Big Sandy Lake vs Hickory Lake
Two of the top-scoring lakes in Aitkin County, Minnesota, side by side.
Big Sandy Lake is the larger of the two at 6,125 acres against 212 for Hickory Lake. On our rankings, Big Sandy Lake comes out ahead for fishing, Big Sandy Lake comes out ahead for boating, Hickory Lake comes out ahead for camping, Hickory Lake comes out ahead for paddling, and Big Sandy Lake comes out ahead for ice fishing.
| Measure | Big Sandy Lake | Hickory Lake |
|---|---|---|
| Lake Score | 69 / 100 | 69 / 100 |
| Nearest town | McGregor | Aitkin |
| Surface area | 6,125 acres | 212 acres |
| Max depth | 84 ft | 32 ft |
| Shoreline | 57 mi | 2.4 mi |
| Water clarity | 4.5 ft | 15.3 ft |
| Public access | 4 public boat launches (concrete) | 1 public boat launch (gravel or earth) |
| Fish species | 21 | 13 |
| Game fish | Walleye, Northern Pike, Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Black Crappie | Walleye, Northern Pike, Largemouth Bass, Black Crappie, Bluegill |
| Stocked | No | Yes |
| Special regulations | Yes | No |
| Swim beach | No | No |
| Camping | Yes | Yes |
| Invasive species | flowering rush | None listed |
Which lake is better for…
- FishingBig Sandy Lake
- BoatingBig Sandy Lake
- CampingHickory Lake
- PaddlingHickory Lake
- Ice FishingBig Sandy Lake
The lakes
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which is bigger, Big Sandy Lake or Hickory Lake?
Big Sandy Lake is bigger at 6,125 acres; Hickory Lake covers 212 acres.
Which is deeper, Big Sandy Lake or Hickory Lake?
Big Sandy Lake is deeper, with a maximum depth of 84 feet against 32 feet.
Is Big Sandy Lake or Hickory Lake better for fishing?
Big Sandy Lake ranks higher for fishing in this directory, based on game species, lake size, access and stocking. Big Sandy Lake lists 21 species and Hickory Lake lists 13.