Crab Lake

How big is Crab Lake?

How deep is Crab Lake?

What kind of fish can you catch in Crab Lake?

Are there places to eat and drink near Crab Lake?

Crab Lake lies in the headwaters of the Rainy River watershed, draining to that system via an unnamed stream to Gunflint Lake, then to Saganaga Lake via the Granite River. It is located approximately 38 miles north of Grand Marais and public access is through a channel on the east end of Loon Lake, where a public boat landing is on the northwestern corner of the lake. Crab Lake is currently managed for northern pike and walleye. The 2023 survey was conducted to evaluate the survival and growth of the northern pike and walleye population.

The walleye catch in the 2023 survey was very low and fell below average for similar lakes in the area. Only two good sized walleye were captured at 16.8 and 21.4 inches. Both walleye appear to be naturally reproduced 4 year olds from the 2019 year class. Crab Lake has not supported a good walleye fishery in a very long time and even with many years of fry stocking have not resulted in any major improvements to the fishery. Walleye have persisted but may no longer be considered a managed species in Crab Lake.

Northern pike abundance was good and about average for Crab Lake, and above average for similar lakes in the area. Northern pike ranged from 11.3 to 27.8 inches with a mean length of 21.3 inches. Crab continues to support a relatively high density northern pike population that may provide good action for anglers, especially for fish larger than 25 inches.

Low numbers of bluegill, pumpkinseed, and rock bass were collected in the survey. None were greater than 7 inches and would not provide any significant angling opportunities. Cisco were collected in low numbers, but likely provide high quality forage for northern pike within the lake.

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.