Diamond Reef
It’s a well-known shallow underwater ridge in Lake Minnetonka
Diamond Reef is a well-known shallow underwater ridge in Lake Minnetonka, located just off the northeast tip of Big Island, often likened to a hammer-shaped outcrop. It's officially part of Lower Lake North and is famous for thick Eurasian water milfoil growth that comes within 5 ft of the surface, creating navigation challenges for boats and anglers alike.
🎣 Why Diamond Reef Matters
Fishing hotspot: A top walleye location—fishermen report evening success using leeches with Lindy floaters around 18–23 ft, especially near weed edges.
Boating caution: Dense submerged vegetation can snag keels and motors, making it a navigational hazard and a welcome study area for racers who map it to avoid drag.
How to Get There
By boat: Launch from Wayzata or Excelsior marinas and head northward toward the northeast tip of Big Island in Lower Lake North. Keep a lookout for water depth and weeds.
Navigation tips:
Watch the shallows—objs might lurk beneath.
GPS mapping (with sonar or enhanced mapping apps like C-MAP) helps mark weed zones.
Use charts and contour apps when navigating for safety.
Recreational Context
Popular among sailors, especially during club regattas in summer—more than a hundred keelboats frequent the area.
Walleye anglers prize the reef’s edge and weed lines for evening fishing .
Quick Summary
FeatureDetailsLocationNortheast of Big Island, Lower Lake NorthDepthOften shallower than 5 ft under vegetationVegetationThick Eurasian watermilfoilUsesFishing, sailing, mapping hazard zoneBoating cautionYes—snagging risk and drag concerns
Tips for Visitors
Bring sonar/chartplotter – helps track shallow zones.
Fish evenings, especially along weed edges.
Avoid racing or motoring through dense weeds to prevent mechanical issues.
Use digital maps (C-MAP, Genesis) for guidance—many racers map out no-go zones.
Diamond Reef is far more than just a point on a map—it’s a dynamic, living feature that influences how people fish, sail, and explore Lake Minnetonka. Whether you’re aiming for a trophy walleye or cruising with caution, knowing how to navigate Diamond Reef can make your experience richer and safer.