What You'll Find at Ely Lake

Ely Lake is a 1,200-acre lake in northeastern Minnesota, about 15 miles south of the town of Ely. The lake sits within the Superior National Forest and serves as a gateway to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). It holds walleye, northern pike, and lake trout, with walleye being the primary draw for most anglers. The lake is accessible by road and boat launch, making it a practical choice for anglers who want serious fishing without committing to a full backcountry canoe trip.

Ely Lake's depth and structure — rocky points, drop-offs, and weed beds — support a healthy walleye population. Pike fishing is also consistent, particularly in spring and fall. Lake trout are present but less commonly targeted by shore and boat anglers. The lake's location near Ely means you have lodging, tackle shops, and restaurants within a short drive, unlike many remote Minnesota lakes.

Key Takeaways

  • Walleye are the primary species, with best results in spring (May through early June) and fall (September through October) using live bait or crankbaits near drop-offs and rocky structure.
  • Northern pike fishing is strong year-round, especially in shallow bays and weed beds during spring and fall.
  • The public boat launch is located on the north shore near the town of Ely, with parking and facilities available.
  • Minnesota fishing regulations apply: walleye have a 15-inch minimum size limit and a daily bag limit of four fish; pike have a 24-inch minimum and a daily bag limit of one fish.
  • A Minnesota fishing license is required for all anglers 16 and older, and the BWCAW permit system does not apply to Ely Lake itself, only to canoe routes within the wilderness area.

Seasons and Best Times to Fish

Spring (May through early June) is the strongest season for walleye on Ely Lake. Fish move shallow to spawn and feed aggressively after winter. Live bait — shiners, chubs, or crawfish — fished on slip sinker rigs near rocky points and shallow drop-offs produces consistent results. Early morning and evening are most productive, though overcast days often fish well throughout the day.

Fall (September through October) is the second-best window. Walleye move back to deeper structure as water cools, but feeding intensity increases. Crankbaits and jigs work well during this period. Pike fishing peaks in both spring and fall, when they hunt in shallower water. Summer is slower for walleye but can still produce fish in early morning on deep structure or at night. Winter ice fishing is possible but requires checking current ice conditions with local sources before heading out.

How to Reach Ely Lake and Where to Launch

Ely Lake is accessed via Minnesota State Highway 169, which runs through the town of Ely. From Ely, take Highway 169 south approximately 15 miles. The public boat launch is located on the north shore and is clearly marked. The launch has a paved ramp, parking lot, and vault toilets. There is no fee to use the launch, though parking may fill on weekends during peak season.

The launch accommodates both trailers and hand-carry boats. If you do not have your own boat, several outfitters in Ely rent boats and motors by the day or week. These outfitters can also provide current information on water conditions, fish location, and recent catches. The drive from Ely to the launch takes about 20 to 30 minutes depending on which part of town you start from.

Regulations and Licensing Requirements

All anglers 16 and older must carry a valid Minnesota fishing license. Licenses are available online through the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MNDNR) website, by phone, or at tackle shops and sporting goods stores in Ely. A three-day license is available if you are visiting briefly; annual licenses are also sold.

Walleye on Ely Lake have a 15-inch minimum size limit and a daily bag limit of four fish. Northern pike have a 24-inch minimum size limit and a daily bag limit of one fish. Lake trout have a 15-inch minimum and a daily bag limit of two fish. These regulations are current but do change; check the MNDNR website or the current Minnesota fishing regulations pamphlet before you fish. The BWCAW permit system applies only to canoe routes within the wilderness area itself, not to Ely Lake.

Tackle and Techniques for Walleye and Pike

For walleye, live bait is the most reliable approach. Rig a live shiner or chub on a slip sinker rig with a 2/0 to 3/0 hook, and fish near rocky points, drop-offs, and the edges of weed beds. Cast and retrieve slowly, or anchor and let the current work the bait. Jigs tipped with live minnows or soft plastics also work, particularly in fall. Crankbaits in natural colors (perch, shad patterns) are effective when walleye are active.

Pike respond to larger baits and lures. Live bait rigs with 6- to 8-inch shiners or chubs work well, as do large crankbaits and spinnerbaits. Pike often hunt in shallow bays and weed beds, so focus your effort there in spring and fall. Use a steel leader or heavy fluorocarbon to prevent bite-offs. Casting along weed edges and around submerged logs produces consistent results.

Lodging and Services in Ely

The town of Ely has motels, resorts, and cabin rentals ranging from budget to upscale. Several resorts on or near Ely Lake offer waterfront lodging and boat access. Tackle shops in Ely stock live bait, lures, and local information. The Ely Chamber of Commerce website lists current lodging and outfitter options. Restaurants and grocery stores are available in town, so you can plan meals before or after fishing.

If you plan to fish the BWCAW canoe routes after Ely Lake, outfitters in Ely can arrange permits, provide canoe and camping gear rentals, and shuttle you to entry points. Many anglers combine a day or two on Ely Lake with a backcountry canoe trip, using Ely as a base for resupply and rest.

What Makes Ely Lake Different from Other Minnesota Lakes

Ely Lake's main advantage is accessibility combined with quality fishing. Unlike many remote Minnesota lakes, it has a public launch, nearby lodging, and tackle shops — but it is not heavily pressured like lakes closer to the Twin Cities. The lake's rocky structure and depth support healthy fish populations, and the walleye fishing is consistent enough to justify a dedicated trip.

The lake also sits at the edge of the BWCAW, so it appeals to anglers who want to fish a road-accessible lake but are curious about backcountry fishing. Many visitors fish Ely Lake for a day or two, then rent a canoe and explore the wilderness routes. This flexibility makes Ely Lake a practical choice for a long weekend or a week-long fishing trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best bait for walleye on Ely Lake?

Live shiners and chubs are most reliable, fished on slip sinker rigs near drop-offs and rocky structure. Crawfish also work well. In fall, jigs tipped with soft plastics or live minnows are effective. Check with local tackle shops in Ely for what bait is currently in stock and what other anglers have been catching.

Can I fish Ely Lake without a boat?

Yes, though access is limited. The north shore near the boat launch has some shoreline, but most productive water requires a boat. If you do not have your own, outfitters in Ely rent boats by the day. A canoe or kayak also works for exploring shallow bays and weed beds.

Do I need a BWCAW permit to fish Ely Lake?

No. The permit system applies only to canoe routes within the Boundary Waters Wilderness Area itself. Ely Lake is outside the wilderness boundary and requires only a Minnesota fishing license. If you plan to canoe into the BWCAW from Ely Lake, you will need a separate permit for that trip.

What is the water temperature in Ely Lake during summer?

Surface water typically reaches the mid-70s Fahrenheit in July and August. Walleye move deeper during summer heat, so focus on drop-offs and deeper structure. Early morning and evening fishing, or night fishing, often produces better results than midday.

Are there pike tournaments or fishing events on Ely Lake?

Local fishing clubs and outfitters occasionally organize events, but Ely Lake does not host major tournaments. Check with the Ely Chamber of Commerce or local tackle shops for current information on any organized fishing activities or guide services.