Question 1

What is the current water temperature at Cottonwood Lake?

Accepted Answer

The current water temperature at Cottonwood Lake is 72°F as of June 29, 1785. This temperature reading is based on our advanced satellite monitoring system and current data collection. Water temperature is a crucial factor for fishing success and water activities.

Question 2

How often is the Cottonwood Lake water temperature updated?

Accepted Answer

Water temperature data for Cottonwood Lake is updated daily through our satellite monitoring system. The last update was made on June 29, 1785. We use advanced thermal imaging and surface monitoring technology to provide accurate temperature readings.

Question 3

What activities are suitable for the current water temperature at Cottonwood Lake?

Accepted Answer

With the current water temperature of 72°F at Cottonwood Lake, conditions are ideal for fishing, boating, and moderate water activities. The temperature typically fluctuates 2-3 degrees throughout the day. This data is monitored via satellite and updated regularly to help you plan your lake activities.

Question 4

How good is the fishing at Cottonwood Lake with the current water temperature?

Accepted Answer

The current water temperature of 72°F at Cottonwood Lake is suitable for fishing, though fish activity may vary. For best results, fish during early morning or late evening hours when fish are most active. Always check local fishing regulations and licenses before fishing.

Question 5

What is Cottonwood Lake and what activities are available?

Accepted Answer

Cottonwood Lake in McHenry County, North Dakota, stands as a picturesque gem near the town of Butte, beckoning both seasoned anglers and nature enthusiasts to its tranquil shores. Encompassing 238 acres, this inviting lake offers a serene escape into the heart of North Dakota's natural beauty.

Cottonwood Lake is a testament to the unspoiled beauty of the region, surrounded by rolling landscapes and captivating vistas. Nestled just 2.5 miles north of Butte, the lake provides a haven of tranquility for those seeking a retreat into nature's embrace.

Anglers are drawn to Cottonwood Lake for its diverse and thriving aquatic ecosystem. The lake is home to a variety of sport fish, including Northern Pike, Walleye, and Yellow Perch. Fishing enthusiasts can anticipate a rewarding experience as they cast their lines into the crystal-clear waters, with the prospect of encountering a good number of walleye, including some larger specimens.

With a shoreline extending 4.6 miles, Cottonwood Lake invites visitors to explore its picturesque surroundings. Nature walks along the water's edge provide opportunities for birdwatching, wildlife observation, and moments of peaceful contemplation. The lake's charm lies not only in its aquatic treasures but also in the enchanting landscapes that frame its shores.

Directions and Accessibility:
Discovering the allure of Cottonwood Lake is a straightforward endeavor, as it is conveniently located just 2.5 miles north of Butte. The ease of access ensures that both locals and travelers can embark on a journey to this serene oasis in the heart of McHenry County.

For anglers in pursuit of walleye, Cottonwood Lake proves to be a promising destination. The lake's waters harbor a good number of these sought-after fish, with the added possibility of encountering larger specimens. Whether casting from the shore or enjoying a day on the water, the angling experience at Cottonwood Lake promises both relaxation and excitement.

Embark on a memorable adventure to Cottonwood Lake in McHenry County, North Dakota, where the beauty of nature intertwines with the thrill of sport fishing, creating an idyllic setting for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds.

Question 6

How big and deep is Cottonwood Lake?

Accepted Answer

Cottonwood Lake is a substantial body of water covering 225.00 acres (0.35 square miles) with a maximum depth of 3.63 meters (12 feet). This size and depth make it ideal for various activities including and water recreation.

Question 7

What are the current conditions at Cottonwood Lake?

Accepted Answer

Current conditions at Cottonwood Lake as of July 11, 2026:
      Water temperature is 72°F, 
      weather is MostlyClear, 
      and water clarity is typical for the season. 
      These conditions are regularly updated to help you plan your visit.

Question 8

When is the best time to fish at Cottonwood Lake?

