The BWCA has world class fishing. With 1,000 lakes and very light fishing pressure, the fishing opportunities are virtually limitless!

What species’ of fish will I catch?

Smallmouth Bass – aka Smallies or Bronzebacks

Average size: 15” – 18” and 2 - 3 pounds

Size on the better days: 19” - 22” and 5+ pounds

Number of fish caught /day: 15 – 25/day per person.

Strategy: my favorite way is using surface lures at dawn and dusk or you can always use a leech and bobber, both deadly tactics.

Northern Pike – aka Northerns, Nortons or Snakes

Average size: 25” - 34”

Size on the better days: 40”+  

Strategy: These can be caught all day using just about anything.  My favorite strategy is to use a floating Rapala or a Daredevil. The state record for Northern Pike was taken in the BWCA.

Walleye – aka Wallies, Eyes and Marble Eyes

Average size: 14” - 20” perfect for eating. We will eat walleyes just about everyday.

Strategy: Trolling with Rapalas, Jigging and once again using a leech and slip bobber is always deadly.

Of course the average caught per day is entirely up to the experience of the fisherperson.  But wilderness Journey will put you on the fish.  Due to lack of ice and a refrigeration system, we do encourage catch and release. We will eat fish just about everyday and a great replica of your trophy can be made from a good photo and a measurement. 

When is the best time of the year to fish in the BWCA?