Bearskin Lake

How big is Bearskin Lake?

How deep is Bearskin Lake?

What kind of fish can you catch in Bearskin Lake?

Are there boat launches on Bearskin Lake?

Are there places to eat and drink near Bearskin Lake?

West Bearskin Lake is a 509-acre lake located 23 miles northwest of Grand Marais with a public access boat launch on the east shore of the lake and carry-in portage landing along the south shore. Primary and secondary management species in West Bearskin Lake are lake trout and smallmouth bass. The 2023 standard lake survey was conducted to monitor the fish community in West Bearskin, record current limnological conditions, and evaluate management goals for lake trout and smallmouth bass populations.

Lake trout abundance was slightly below average but within the normal range West Bearskin Lake. Catch rates continued to meet management goals. Lake trout ranged from 11.7 to 26.5 inches in length. Aging data obtained from captured lake trout indicated fish were from 7 different naturally reproduced year classes and up to 13 years old. No fish were found from the last stocking event in 2009. The 2023 survey results suggest that West Bearskin Lake continues to support a relatively healthy naturally reproducing lake trout population. Naturally reproducing lake trout populations are unique in Minnesota lakes, anglers targeting lake trout should consider catch and release practices with safe handling procedures.

Smallmouth bass abundance was high in West Bearskin Lake and above average for similar lakes in the area. Smallmouth bass management goals were met. Fish ranged from 5.9 to 17.4 inches with a mean length of 10.8 inches. West Bearskin Lake should provide good opportunities for anglers looking to target smallmouth bass in both quality and quantity.

Northern pike abundance was well above average for similar lakes and in the upper range for West Bearskin Lake. Northern pike captured in the survey ranged from 16.6 to 35.2 inches with a mean length of 23.1 inches. West Bearskin provides anglers the opportunity of catching memorable sized (> 34 inches) fish.

Bluegill, green sunfish, and yellow perch relative abundances in trap nets were low and similar to historical values. However, yellow perch catch rates in gill net sets were high. None of these fish were found larger than 7 inches and would not be of interest to anglers. Rainbow smelt abundance was down from the previous two surveys, but comparable to historic catches. Smelt can provide forage for lake trout, but may also compete with young lake trout, and may prey directly on larval fish.

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 Bearskin Lake?