’ve gone into the wilderness on an old fashioned fishing trip.