Pit

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Pit Lake is a small, 26 acre lake that lies within the Lake Superior North watershed, draining to Lake Superior via Two Island, Dick, and McDonald Lakes, McDonald Creek, and the Cascade River. It is approximately 11 miles north of Grand Marais and public access is through a carry-in/earthen launch on the western side of the lake. Pit Lake is one of very few lakes in this area managed for panfish (bluegill). The 2023 standard survey was conducted to evaluate the fish community and monitor the survival and growth of the bluegill and northern pike populations.

Bluegill catch rates the lowest it has been since the 2004 survey and is below average for similar area lakes. Only a few bluegill were captured but were good sized with one fish 9 inches in length. Aging results indicated the presence of 3 naturally reproduced year classes in 2016, 2017, and 2020. Growth rates were slightly above average. The lack of small bluegill in the 0.25 inch trap nets indicate poor natural recruitment in recent years.

The northern pike gill net catch met the current management goal and was within the normal range for similar area lakes. Northern pike ranged from 10.9 to 26.2 inches with a mean length of 18.5 inches. Aging results found 4 naturally reproduced year classes in the population with the oldest individual being 6 years old. Growth rates are average for northern pike populations in the area. Overall, northern pike were primarily small but there were a few individuals over 25 inches that may interest some anglers.

Yellow perch catches in the trap nets were the highest recorded since 1999 and was above average for similar area lakes. Many age 1 yellow perch were also captured in the 0.25 inch trap nets, indicating that natural reproduction is strong. Size structure was good with yellow perch up to 9 inches. The combination of high abundance and good sized yellow perch may interest anglers looking to target yellow perch.

Walleye are rare in Pit Lake and this was the first time they were sampled since the 2006 survey. The four walleye captured were about 14 inches long and were two year old fish from the 2021 year class. Walleye likely came from Two Island Lake when very young and grew fast on the abundant forage in Pit Lake.

Other species captured within the 0.25 trap nets include blacknose shiner, central mudminnow, golden shiner, pumpkinseed and white sucker. The diversity and large number of fish collected indicate Pit Lake has a thriving minnow community that should provide excellent forage for piscivores.

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 Pit?