Two Island Lake

How big is Two Island Lake?

How deep is Two Island Lake?

What kind of fish can you catch in Two Island Lake?

What are the closest cities to Two Island Lake?

Are there boat launches on Two Island Lake?

Are there places to eat and drink near Two Island Lake?

What are the fishing regulations for Two Island Lake?

There are specific fishing regulations Two Island Lake that you need to know. For complete fishing regulations visit the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. To report a violation call (800) 652-9093. Need a Minnesota fishing license?

Two Island Lake is a 753 acre lake located approximately 15 miles north of Grand Marais. Public access is through a concrete landing located within the US Forest Service campground on the east end of the lake. Walleye and smallmouth bass are the primary management species for Two Island Lake. Since 1996, a special regulation was put on smallmouth bass in an attempt to improve the size structure of the population. The current regulation places a 12 inch maximum size limit, with harvest of only one fish over 20 inches allowed.

Smallmouth bass abundance in Two Island Lake remains good, with similar catch rates going back to 2003. Catch rates are well above the 75% percentile for similar area lakes and indicate a quality population. Smallmouth bass ranged from 9.7 to 19.8 inches with a mean length of 14.6 inches. Aging results found 11 naturally reproduced year classes with the oldest individual being 16 years old. Growth rates appeared to be average, however this is quite good considering how abundant smallmouth bass are in the lake. Smallmouth bass regulations are continuing to work in Two Island Lake and support a relatively high-density smallmouth bass population with the capability of producing large individuals. This is one of the better smallmouth fisheries in the area.

Walleye abundance was the highest recorded since 1966 and is well above the current management goal for Two Island Lake. This is also above average for similar area lakes. The trap net catch was also high with young of year (YOY) and other smaller sized walleye. Walleye ranged between 8.5 to 24.3 inches with a mean length of 14.3 inches. Aging results found 13 naturally reproduced year classes, with strong year classes in 2018 (age 5), 2019 (age 4), and 2021 (age 2). Growth appears to be good considering relatively high densities of walleye.

Northern pike catches were again low in 2023 and similar to historic catches in Two Island. This is below average for similar area lakes. Northern pike ranged between 9.2 and 27.0 inches with a mean length of 19.4 inches. Northern pike might not be a targeted fish in Two Island but will provide additional action for multi species anglers.

Bluegill catch rates were slightly higher than the 2016 survey and above average for similar area lakes. Bluegill sizes ranged from 3.7 to 9.5 inches with a mean length of 5.2 inches. Two Island continues to support a fishable bluegill population with some large sized fish, which is relatively rare for the Grand Marais area.

The white sucker catch was one of the higher values recorded in recent years but remain below average for similar area lakes.

Cook County, Minnesota lakes continue to be susceptible to aquatic invasive species introductions. Invasive species have the potential to significantly alter fish communities and overall lake health. Anglers should clean watercraft and fishing gear, drain all water, and dispose of unused bait in the trash to prevent accidental introductions.

Are there any state parks near Two Island Lake?