Hunting, Fishing and Shooting
The USDA-Forest Service and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MnDNR) share responsibility for managing wildlife resources on the Superior National Forest. The MnDNR is the agency responsible for regulating hunting seasons and enforcing game laws. The Forest Service, mainly through timber harvest, is able to contribute to improved habitat conditions, and as such, affect wildlife populations on the forest.
Hunting is allowed on all Superior National Forest lands, including the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, except within the limits of developed recreation sites such as campgrounds and boating sites. Hunting on private land within the Forest boundary is allowed only if you have permission from owner of the property. To be sure you are on National Forest land, consult a good land ownership map or your local game warden.
With thousands of lakes, 77 lake accesses, and 13 accessible fishing piers, the Superior National Forest is made for fishing. Many of the lakes are cold water with rocky bottoms that harbor walleye and lake trout, while others have habitat for bass and crappies. Northern pike, yellow perch, rainbow trout, cisco, and even eelpout (burbot) can also be found in Superior National Forest waters.
Fishing regulations are set by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, and you must have a current Minnesota fishing license to fish. Fishing regulations may change yearly, so visit the MN DNR's website for current fishing regulations and license information. MN DNR's Lake Finder site will allow you to see lake maps and fish species for many Minnesota lakes, including many of those in the Superior National Forest.
Stop the movement of invasive species that can hurt aquatic ecosystems by not releasing unused bait and cleaning off trailers and boats of all aquatic vegetation. Even worms are unwanted species in Northern Minnesota, so don't let your worms go!
The lead used in fishing tackle is poisonous, so you are encouraged to use lead free tackle in your fishing expeditions.
Lake and Pond Fishing
Walleyes, northern pike, bass, perch: the lakes and ponds of the Superior National Forest are destinations for many people in search of fish. If you are planning a fishing trip, our fishing guide will give you fish species and approximate locations of many popular lakes on the Tofte and Gunflint Districts of the Forest. For other Districts of the Forest as well as for more precise locations in Tofte and Gunflint, you should obtain a Superior National Forest map with the locations of all lake accesses.
Boaters should be aware that there are both boat ramps for trailered boats and carry down accesses for canoes, kayaks, and small boats. Make sure the lake you are planning on fishing has access for your kind of boat. Regardless of the kind of boat you are using, Minnesota law requires that all boats be registered. Out of state registrations meet the requirement, but if your boat is from out of state and is not registered in your home state, it will need to be registered in Minnesota.
If you are planning on fishing in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, follow the link for more information on motor use and guidelines on fishing in the BWCAW.
Prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species by obtaining bait locally, and disposing of unwanted live bait by killing it and throwing it away properly rather than releasing it. Double check your boat and trailer for aquatic vegetation before putting it in the lake, and then pick all vegetation off your trailer after pulling it from the water. Not only are these good ideas, they are the law, and you can be fined for not complying.
Ice Fishing
Ice fishing in northern Minnesota can be great! The solitude and quiet out on the ice on a clear winter's day is inspiring, and the fish can be plentiful.
You do have to be prepared. Check ice thickness before venturing on to the ice. Carry 'ice picks' to be able to climb out in case you go through the ice, and a length of rope for rescues. Bring extra clothing in waterproof bags for a wet person to change into. Remember that cell phone service is spotty and you can not count on quick access to emergency services.
Remember as well that many forest roads are not plowed in the winter. You may wish to check with ranger district offices about winter access to lakes and ice conditions before you head out.
River and Stream Fishing
A deep cold pool in a stream just begs you to drop a 'woolly bugger' right on top of the big brook trout that is sure to be lurking in the hole. Streams and rivers in the Superior National Forest may be home to brook trout, rainbow trout and brown trout, as well as lake trout, steelhead, splake, and salmon.
You'll will want to check the MN DNR regulations on stream fishing. There are different rules for steams and rivers emptying into Lake Superior, for designated trout streams and lakes, and for certain species of fish, as well as a special trout stamp requirement.
If the area you are planning to fish is within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, make sure to check the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness portion of the website for additional rules and guidelines for fishing in the BWCAW.
Hunting
Hunting opportunities on the Forest are varied, ranging from big game animals such as white-tailed deer, and black bear to small game such as grouse and snowshoe hare. In the fall, hunters take to the many lakes, streams, and wetlands located throughout the forest to hunt a variety of waterfowl. Both puddle ducks (mallards, black ducks, wooducks) and diving ducks (scaups, ringbills, goldeney, buffleheads) can be found in fair numbers early in the season. Canada and snow geese are occasional visitors to the Forest as well. Lakes and rivers that have beds of wild rice are particularly attractive to waterfowl.
Please follow Forest Service policies regarding the use of hunting stands and Off-Highway Vehicles. Hunting Stand policies are common to both the Superior and Chippewa National Forests in Minnesota. Hunters also need to be aware that the recently revised Forest Plan includes some new policy regarding Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) use on Superior National Forest lands.
Camping often is an integral part of the Superior National Forest hunting experience. The Forest has 23 developed campgrounds, 16 rustic campgrounds, as well as a large number of backcountry campsites located inside and outside of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Most of the developed campgrounds are open year-round, however, regular maintenance is discontinued after the Labor Day weekend.
Several Hunter Walking Trails have been established on the Forest, with help from the Ruffed Grouse Society. These trail systems are designed for upland bird hunting, and the forest there is managed to provide habitat for these birds.
Search for Hunting, Fishing and Shooting Opportunities
Agassa Lake
Astrid Lake Area
August Lake
Baker Lake Rustic Campground
Ball Club Lake
Bear Island Lake
Bearskin Lake Backcountry Site
Big Lake
Big Rice Lake
Birch Lake