Lake guides · Whitefish Chain
Clamshell Lake
A small, clear lake with a public launch and a channel to Bertha, known for pike and bluegill.
Clamshell is a 211-acre lake with six and a half miles of shore and a maximum depth of 44 feet. About three-quarters of it is 15 feet deep or less, yet average clarity is a good 15.8 feet.
A U.S. Army Corps of Engineers launch on the north shore gives public access, and a channel leads to Bertha Lake and on to the rest of the chain.
Where it sits on the chain
Clamshell lies on the Jenkins side of the chain, linked to Bertha by channel. Its long shoreline for its size wraps around bays and three small islands near the north launch.
For a small lake it offers a lot of frontage variety, from shallow bays to deeper water.
Fishing: what the DNR found
Northern pike were abundant in 2024 (10.7 per net), averaging 20.7 inches; 18% were 26 inches or longer. Walleye were not sampled, which the DNR says is typical for Clamshell.
Bluegill were numerous (37.8 per trap net), averaging 5.5 inches with fish near 9 inches. Crappie are naturally scarce here. Clamshell is listed as infested with zebra mussels.
What it is like to own here
Clamshell suits owners who want a smaller, clear lake with its own public launch and easy access to the chain. Shallower bays mean warmer water and more plants; check dock depth and bottom type at each lot.
The public launch brings some traffic to the north shore; lots farther away tend to be quieter.
Getting on the water
A U.S. Army Corps of Engineers launch on the north shore, on a small bay north of three islands, plus a channel to Bertha Lake.
Rules every owner on the chain should know
- Panfish limits: since 2021 the Whitefish Chain has a special daily limit of 5 sunfish and 5 crappie, to protect panfish size.
- Northern pike: the chain is in the DNR's north-central pike zone. All pike from 22 to 26 inches must be released right away, and you may keep no more than 2 over 26 inches (possession limit 10). Check the current regulations each season.
- Aquatic invasive species: zebra mussels are present in the chain. Before you leave any access, remove plants and animals from boats and trailers, pull the plug and drain all water, including bilges, livewells and bait wells. Plan to check docks, lifts and boat hulls when equipment comes out each fall.
- Building, docks and septic: shoreland setbacks, impervious-surface limits, vegetation and septic rules are set by Crow Wing County. Confirm what a specific lot allows with the county before you buy or plan a project.
Buying on Clamshell Lake: what to check
- Shore slope and stairs. Deep lakes often mean steeper lots; walk from the cabin to the dock before you fall for the view.
- Bottom type at the waterline: sand, rock, or soft bottom with plants. It decides how you will use the shore.
- Which way the frontage faces and how exposed it is to wind and wakes; west-facing lots get the sunsets.
- Dock, lift and boat condition, including zebra mussel buildup, and what stays with the sale.
- Septic compliance, well, and what Crow Wing County allows for additions, garages or a new build on the lot.
Selling on Clamshell Lake
Lake homes sell on the water as much as on the house: frontage, bottom, depth off the dock, exposure and the view all move the price, and so does how the home is presented. If you are thinking about selling, start with a private valuation. It stays between us, and you decide how far the sale travels from there.
Questions about Clamshell Lake
How deep is Clamshell Lake?
Clamshell Lake reaches a maximum depth of 44 feet, according to the Minnesota DNR.
How big is Clamshell Lake?
The DNR lists it at 211 acres with 6.49 miles of shoreline.
Is there public access on Clamshell Lake?
A U.S. Army Corps of Engineers launch on the north shore, on a small bay north of three islands, plus a channel to Bertha Lake.
Are there zebra mussels in Clamshell Lake?
Yes. Zebra mussels are present in the Whitefish Chain, and boaters are required to clean, drain and dry their boats and trailers.
Can I get a private home valuation on Clamshell Lake?
Yes. David Olson of Whitefish Property Finder prepares private valuations for lake homes on the chain. Call or text 218.513.2677 or email david@whitefishpropertyfinder.com.