Lower Hay Lake

Lower Hay is small in shoreline and big in depth. It covers 700 acres but has less than four and a half miles of shore, and it drops to 100 feet. Only about 21% of the lake is 15 feet deep or less.

Its average clarity of about 18.6 feet is the best of any lake on the chain the DNR has measured. For owners who value clean, deep, clear water, Lower Hay stands out.

Where it sits on the chain

Lower Hay sits on the Jenkins side of the chain and connects to Whitefish. The DNR launch on the south end is described as one of the better accesses on the chain, and the DNR stocks fish from there.

With so little shoreline, private frontage on Lower Hay is limited, which tends to make it scarce when it comes up.

Fishing: what the DNR found

Lower Hay isn't stocked directly with walleye, but it benefits from the Whitefish stocking. In 2024 walleye were below average in number (2.8 per net) with an average length of 16 inches; 53% were 14 inches or more.

Northern pike were average in number and good in size: mean length 23.8 inches, 21% at 26 inches or longer. Lake whitefish were plentiful. Bluegill averaged 6 inches with some near 9 inches, and crappie averaged just over 10 inches. Zebra mussels are present.

What it is like to own here

Lower Hay suits buyers who want swimming water and visibility that rivals much bigger, more famous lakes. Deep water close to shore is common, so look at the slope from the cabin to the dock and plan for stairs or a tram on steep lots.

Because the lake is deep and clear, it holds its character well into summer. Its limited frontage means patience can pay off for buyers waiting for the right lot.

Getting on the water

A DNR launch on the south end of the lake, which the DNR calls one of the better accesses on the chain.

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 Lower Hay 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 Lower Hay 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 Lower Hay Lake

More lakes on the chain