By Nadine Meyer
November 2010
Superior National Forest Exhibit featuring fishing at the Great Lakes Aquarium, Duluth, MNWhen I think about our National Forests, fishing isn’t the first thing that pops into my mind. But, Minnesota’s Superior National Forest is a fishing treasure trove providing public space for lake, pond, river and ice fishing from piers, shorelines, and on the water. The following excerpt is taken directly from the Superior National Forest fishing webpage:
“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.”
Fishing regulations in Minnesota’s National Forests 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 LakeFinder site will allow you to see lake maps and fish species for many Minnesota lakes, including many of those in the Superior National Forest.
Thus far, our National Forests are free of aquatic invasive species. The only way to keep it that way is to be a responsible angler. 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! Place your unwanted bait in a garbage can or take it home to use again.
The Superior National Forest website identifies another desired responsible behavior for anglers – using lead-free tackle. “The lead used in fishing tackle is poisonous, so you are encouraged to use lead free tackle in your fishing expeditions.” You can learn more about lead-free tackle options at the MPCA Get the Led Out website.
For more information on specific kinds of fishing, check the areas below.
- Ice Fishing in Superior National Forest. This page includes information on ice fishing accesses and maps.
- Lake and Pond Fishing in Superior National Forest This page includes links to a fishing guide you can download, the Superior Forest Map, and fishing accesses and fishing piers in campgrounds.
- Stream and River Fishing in Superior National Forest This page provides links to trout stream access.