Leech Lake

In the Land of 10,000 Lakes, Leech Lake stands out as one of the best. At 109,415 acres, the lake is one of the state's largest and is an angler's paradise. Each year, thousands flock to its shores to harvest trophy muskie, walleye, perch, crappies, northern and largemouth bass, and other freshwater fish. Roughly 75 percent of Leech Lake shoreline lies within the Chippewa National Forest, leaving it undeveloped and pristine and rich with loons and eagles. One thing worth noting: Unpredictable weather and the vastness of the lake make crossing unsafe by canoe or kayak. In smaller craft, you'll want to do your paddling close to shore.