Mention Annandale lakes and people usually start with Lake Sylvia or Clearwater. Lake John tends to come up a little later. For the right buyer, that's part of the appeal.
It's a mid-sized lake in Wright County, close to Annandale, South Haven, and Fairhaven. It's smaller and shallower than the big names around it, and that changes how it feels and how you'll use it.
The basics
Lake-Link lists Lake John at about 397 acres with 5 miles of shoreline. The maximum depth is about 28 feet, and the average is about 13 feet.
Compare that to West Lake Sylvia, which reaches 97 feet just down the road. Lake John is a different kind of water. Shallower lakes tend to warm up sooner, and they often have more plants along the shore. For some families, a warm lake and a slow afternoon sounds perfect. For others, deep water for skiing or sailing matters more. Think about your typical summer Saturday, and let that guide you.
Fishing and lake health
Lake-Link's species list includes walleye, northern pike, largemouth bass, black crappie, bluegill, and yellow perch.
A 2016 survey by DNR fisheries staff found 17 native species in the nearshore areas, including some that are sensitive to disturbance. The lake's fish-based score came in above the impairment threshold for similar lakes, which points to a healthy fish community at that time. That survey is ten years old, so check the DNR's LakeFinder for newer information.
Access and neighbors
Huikko Landing is the public water access on Lake John. Listings show a concrete ramp with one lane and parking for 19, including trailers. If you're looking at a home nearby, stop by on a summer weekend to see the traffic for yourself.
You'll also see newer homes and lots on the market near the lake. One recent listing for the Shores of Lake John neighborhood described a paved trail and a shared lakeside green space. That brings up an important question for any buyer.
Do you own the shoreline?
A home described as lake access isn't the same as a home with its own lakeshore. Before you get attached, find out:
- Do you own frontage, or do you share access with a neighborhood?
- Can you put in your own dock, or is space limited?
- Is there an association, and what are the dues and rules?
- Is the access deeded, or is it simply a neighborhood amenity?
Shared access can be a great way to enjoy a lake at a lower price. You just want to know exactly what you're buying. Read the documents, and ask for them early.
If shared access is what you're looking at, visit it before you write an offer. Count the dock slips. Look at where people park. Notice how far the walk is with kids, towels, and a cooler.
Invasive species
Lake-Link reports zebra mussels and Eurasian watermilfoil in Lake John. Wright County commissioners also approved an ordinance requiring inspections of water-related equipment entering Lake John, East and West Lake Sylvia, and Pleasant Lake.
If you're shopping here, zebra mussels are worth a practical conversation. They can attach to docks and lifts, and the DNR warns that they can cut feet on rocks and swim rafts. Water shoes may become part of your summer. Ask the current owners how they manage it, and ask how they handle the dock in the fall.
What to check before you write an offer
- Own frontage or shared access? Get the answer in writing.
- Septic certificate, if the home has a septic system. Wright County has point-of-sale rules.
- Well test results, if the home is on a well.
- Depth off the end of the dock. Ask about low-water years, too, especially if you have a bigger boat.
- The bottom at the shoreline. Is it sand, muck, or rock? Summer photos help.
Thinking about Lake John?
Lake John may be the right lake if you want a quieter feel and an easy trip into Annandale. Take a look at my Annandale area guide, or reach out and tell me what your perfect lake day looks like. We'll start there.
Hollie Engle
320.423.0902
www.hollieengle.com
Hollie Engle Real Estate, brokered by Pemberton RE.
Lake details come from public sources and can change. Verify them for any specific property.
