Bowstring Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Bowstring Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Bowstring Lake today is 11.6°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 50°F (10°C) to 54°F (12°C). The water is slightly warmer, but still cool for most people. Swimming in such conditions is possible, but for most people, the time spent in the water should be limited to avoid hypothermia. Even experienced swimmers may feel discomfort if they stay in the water for too long. To improve comfort and safety, a wetsuit can be used. It is important to note that these swimming tips and recommendations apply only in good weather. When the air temperature is below 68°F (20°C), and sometimes even below 77°F (25°C), swimming can be unpleasant even with relatively high water temperatures.
Water Temperature Chart Over the Last 30 Days
Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data
| Date | Current | Average | Forecast |
|---|---|---|---|
| OCT 6 | 12.5°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 11.4°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 11.9°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 11.7°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 11.7°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 10.4°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 12.0°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 14 | 12.0°C | 11.6°C | |
| OCT 15 | 12.0°C | 11.6°C | |
| OCT 16 | 12.0°C | 11.7°C | |
| OCT 17 | 12.0°C | 11.7°C | |
| OCT 18 | 12.0°C | 11.7°C | |
| OCT 19 | 12.0°C | 11.7°C | |
| OCT 20 | 12.0°C | 11.7°C |
* Current - Actual water temperature value
** Average - Average water temperature on this day in recent years
*** Forecast - Our water temperature forecast
Actual nearshore water temperatures may fluctuate by several degrees from the reported values, especially following heavy rainfall or extended periods of strong winds. Certain wind patterns can cause colder, deeper waters to rise and replace the sun-warmed surface water, leading to noticeable variations.
Our forecast is based on a proprietary mathematical model that considers real-time water temperature changes, historical trends, key weather patterns, wind strength and direction, and air temperature specific to each region. Additionally, we incorporate data from other resorts to enhance accuracy.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 0°C | 1°C | 4°C |
| February | 0°C | 2°C | 4°C |
| March | 0°C | 2°C | 4°C |
| April | 1°C | 6°C | 10°C |
| May | 4°C | 12°C | 19°C |
| June | 12°C | 20°C | 27°C |
| July | 19°C | 23°C | 27°C |
| August | 20°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| September | 16°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| October | 6°C | 12°C | 18°C |
| November | 3°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| December | 0°C | 5°C | 9°C |
Bowstring Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Bowstring Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Bowstring Lake, in northern Minnesota, experiences a wide seasonal swing in water temperature. After ice-out in spring the surface is typically cold, roughly 40–60°F (4–16°C) as snowmelt and cool air keep the lake chilled. In summer, surface temperatures commonly warm into the mid-60s to mid-70s °F, about 18–24°C, although shallow bays can heat a few degrees higher on hot, calm days. By early fall the surface begins to cool again, often falling into the 50–60°F (10–16°C) range before mixing and eventual ice formation. During winter the lake is ice-covered and the near-surface water is at or just above freezing, about 32°F (0°C), making open-water swimming impossible.
Swimming at Bowstring Lake is a typical summertime recreational activity when open water and warm surface temperatures occur. Many people swim from shore or boats in summer because temperatures can be comfortable for brief to moderate swims; however, conditions vary with depth, wind and shade, so some areas stay noticeably cooler. There are no statewide prohibitions on swimming, but ice, sudden weather changes and cold water shock in spring and fall make swimming hazardous outside the warmest weeks. Swim only in safe, monitored areas, be mindful of boating traffic and check local conditions before entering the water.