What Hubert Lake offers anglers

Hubert Lake is a 1,200-acre walleye and northern pike lake in Crow Wing County, roughly 20 miles northeast of Brainerd. The lake runs deep in places—up to 90 feet—with a mix of sand, rock, and muck bottom that holds both species year-round. Walleye fishing is the main draw, especially in spring and fall when they move into shallower structure. Pike run large here and are often incidental catches, though they're worth targeting if you're set up for them.

The lake has a public access point on the south shore with a boat ramp, parking, and a small dock. The water is moderately clear, which means you'll want to fish structure—points, weed edges, and deeper holes—rather than suspending in open water. Summer can be slow for walleye because the fish move deep and the lake gets warm, but spring and fall are reliable.

Key Takeaways

  • Hubert Lake holds walleye and northern pike, with walleye as the primary target and pike as frequent bonus catches.
  • Public access is available on the south shore with a ramp and parking; no resort or rental fleet operates on the lake.
  • Spring and fall are the most productive seasons for walleye; summer fishing requires deeper presentations and patience.
  • The lake bottom is mixed sand, rock, and muck with depths to 90 feet, so a depth finder and knowledge of structure are valuable.
  • A Minnesota fishing license is required; walleye and pike have separate bag limits and size regulations that change annually.

Spring and fall walleye patterns

From ice-out through May, walleye move into 8 to 15 feet of water along rocky points and weed edges. Live bait—shiners, chubs, or crawlers—under a slip bobber works well, as does jigging with small plastics or live minnows. The north and east sides of the lake tend to warm first in spring, so start there if you're fishing early season.

Fall (September through October) mirrors spring. Walleye move shallow again as water cools, and you'll find them on the same structure. Jigs tipped with minnows or crawlers are effective, and casting crankbaits along weed lines can produce. The bite is often best in the hour or two after sunrise and before sunset.

Winter ice fishing is possible once the lake is safely frozen, typically by mid-December. Jigging with minnows in 15 to 25 feet of water near deeper holes is the standard approach. Check current ice thickness before heading out, and fish with a partner.

Summer fishing and deep-water techniques

Summer is the toughest season on Hubert. Walleye retreat to 25 to 50 feet of water, and the lake's moderate clarity means they're not as aggressive as they are in spring. Early morning and late evening are your best windows. Vertical jigging with live minnows or plastics directly over deep structure is more effective than casting.

If you're targeting pike in summer, focus on weed edges and shallow bays in early morning. Pike are more active in warm water than walleye, and they'll chase topwater lures or large swimbaits. The deeper holes hold pike too, but they're less predictable than in spring.

Northern pike and incidental catches

Pike on Hubert run 24 to 32 inches on average, with occasional fish pushing 36 inches or better. You'll catch them year-round while walleye fishing, especially on live minnows or larger jigs. If you want to target them deliberately, use heavier tackle and larger baits—6-inch shiners or crawlers work well.

Pike are most aggressive in spring and fall, when they're in shallower water. Summer pike fishing requires patience and early-morning or late-evening effort. Fall is often the best time for larger fish, as they feed heavily before winter.

Access, facilities, and regulations

The public access on the south shore has a concrete ramp suitable for most trailers, parking for about 20 vehicles, and a small dock. There are no resorts, rental cabins, or bait shops on the lake itself, so bring what you need from Brainerd or nearby towns. The nearest services are in Brainerd, about 20 miles south.

A current Minnesota fishing license is required. Walleye and pike have separate bag limits and minimum size requirements that vary by year; check the current Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) regulations before you fish. The DNR website lists any special rules for Hubert Lake, such as catch-and-release periods or slot limits.

Nearby waters and alternative options

If Hubert isn't producing or you want variety, several lakes within 15 miles offer similar fishing. Gull Lake, just south, is larger and more developed but also more crowded. Pelican Lake, to the west, is shallower and warms faster, making it better for summer walleye. Whitefish Lake, northeast, is smaller and quieter, with a similar species mix.

The Crow Wing River, which flows through the region, offers walleye and pike in a river setting. River fishing requires different techniques and has its own regulations, but it's worth exploring if you want a change of pace from lake fishing.

Tackle and gear recommendations

For walleye, a 6- to 7-foot medium-power spinning rod with 8- to 10-pound braided or monofilament line handles most situations. A depth finder is nearly essential on Hubert because so much of the productive water is deep or structure-dependent. Jigs in the 1/8- to 3/8-ounce range, live minnows, and slip bobbers cover most spring and fall scenarios.

Pike fishing benefits from slightly heavier gear—a 7-foot medium-heavy rod and 12- to 15-pound line. Larger lures and live baits are the norm. A net is useful for both species, especially if you're keeping fish for a meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best time of year to fish Hubert Lake?

Spring (April through May) and fall (September through October) are most productive for walleye. Summer is slower because walleye move deep and the lake warms. Winter ice fishing is possible once the lake freezes, typically mid-December onward.

Do I need a boat to fish Hubert Lake?

A boat is helpful because much of the productive water is in deeper areas and structure that's hard to reach from shore. The public access has a ramp, so launching is straightforward. Shore fishing is possible near the access point and along some banks, but it's limited compared to boat fishing.

Are there size or bag limits on walleye and pike?

Yes. Minnesota sets annual bag and size limits for both species. Check the current DNR regulations before you fish, as limits change year to year. The DNR website has a searchable guide by lake and species.

What should I bring if there are no bait shops on the lake?

Bring live minnows, crawlers, and tackle from Brainerd or a nearby town. Pack extra jigs, hooks, and line because replacement options are limited. Bring water, snacks, and sunscreen—the lake is remote enough that a quick run to town isn't practical mid-day.

Can I catch pike on Hubert Lake?

Yes. Pike are common incidental catches while walleye fishing, and they average 24 to 32 inches. You can target them deliberately with larger baits and heavier tackle, especially in spring and fall. Summer pike fishing is slower but possible in early morning or late evening.