Lake Minnetonka Conservation District

04/06/2026

Happy Boating Season Lake Users!

03/25/2026

Nighttime Bowfishing Returns to Lake Minnetonka – Now Lakewide

The Lake Minnetonka Conservation District has approved the 2026 Nighttime Bowfishing Special Event on Lake Minnetonka, taking place April 25 through June 30, 2026.

New this year: Bowfishing is now permitted on the entire lake, rather than being limited to select bays.

Event Details:
• Hours: One-half hour after sunset until 1:00 a.m.
• A valid permit is required for all participants
• Activity must follow all safety, lighting, noise, and disposal regulations
Residents and participants can learn more and download a permit here: https://lmcd.org/2026-nighttime-bow-fishing-special-event-permit/

10/31/2025

On October 29th, the Lake Minnetonka Conservation District had the pleasure of hosting local leaders and agency partners who serve Lake Minnetonka for our Open House.

It was wonderful opportunity for networking, connection, and great conversation! We are thrilled to have seen such a fantastic turnout!

A huge thank you to everyone who joined us for the evening! We value your partnership.

09/15/2025

The Lake Minnetonka Conservation District (LMCD) will be hosting a Listening Session at our next Board Meeting to hear from the public about the Bowfishing Special Event that took place earlier this spring.

Date: Wednesday, September 24, 2025
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Wayzata City Hall (600 Rice Street E, Wayzata, MN 55391)

This is your opportunity to share your experiences and provide input on the event.

You can also share your feedback by completing our Public Survey here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/HDVXGVM

Your participation helps guide future decisions about activities on Lake Minnetonka.

06/30/2025

Independence Day is this Friday! Before you head out, be sure review the safety guidelines at the link below. Fourth of July is busy day for everyone, so let's all do our part to stay safe and help keep the lake enjoyable for all.

Fourth of July is the busiest time of the year on Lake Minnetonka. So, it is vitally important that we all practice safety to keep the lake enjoyable for all […]

04/24/2025

Hey Outdoor Enthusiasts! We’ve got some exciting news!

A special event permit has been approved, allowing Nighttime Bow Fishing on select bays of Lake Minnetonka!

Starting tonight, April 24th, users can bow fish on Harrisons Bay, West Arm, Jennings Bay, and Halstead Bay, 30 minutes after sunset to 1:00 a.m.

If you are planning to participate, you must first obtain a special event permit from the LMCD. You can either print it off at our website or pick up a paper copy at our office located at, 5341 Maywood Road, Mound, MN 55364. A special event permit MUST BE CARRIED by each participant as it serves as the physical authorization needed to permit the activity. Bow Fishing without a permit on your person is PROHIBITED.

Other important restrictions to note:
• No bow fishing is allowed within 150 feet of occupied structures or within 300 feet of campsites.
• Fish CANNOT be returned to the water or disposed of near the shoreline or public access points.
• Downward-facing LED lights must only be used for illumination.
• Noise levels must remain below 65 decibels at 50 feet from the boat.
For full details and how to obtain your Special Event Permit, visit the LMCD Website: https://lmcd.org/nighttime-bow-fishing-special-event-permit/.

Now, let’s all fish responsibly and enjoy this unique opportunity!

05/01/2024

Attention Lake Users!

Registration is now open for the 2024 Lake Minnetonka Boater Safety Program! Learn how to safely operate a watercraft and obtain a Minnesota DNR Watercraft Operators Permit.

For more information about how to register visit:

The Lake Minnetonka Boater Safety Education Program is a great way to learn how to safely operate a boat and obtain a Minnesota DNR Watercraft Operator’s Permit. Classes are for […]

06/12/2023

It's the last week to register for the 2023 Lake Minnetonka Boater Safety Education Program! This class is a great way to learn how to safely operate a boat and obtain a Minnesota DNR Watercraft Operators Permit. For more information and to register visit: https://lmcd.org/2022-lake-minnetonka-boater-safety-education-program-registration-now-open/.

Registration forms are due by Friday, June 16th at 4:30 pm. So sign up quick and get ready for a fun, rewarding experience.

The Lake Minnetonka Boater Safety Education Program is a great way to learn how to safely operate a boat and obtain a Minnesota DNR Watercraft Operator’s Permit. Classes are for […]

05/23/2023

LMCD BOATER SAFETY EDUCATION PROGRAM HAS BEEN MOVED TO TUESDAY, JUNE 20TH, 2023!

In observance of Juneteenth, the LMCD is moving its Boater Safety Education Program to June 20th.

For more information and to register, visit our website: lmcd.org/2022-lake-minn….

The Lake Minnetonka Boater Safety Education Program is a great way to learn how to safely operate a boat and obtain a Minnesota DNR Watercraft Operator’s Permit. Classes are for […]

05/15/2023

The LMCD's new rule requiring all boats to maintain a speed of five miles per hour or less with 300 feet of the shore is now in effect for Lake Minnetonka. This is an increase from the current 150-foot distance. The current rule requiring a 150 foot distance from docks, anchored boats, swimmers, or scuba diver warning flags throughout the lake has not changed.

boat wakes surfing

05/04/2023

As you head out on Lake Minnetonka this summer, please be responsible , respectful, and safe when boating or jetskiing. Learn important safety practices and rules in our new 2023 Summer Rules Brochure!

02/27/2023

The Ice shelter removal deadline is March 6, 2023! Dark houses, fish houses and portables must be off the ice no later than 11:59 pm on Lake Minnetonka and other metro lakes. If they not removed, owners will be prosecuted and have their shelter confiscated by an enforcement officer. For more information, please visit: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/fishing/shelter.html.

Information about permanent and temporary shelters used for ice fishing.