Ely, MN Fishing Conditions
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Tips & Techniques
- ✓The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness offers over a million acres of lakes with walleye, northern pike, and lake trout
- ✓Shagawa Lake directly adjacent to Ely provides accessible walleye and bass fishing without a BWCA permit
- ✓Fall Lake east of Ely is a popular entry lake to the BWCA and holds walleye and northern pike in good numbers
- ✓Remote portage lakes inside the BWCA see very little fishing pressure and produce exceptional catches of trophy fish
- ✓Tower-Soudan area lakes including Lake Vermilion are world-class walleye and muskie fisheries just west of Ely
How We Score Fishing Conditions
🌙 Lunar Phase
New and Full Moons produce peak fish activity (score: 2). First/Last Quarter and crescent phases produce moderate activity (score: 1–1.5).
💨 Barometric Pressure
Rising pressure (score: 2) strongly activates feeding. Stable pressure (score: 1) produces normal activity. Falling pressure (score: 0) suppresses the bite.
🌬️ Wind Speed
Light winds under 3 m/s (score: 2) are ideal. Moderate 3–8 m/s (score: 1). Strong winds above 8 m/s (score: 0.5–0) suppress feeding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to fish in the Boundary Waters?
You need a BWCA overnight permit for camping trips, but day trips require only a Minnesota fishing license. Self-guided canoe trips are the classic way to access remote fishing lakes.
What species can I catch in the BWCA near Ely?
Walleye, northern pike, smallmouth bass, lake trout, and yellow perch are all present. Lake trout are found in deeper clearwater lakes. Walleye and pike are the most widely available.
Is Shagawa Lake fishable without entering the BWCA?
Yes. Shagawa Lake is outside the BWCA and has public boat launches. It holds walleye and largemouth bass and is a good option for anglers without the time or equipment for a canoe trip.