The Scoop on Lake Swede

Lake Swede is in Watertown, Minnesota – directly west of Lake Minnetonka. It is neighbors to Lake Waconia, Mud Lake and Oak Lake – all being relatively small-sized.  The lake is also close to the Timber Creek Golf Course and the Waconia State Wildlife Management Area. It is 433 acres in size and has 3.67 miles of shoreline. The deepest it gets is no more than a swimming pool at 12 feet.

Where did Lake Swede get its name?

Back in the 1850’s, a group of Swedish immigrants settled around lake located in the neighborhood Götaholm (Göta being a river of southern Sweden, holm being a grove). Daniel Justus was the earliest settler. He arrived in 1856 with his wife and six children (3 of whom died before the age of 20). Soon after their colonization, the lake became known as Lake Swede because of the families’ Swedish heritage.

What is there to do?

With only a handful of homeowners surrounding the lake, many anglers take the opportunity to fish here because of it’s quiet and peaceful nature. The lake also is known for its plethora of fish – some of which include Black Bullhead, Bluegill, Green Sunfish, Largemouth Bass, Pumpkinseed, Smallmouth Bass, Walleye, and Yellow Perch. Although the lake has yet to be contaminated with zebra mussels, it does contain the invasive species Eurasian Watermilfoil (learn more about weeds here).

What is there nearby?

To the southeast of Lake Swede is St Bonifacius. When looking at restaurants, local favorites include Grumpy’s on Main, Koski Vince, Mocha Monkey, and the St Boni Bistro.

On the opposite side (Northwest) of Lake Swede is Watertown. Popular places to eat around the area are Riverside Bar & Restaurant, Mario’s Italian Kitchen, R & B Café, and the Cookie Store.

Public boat launch water access at Swede Lake near Watertown, Minnesota.