Lake Ilmen is a large freshwater lake located in northwestern Russia. It is situated near the city of Novgorod and is part of the Volga-Baltic Waterway. The lake covers an area of approximately 1,000 square kilometers and has a maximum depth of about 10 meters. The lake is fed by several rivers, including the Msta and Luga, and it drains into the Ilmen River. Lake Ilmen is known for its diverse ecosystem, supporting various fish species and bird populations. It also plays a significant role in local recreation and tourism, attracting visitors for fishing and boating activities.