Lake Superior Target Species

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 Lake trout are native to the Great Lakes and were historically the top predator in the Lake Superior fish community. They are well adapted to these cold, clear, infertile waters. Once represented by many strains, lake trout have been reduced to two major strains in Minnesota water: Lean Lake Trout, and Siscowets. The size can range from 2 lbs. average all the way to a 40 lbs. trophy. Lake Trout is the most common catch in our area and are targeted year round.

  The largest salmon is the Chinook Salmon, also called King salmon, which grows to over 10 pounds in Lake Superior, though most catches are around 3 to 4 pounds. These fish are identified by the black in the gums of their mouth. Once they reach full maturity they make their way up the river they were born in to spawn and then die naturally.  This species is targeted mostly during the spring and summer months. These great tasting fish are always a BIG bonus to hook into and when you do, BUCKLE UP because they are known to  put up a wild fight! 

Coho salmon are also known as "Lake Superior Candy" as they are smaller, averaging about 1.5 to 3 pounds. Cohos are normally present in our area from winter time (December) to early summer (June). These fish are identified by the white in the gums of their mouth.  Once they reach full maturity they make their way up the river they were born in to spawn and then die naturally.

Mostly present in the St. Louis River system, the walleye spawn up river in the spring and then work their way down river and follow the bait fish out into Lake Superior. Out in the lake the size will range from 14" up to 30"+. When the water temperatures are right, the walleye are a fun treat to catch mixed with the other species. Ask about Wisconsin south shore walleye targeted trips.

The rainbow trout are also known as Steelhead or Kamloops and are exotic to the Great Lakes area.  They were originally planted into our water systems. These beautiful fish roam all over the lake and cannot be kept unless the adipose fin is clipped. These fish are mostly targeted in the river systems when they get ready to spawn. Unlike salmon, they can spawn multiple times and do not die unless from natural causes. Rainbow trout size ranges from 3 lbs. to 15 lbs.

 Brown trout are exotic to the Great Lakes area and were originally planted into our water systems.  These beautiful patterned fish are concentrated on the south shores of Lake Superior but do make their way into our waters. Brown trout size ranges from 3 lbs. to 20 lbs.