Kawishiwi Lake

How big is Kawishiwi Lake?

How deep is Kawishiwi Lake?

What kind of fish can you catch in Kawishiwi Lake?

Are there boat launches on Kawishiwi Lake?

Are there places to eat and drink near Kawishiwi Lake?

Kawishiwi Lake is a 400 acre body of water located approximately 19 miles northeast of Isabella. Although on the very edge, Kawishiwi Lake is completely within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). The access is a gravel ramp to the water's edge, from the north end of USFS Rd. #354, watercraft and equipment must be carried into the lake as the water delineates the BWCAW boundary. Kawishiwi Lake is a major entry point into the BWCAW; the access area also has a large parking lot (20+ vehicles) and a 5 site campground. There are 6 remote campsites around Kawishiwi Lake. A self registration box and day-use permits are located at the access for day-trips and off-season camping. From May 1 through September 30 a quota system is in place for overnight camping in the BWCAW, requiring a reservation (fee) for travel from each entry point. All BWCAW regulations apply to Kawishiwi Lake; state-wide fishing regulations for inland waters apply to Kawishiwi Lake.

The fish sample in 2010 consisted of northern pike, rock bass, walleye, white sucker and yellow perch. Walleye were sampled in average numbers for northeastern Minnesota lakes with similar characteristics. The size of walleye sampled was above average at slightly less than 1.6 pounds (16.2 inches); the largest walleye was 21.5 inches. Fifty-six percent of the total walleye catch in standard sampling gear was greater than 15 inches. Walleye numbers were about average for Kawishiwi Lake with the size above average, compared to catches in previous investigations, however, Walleye growth was slow when compared to walleyes sampled in other Finland area lakes.

Northern pike were sampled in above average numbers for the lake class. The northern pike average size was 1.1 pounds (17.1inches); the largest northern pike was 23.4 inches. Historically, the northern pike catch has been average numbers of small fish. Northern pike growth was slow at all ages sampled, compared to northern pike sampled in other Finland area assessments.

Yellow perch were sampled in average numbers for the lake class in the 2010 population assessment; although, the numbers were lower than historically seen in Kawishiwi Lake. The average yellow perch weight was about one-quarter pound (7.9 inches); 42% of the yellow perch sampled were greater than 8 inches, the largest nearly 12 inches. Historically, Kawishiwi Lake has maintained a good population of large yellow perch.

Kawishiwi Lake is a popular entry point to the BWCAW and the current fish community structure, fish size and abundance should attract anglers to this lake. There are many camping options, but the access makes Kawishiwi Lake an easy day trip destination within the BWCAW.

What is the average air temp for Kawishiwi Lake?

Are there any state parks near Kawishiwi Lake?