Lake Pepin is a naturally occurring 21-mile widening of the Mississippi River, spanning approximately 25,000 acres between Red Wing, Minnesota and Bay City, Wisconsin. This border water stretches across Goodhue and Wabasha counties in Minnesota, and Pepin and Pierce counties in Wisconsin, offering over 117 miles of diverse shoreline characterized by steep bluffs, rolling hills, and extensive stretches of riprap. With a maximum depth of 70 feet, Lake Pepin provides varied habitat that supports an abundant forage base and diverse fishery. The lake's connection to the Mississippi River creates a dynamic ecosystem influenced by river flows and seasonal movements of fish between the lake and connected waters. As a border water, Lake Pepin remains open to fishing year-round, making it especially popular in early spring when many inland waters remain closed.