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Hill Lake vs Big Sandy 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 794 for Hill Lake. On our rankings, Big Sandy Lake comes out ahead for fishing, Hill Lake comes out ahead for swimming, Big Sandy Lake comes out ahead for boating, Hill Lake comes out ahead for camping, Hill Lake comes out ahead for paddling, and Big Sandy Lake comes out ahead for ice fishing.

MeasureHill LakeBig Sandy Lake
Lake Score76 / 10069 / 100
Nearest townHill CityMcGregor
Surface area794 acres6,125 acres
Max depth48 ft84 ft
Shoreline10.8 mi57 mi
Water clarity10.6 ft4.5 ft
Public access2 public boat launches (concrete)4 public boat launches (concrete)
Fish species1621
Game fishWalleye, Northern Pike, Largemouth Bass, Black Crappie, BluegillWalleye, Northern Pike, Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Black Crappie
StockedYesNo
Special regulationsNoYes
Swim beachYesNo
CampingYesYes
Invasive speciesNone listedflowering rush

Which lake is better for…

  • Fishing
    Big Sandy Lake
  • Swimming
    Hill Lake
  • Boating
    Big Sandy Lake
  • Camping
    Hill Lake
  • Paddling
    Hill Lake
  • Ice Fishing
    Big Sandy Lake

The lakes

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which is bigger, Hill Lake or Big Sandy Lake?

Big Sandy Lake is bigger at 6,125 acres; Hill Lake covers 794 acres.

Which is deeper, Hill Lake or Big Sandy Lake?

Big Sandy Lake is deeper, with a maximum depth of 84 feet against 48 feet.

Is Hill Lake or Big Sandy Lake better for fishing?

Big Sandy Lake ranks higher for fishing in this directory, based on game species, lake size, access and stocking. Hill Lake lists 16 species and Big Sandy Lake lists 21.