Lake Report (1997)
Name: Jefferson,West
Nearest Town: Cleveland
Primary County: Le Sueur Survey Date: 08/08/97
Inventory Number: 40-0092-02
Lake Characteristics
Lake Area (acres): 441.00
Littoral Area (acres): 348.00
Maximum Depth (ft): 24.00
Water Clarity (ft): 6.70
Dominant Bottom Substrates:
Clay, Sand, Gravel
Abundance of Aquatic Plants:
Abundant
Maximum Depth of Plant Growth:
(ft) 10.00
Fish Stocked by Species for the Last Five Years
Status of the Fishery (as of 08/08/97)
Walleye abundance remains similar to previous years, the average size being 21 inches and 3.5 pounds. Northern pike also remain consistent in abundance with previous years, but the average size is an impressive 29 inches and 6 pounds. Bluegill numbers continue to be stable with many fish between 5-6.5 inches. Crappie numbers remain consistent bit much of the population is made up of fish less than 8 inches. Some black crappies currently exceed 8 inches, but nearly all of the white crappies are less than 7 inches at this time. By the summer of 1998, many of these fish should exceed 8 inches and provide some fishing. Bullhead numbers are average to below average compared with previous surveys, with most fish being around 8.3 inches and 0.4 pounds. In summary, the fish community in West Jefferson has changed little over the last 15 years. Intermittent panfish reproduction seems to govern the fishing on this lake. As strong year-classes of panfish reach acceptable size, anglers respond. This trend should continue.