Accepted Answer

The best fishing times at Cottonwood Lake vary by season:
      Spring (March-May): Spring fishing at the lake is excellent for Northern pike, Walleye, Yellow perch, White bass, Black crappie. Focus on shallow areas warming up first, and use light tackle as fish become more active after winter.
      Summer (June-August): During summer months, fish are most active early morning and late evening. Look for Northern pike, Walleye, Yellow perch, White bass, Black crappie in deeper, cooler waters during mid-day.
      Fall (September-November): Fall brings excellent fishing opportunities as Northern pike, Walleye, Yellow perch, White bass, Black crappie feed heavily before winter. Focus on areas with falling water temperatures.
      Winter (December-February): Ice fishing is popular during winter months. Target Northern pike, Walleye, Yellow perch, White bass, Black crappie in shallower bays and near structure, always ensuring safe ice conditions.
      Additionally, early morning and late evening typically offer the best fishing conditions.

Question 9

What facilities and access points are available at Cottonwood Lake?

Accepted Answer

Cottonwood Lake offers the following facilities and amenities:

Please note that some facilities may have seasonal hours or closures. Check current conditions and regulations before your visit.

Question 10

What types of fish can I catch at Cottonwood Lake?

Accepted Answer

Cottonwood Lake is home to Northern pike, Walleye, Yellow perch, White bass, Black crappie. Each species has specific patterns and preferences that can help you plan your fishing trip effectively.

Question 11

What are the best techniques and times to catch Northern pike at Cottonwood Lake?

Accepted Answer

For Northern pike at Cottonwood Lake:
- Best seasons: Spring, Fall
- Active times: Morning, Afternoon
- Preferred water temperature: 55-70°F
- Typical depth: 3-12 feet in spring, 10-25 feet in summer
- Habitat: Lakes, Rivers, Marshes
- Spawning season: Early Spring

Recommended techniques:
- Fishing methods: Casting, Trolling
- Effective lures: Spoons, Spinners, Swimbaits
- Natural bait options: Live fish

Tackle recommendations:
- Rod: Medium-heavy to heavy rod
- Reel: Spinning or baitcasting reel
- Line: 20-40 lb test

Question 12

What are the best techniques and times to catch Walleye at Cottonwood Lake?

Accepted Answer

For Walleye at Cottonwood Lake:
- Best seasons: Spring, Fall
- Active times: Dawn, Dusk
- Preferred water temperature: 50-70°F
- Typical depth: 10-20 feet in spring, 20-40 feet in summer
- Habitat: Lakes, Rivers, Reservoirs
- Spawning season: Spring

Recommended techniques:
- Fishing methods: Jigging, Bottom bouncing, Trolling
- Effective lures: Jigs, Deep diving crankbaits, Spinner rigs
- Natural bait options: Minnows, Leeches, Nightcrawlers

Tackle recommendations:
- Rod: Medium power rod
- Reel: Spinning reel
- Line: 6-12 lb test

Question 13

What are the best techniques and times to catch Yellow perch at Cottonwood Lake?

Accepted Answer

For Yellow perch at Cottonwood Lake:
- Best seasons: Spring, Winter
- Active times: Morning, Afternoon
- Preferred water temperature: 50-68°F
- Typical depth: 3-12 feet in spring, 10-25 feet in summer
- Habitat: Lakes, Rivers, Ponds
- Spawning season: Spring

Recommended techniques:
- Fishing methods: Vertical jigging, Bobber fishing
- Effective lures: Small jigs, Spoons, Spinnerbaits
- Natural bait options: Minnows, Worms

Tackle recommendations:
- Rod: Ultralight to light power rod
- Reel: Spinning reel
- Line: 2-6 lb test

Question 14

What are the best techniques and times to catch White bass at Cottonwood Lake?

Accepted Answer

For White bass at Cottonwood Lake:
- Best seasons: Spring, Summer
- Active times: Morning, Dusk
- Preferred water temperature: 60-70°F
- Typical depth: 5-20 feet
- Habitat: Rivers, Lakes, Reservoirs
- Spawning season: Spring

Recommended techniques:
- Fishing methods: Casting, Trolling, Vertical jigging
- Effective lures: Jigs, Spinners, Spoons
- Natural bait options: Minnows, Worms

Tackle recommendations:
- Rod: Light to medium power rod
- Reel: Spinning reel
- Line: 4-10 lb test

Question 15

What are the best techniques and times to catch Black crappie at Cottonwood Lake?

