Minnesota · Fishing
Fishing in Ely, Minnesota
Ely sits at the edge of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, and the fishing around it reflects that — dozens of lakes within reach, most of them quiet, many of them lightly pressured compared to resorts farther south.
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Ely sits at the edge of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, and the fishing around it reflects that — dozens of lakes within reach, most of them quiet, many of them lightly pressured compared to resorts farther south. The ten lakes listed here range from drive-up spots like Fenske Lake Campground, where pier fishing makes access easy for families and beginners, to paddle-in waters like Lac La Croix, a large border lake that takes more planning but rewards the effort. Birch Lake and Gun Lake are accessible without a BWCAW permit, which matters if you want to fish without the entry-quota system. Little Trout Lake, Oyster Lake, Pekan Lake, Neewin Lake, Cummings Lake, and Kangas Lake round out a mix of sizes and characters — some shallow and weedy, some deeper and clearer. Walleye and northern pike are the species most anglers target in this region, with smallmouth bass showing up in rockier lakes and panfish available in most of them. Water temperatures in the Ely area keep fish active later into the fall than lakes farther south, and ice-out typically runs mid-April to early May, which signals the start of the best walleye window of the year.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a BWCAW permit to fish lakes like Lac La Croix?
Yes. Lac La Croix is inside the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, so you need a BWCAW entry permit in addition to a Minnesota fishing license. Permits are quota-based and can sell out for popular entry points, especially in summer, so book through Recreation.gov well in advance. Birch Lake and Gun Lake are outside the BWCAW boundary and do not require a wilderness permit.
What fish species can I realistically expect to catch around Ely?
Walleye and northern pike are the most commonly targeted species across these lakes. Smallmouth bass are present in lakes with rocky structure. Most lakes in the area also hold yellow perch and bluegill, which are good options for kids or anyone who just wants consistent action. The specific mix varies by lake, so checking the Minnesota DNR lake finder for individual lake surveys before you go is worth the ten minutes.
Is Fenske Lake Campground a good option for families or people without a canoe?
It is. Fenske Lake Campground has a pier, which makes it one of the more accessible spots on this list — no portaging, no paddling required. It is a smaller lake, so expectations should be set accordingly, but it is a practical choice if you are camping there with kids or just want a low-effort evening of fishing.
When is the best time of year to fish around Ely?
The walleye opener in mid-May is the most popular window, and for good reason — fish are shallow and actively feeding after ice-out. Early morning and late evening produce the most consistent walleye action throughout summer. Fall, from mid-September through October, is underrated: fishing pressure drops sharply, the lakes are less crowded, and walleye and northern pike feed aggressively before winter.
What gear should I bring for lake fishing in this area?
A medium-power spinning rod in the 6- to 7-foot range handles most situations — walleye jigging, live-bait rigs, and casting for pike. Bring a selection of jigs in the 1/8 to 3/8 ounce range, some slip-sinker rigs for live bait, and a few larger spoons or swimbaits if you want to target northern pike. A landing net, a pair of needle-nose pliers for pike teeth, and a valid Minnesota fishing license are non-negotiable before you wet a line.
