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Splake

Splake

Splake are a hybrid cross between brook trout (male) and lake trout (female), combining traits of both parent species with a silvery body and light spots.

Splake are stocked rather than naturally reproducing, as they cannot successfully spawn in most Minnesota lakes due to lack of suitable stream habitat. They exhibit faster growth rates and higher energy content than either parent species.

Physical Characteristics:
  • Silvery body and light spots.
  • Reaching 12-16 inches commonly with larger specimens possible in remote waters.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • In Minnesota, they're primarily found in designated stream trout lakes in the northern regions.
  • Many of these waters are remote, accessible only by hiking, ATV, or canoe, with some reached by float plane for stocking.

Key Locations

  • Designated stream trout lakes in the northern regions, particularly in Cook and Lake counties where over 102 such lakes exist.
  • Notable waters include High Lake, Dr.y Lake, Hanson Lake, Tofte Lake, and Norway Lake.

Specific Spots

  • Spring fishing near points and shoreline shallows.
  • Summer fishing often finding them near submerged boulders.
  • Fall fishing near points for spawning activities.
  • Target depths of 5-12 feet for most productive fishing, though splake may go deeper than brook trout in winter.

Splake FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Splake in Minnesota?

Small Swedish Pimples, walleye flyer spoons, tiny ice-fishing jigs tipped with waxworms or two waxworms, small spoons, spinners, and live minnows being particularly effective bait.

When is the best time to fish for Splake in Minnesota?

Spring fishing is excellent. June being prime time for fly fishing. Summer fishing is best in June and early July. Fall fishing occurs in September-October when they congregate near points for spawning activities. Winter ice fishing is excellent just after season opens in January.

How do you catch Splake in Minnesota?

Spring fishing near points and shoreline shallows, trolling near shore with spinners tipped with worms or casting dark-colored nymphs and Wooly Buggers. Summer fishing using wet flies and dry flies. Winter ice fishing in depths less than 10 feet with tiny ice-fishing jigs tipped with bait.

What do Splake eat?

Their diet is highly piscivorous, feeding on aquatic insects, crayfish, leeches, and fish including yellow perch, with dietary preferences varying by location and prey availability.

Where do Splake live in Minnesota?

In Minnesota, they're primarily found in designated stream trout lakes in the northern regions. Many of these waters are remote, accessible only by hiking, ATV, or canoe, with some reached by float plane for stocking.

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