Accepted Answer

For Black crappie at Cottonwood Lake:
- Best seasons: Spring, Fall
- Active times: Morning, Evening
- Preferred water temperature: 58-68°F
- Typical depth: Shallow in spring, deeper in summer
- Habitat: Lakes, Ponds, Slow-moving rivers
- Spawning season: Spring

Recommended techniques:
- Fishing methods: Vertical jigging, Casting, Bobber fishing
- Effective lures: Small jigs, Soft plastics
- Natural bait options: Minnows, Worms

Tackle recommendations:
- Rod: Light power rod
- Reel: Spinning reel
- Line: 2-6 lb test

Question 16

What are the best fishing seasons at Cottonwood Lake?

Accepted Answer

Spring: Best for catching Northern pike, Walleye, Yellow perch, White bass, Black crappie

Fall: Best for catching Northern pike, Walleye, Black crappie

Winter: Best for catching Yellow perch

Summer: Best for catching White bass

Question 17

What water recreation activities are available at Cottonwood Lake?

Accepted Answer

Cottonwood Lake offers various recreational opportunities including:
      - Fishing

Additional lake information:
      - Lake size: 225.00 acres (0.35 square miles)
      - Maximum depth: 3.63 meters

The lake is particularly suitable for swimming and water sports 
      during current conditions. Always check weather forecasts and local regulations before activities.

Question 18

What's the best time to visit Cottonwood Lake, and how's the weather?

Accepted Answer

The best time to visit Cottonwood Lake depends on your planned activities:
      - Summer (June-August): Ideal for swimming, boating, and water sports
      - Spring/Fall: Excellent fishing and fewer crowds
      - Winter: Ice fishing when conditions permit
      Current weather is MostlyClear. 
      Check our current updates for water temperature and conditions before your visit.

Question 19

What permits and regulations should I know about for Cottonwood Lake?

Accepted Answer

For Cottonwood Lake, you should be aware of:
      - Fishing license requirements (check state regulations)
      - Boat registration requirements

For specific requirements and current regulations:
      
      - Contact local authorities
      - Visit the DNR website
      - Visit official websites listed below

Question 20

Where can I find more information about Cottonwood Lake?

Accepted Answer

You can find detailed information about Cottonwood Lake through these official resources:
        
        - Additional Information
        
        These resources provide up-to-date information about:
        
        - Current lake conditions
        - Facility hours and availability
        - Special notices and alerts
        
        - Seasonal updates and events
        
        Official websites: https://gf.nd.gov/gnf/maps/fishing/lakecontours/cottonwoodmchenry2022.pdf?_ga=2.120736328.1363535486.1700242298-1474647808.1699980343&_gl=1*1fbw38j*_ga*MTQ3NDY0NzgwOC4xNjk5OTgwMzQz*_ga_E2DZPG5QJR*MTcwMDI4NDA0Ni4xMC4xLjE3MDAyODY1MTEuMC4wLjA.

Question 21

What is the water temperature at Cottonwood Lake in January?

Accepted Answer

In January, the water temperature at Cottonwood Lake is approximately 36.80°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 22

What is the water temperature at Cottonwood Lake in February?

Accepted Answer

In February, the water temperature at Cottonwood Lake is approximately 35.50°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 23

What is the water temperature at Cottonwood Lake in March?

Accepted Answer

In March, the water temperature at Cottonwood Lake is approximately 34.21°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 24

What is the water temperature at Cottonwood Lake in April?

Accepted Answer

In April, the water temperature at Cottonwood Lake is approximately 37.36°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 25

What is the water temperature at Cottonwood Lake in May?

Accepted Answer

In May, the water temperature at Cottonwood Lake is approximately 54.93°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 26

What is the water temperature at Cottonwood Lake in June?

