Fish
Fish of the St. Louis River
The St. Louis River supports one of the most diverse warmwater fish communities in the Great Lakes region, with more than 45 native species thriving in its waters and estuary.
Walleye are often considered the most sought‑after fish on the river. These prized fish spend much of the year in Lake Superior but return to the river each spring to spawn, providing excellent fishing from late April through summer and again in the fall as they follow baitfish runs.
Year‑round residents include other game fish like muskellunge, northern pike, and smallmouth bass, in addition to populations of crappies, yellow perch, and bullheads.
In addition to the many ‘sportsfish’ mentioned about, the estuary also host many other species, including channel catfish, suckers, redhorse, various minnows and shiners, and lake sturgeon—a native species undergoing restoration efforts after historical declines.
If you plan to fish…
Before heading out, check current fishing regulations and advisories for the St. Louis River from the Minnesota and Wisconsin DNR. Fishing seasons, limits, closures, advisories, and safety information can vary by species and location.
Minnesota DNR – Border Waters Fishing Regulations: dnr.state.mn.us/regulations/fishing/index.html
Wisconsin DNR – St. Louis River Fishing: dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/Fishing/
Fish Consumption Advisories – MN & WI: health.state.mn.us/communities/environment/fish
