description Red Lake Overview
Red Lake is a large freshwater lake situated in northern Minnesota, United States, comprising two distinct sections known as Upper Red Lake and Lower Red Lake. It is the largest body of water entirely contained within the borders of Minnesota and is unique for being held entirely in trust for the Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians. The lake was historically a major center for the commercial walleye fishing industry before stricter regulations were implemented in the late twentieth century.
help Red Lake FAQ
Is Red Lake one lake or two?
The Red Lake system has two connected sections called Upper Red Lake and Lower Red Lake. Minnesota sources commonly report them together as Red Lake, with the combined area listed at 288,800 acres. [Minnesota DNR](https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/faq/mnfacts/water.html)
Is Red Lake the largest lake entirely within Minnesota?
Yes, Upper and Lower Red Lake together are the largest body of water entirely inside Minnesota. The Minnesota DNR lists the combined area as 288,800 acres. [Minnesota DNR](https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/faq/mnfacts/water.html)
Why is Red Lake associated with the Red Lake Nation?
The Red Lake Reservation completely surrounds Lower Red Lake and includes a major part of Upper Red Lake. Fishing and access in reservation waters are governed by Red Lake Nation rules, and Minnesota DNR warns that some portions are closed to non-band members without special authorization. [Red Lake DNR](https://www.redlakednr.org/about/) [Minnesota DNR](https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/regulations/fishing/redlake.html)
What is Red Lake known for besides its size?
It is a major northern Minnesota wetland and lake environment used for fishing and subsistence resources. The Red Lake DNR identifies hunting, fishing, and subsistence natural-resource harvesting as important livelihoods for the reservation. [Red Lake DNR](https://www.redlakednr.org/about/)
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