Accepted Answer

In June, the water temperature at Cottonwood Lake is approximately 67.14°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 27

What is the water temperature at Cottonwood Lake in July?

Accepted Answer

In July, the water temperature at Cottonwood Lake is approximately 76.50°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 28

What is the water temperature at Cottonwood Lake in August?

Accepted Answer

In August, the water temperature at Cottonwood Lake is approximately 80.00°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 29

What is the water temperature at Cottonwood Lake in September?

Accepted Answer

In September, the water temperature at Cottonwood Lake is approximately 67.36°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 30

What is the water temperature at Cottonwood Lake in October?

Accepted Answer

In October, the water temperature at Cottonwood Lake is approximately 43.00°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 31

What is the water temperature at Cottonwood Lake in November?

Accepted Answer

In November, the water temperature at Cottonwood Lake is approximately 42.43°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 32

What is the water temperature at Cottonwood Lake in December?

Accepted Answer

In December, the water temperature at Cottonwood Lake is approximately 39.57°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 33

What are the current fishing conditions at Cottonwood Lake?

Accepted Answer

Current water temperature at Cottonwood Lake is 72°F. 
        Check local fishing reports for the most active species.

Question 34

What is the maximum depth of Cottonwood Lake?

Accepted Answer

Cottonwood Lake has a maximum depth of 3.63 meters (12 feet). This depth provides excellent habitat for various fish species and supports diverse aquatic life. The lake's depth profile makes it suitable for both shallow-water fishing and deep-water activities.

Question 35

How big is Cottonwood Lake?

Accepted Answer

Cottonwood Lake covers an area of 225.00 acres (0.35 square miles) at full pool. The lake is currently holding 230.14 acres of water, which represents 102.3% of its total capacity. This substantial size makes it an important recreational resource for McHenry County, offering extensive opportunities for fishing, boating, and other water activities.

Question 36

Where is Cottonwood Lake located?

Accepted Answer

Cottonwood Lake is located in Butte, McHenry County, ND. The lake is accessible to the public and serves as a popular destination for outdoor activities. Its location in McHenry County makes it easily accessible from Butte and surrounding communities.

Question 37

What is the current water level at Cottonwood Lake?

Accepted Answer

Cottonwood Lake is currently holding 230.14 acres of water, compared to its full capacity of 225.00 acres. This represents 102.3% of its total capacity. The lake is at a healthy level, ideal for all water activities. These water levels are monitored regularly and impact various recreational activities on the lake.

Metric	Sat11	Sun12	Mon13	Tue14	Wed15	Thu16	Fri17	Sat18	Sun19
Condition	Mostly Clear	Clear	Mostly Clear	Windy	Mostly Clear	Partly Cloudy	Rain	Thunderstorms	Drizzle
High / Low	98°/68°	103°/73°	101°/76°	91°/69°	91°/66°	82°/63°	79°/62°	81°/61°	80°/61°
Precip	45%	0%	52%	52%	0%	35%	53%	36%	30%
Wind	12 mphgust 24	15 mphgust 30	17 mphgust 34	18 mphgust 29	16 mphgust 28	11 mphgust 20	9 mphgust 18	12 mphgust 18	13 mphgust 20
Pressure	29.82" stable	29.86" rising	29.88" rising	30.00" rising	29.89" falling	29.85" falling	29.87" rising	29.93" rising	29.90" falling
UV Index	8	10	9	9	8	6	7	7	8
Sunrise	10:55 AM	10:56 AM	10:57 AM	10:58 AM	10:59 AM	11:00 AM	11:01 AM	11:02 AM	11:03 AM
Sunset	2:40 AM	2:40 AM	2:39 AM	2:38 AM	2:37 AM	2:36 AM	2:35 AM	2:34 AM	2:34 AM
Bite Rating	2/5waning crescent	3/5waning crescent	5/5NEW	4/5NEW	3/5NEW	3/5NEW	2/5waxing crescent	2/5waxing crescent	2/5waxing crescent

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