Binagami Lake

How big is Binagami Lake?

How deep is Binagami Lake?

What kind of fish can you catch in Binagami Lake?

What are the closest cities to Binagami Lake?

Are there boat launches on Binagami Lake?

Are there places to eat and drink near Binagami Lake?

Binagami Lake is a 117-acre lake north of Grand Marais and public access is through a carry-in landing on the northeast shore. Current managed species in Binagami include walleye and bluegill. The 2023 standard survey was conducted to evaluate the walleye and bluegill populations in the lake and determine whether additional stocking is necessary to meet the current management goals.

Bluegill were not captured in the trap nets or gill nets in the 2023 standard lake survey and may indicate that the population has collapsed. Initial survey results suggest that continued supplemental stocking may be needed to support the bluegill population.

Walleye abundance in 2023 was very high in Binagami Lake for both the gill net and trap net sets. Walleye captured ranged from 6.1 to 18.9 inches with a mean length of 14.7 inches. Aging results indicated a total of 8 naturally reproduced year classes present with individuals as old as 9 present in the population. Back calculated growth rates suggest relatively steady growth until about 15 inches and then slow growth from there on. High competition with other fish and lack of forage for walleye may be limiting growth. Despite slow growth and lack of large fish the walleye fishery provides excellent angling opportunities.

Rock bass continued to be present in Binagami Lake but at low levels in both the gill nets and trap nets. No rock bass greater than 7.0 inches were found. White sucker abundance was similar to previous years and were relatively large ranging from 16.3 to 19.3 inches. White suckers may compete with walleye for available forage. To date no northern pike, yellow perch, or smallmouth bass have been found in this lake. This is unusual given how prevalent those species are in other local 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 Binagami Lake?