Holly Lake

How big is Holly Lake?

How deep is Holly Lake?

What kind of fish can you catch in Holly Lake?

What are the closest cities to Holly Lake?

Are there boat launches on Holly Lake?

Are there places to eat and drink near Holly Lake?

Holly is 75-acre lake located about 11 miles north of Lutsen. Public access is through a boat landing on the southeast bay of the lake. Holly has historically been managed for walleye with supplemental stocking since the 1970s. Walleye stocking was discontinued in 2018 after survey results showed a healthy naturally reproducing population. Primary and secondary management species are walleye and northern pike. The 2023 standard survey of Holly Lake was conducted to evaluate the walleye and northern pike populations in the lake.

Walleye catch rates in both gill nets and trap nets are above average when compared to similar lakes in the area, and slightly higher than in the last two surveys for Holly Lake. Size structure of the walleye captured ranged from 3.2 to 23.7 inches with a mean of around 14.6 inches. Both the abundance and size goals for walleye were met in the 2023 survey. Aging results indicated the presence of 8 year classes with 6 of them appearing to be naturally reproduced. The oldest individual sampled was 12 years old. Evidence of continued naturally reproduction is a good sign for the walleye population in Holly Lake. Growth appeared to be slightly above average for area lakes.

The catch of northern pike in the gill nets and standard trap nets are above average when compared to similar lakes in the area, and comparable to the previous two surveys in Holly Lake. Size structure of the northern pike captured ranged from 10.9 to 30.9 inches with a mean length of 22.9 inches. Both the abundance and size goals for northern pike were met in this survey. Anglers looking to target northern pike may find good action with the presence of some larger individuals.

Yellow perch abundance was higher than the previous survey but still lower than historical values in Holly Lake. Even with the thriving walleye and northern pike populations, the yellow perch catch is above average for similar area lakes. Yellow perch ranged from 5.4 inches to 10.9 inches with a mean length of 6.3 inches. The prevalence and size of yellow perch in Holly Lake not only make great forage for piscivores predator populations but may also be of interest to anglers.

White sucker abundance was higher than previous two surveys but remains similar to historical values recorded. Pumpkinseed and golden shiner were additional species captured in the 0.25-inch trap nets in smaller numbers.

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 Holly Lake?