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Cross Lake Reservoir vs North Long Lake

Two of the top-scoring lakes in Crow Wing County, Minnesota, side by side.

North Long Lake is the larger of the two at 6,190 acres against 1,815 for Cross Lake Reservoir. On our rankings, Cross Lake Reservoir comes out ahead for fishing, North Long Lake comes out ahead for boating, Cross Lake Reservoir comes out ahead for paddling, and North Long Lake comes out ahead for ice fishing.

MeasureCross Lake ReservoirNorth Long Lake
Lake Score76 / 10075 / 100
Nearest townCross LakeMerrifield
Surface area1,815 acres6,190 acres
Max depth84 ft97 ft
Shoreline21.9 mi20.1 mi
Water clarity16.5 ft12.1 ft
Public access3 public boat launches (concrete)4 public boat launches (concrete)
Fish species2118
Game fishWalleye, Northern Pike, Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Black CrappieWalleye, Northern Pike, Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Black Crappie
StockedYesYes
Special regulationsYesYes
Swim beachNoNo
CampingYesYes
Invasive specieszebra musselEurasian watermilfoil, zebra mussel

Which lake is better for…

  • Fishing
    Cross Lake Reservoir
  • Boating
    North Long Lake
  • Paddling
    Cross Lake Reservoir
  • Ice Fishing
    North Long Lake

The lakes

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which is bigger, Cross Lake Reservoir or North Long Lake?

North Long Lake is bigger at 6,190 acres; Cross Lake Reservoir covers 1,815 acres.

Which is deeper, Cross Lake Reservoir or North Long Lake?

North Long Lake is deeper, with a maximum depth of 97 feet against 84 feet.

Is Cross Lake Reservoir or North Long Lake better for fishing?

Cross Lake Reservoir ranks higher for fishing in this directory, based on game species, lake size, access and stocking. Cross Lake Reservoir lists 21 species and North Long Lake lists 18.