What to expect at George Lake

George Lake sits in north-central Minnesota near the town of Ely, in the heart of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). The lake holds walleye, northern pike, and lake trout, with walleye being the primary draw for most anglers. The water is clear and moderately deep, typical of the region's glacial lakes. Access is by portage only — there is no road to the shoreline — which means the lake stays less crowded than waters you can reach by vehicle.

The lake spans roughly 1,200 acres and connects to other BWCAW lakes through established portage routes. Most anglers fish it as part of a multi-lake trip rather than as a day destination. The nearest town with lodging and supplies is Ely, about 20 miles south. If you are planning a trip here, expect to spend at least two days on the water and to carry your gear over established portage trails.

Key Takeaways

  • George Lake requires a BWCAW entry permit, which you obtain through the Superior National Forest reservation system and must secure weeks or months in advance during peak season.
  • Access is by portage from Fall Lake or other connecting waters; there is no road access or boat launch on George Lake itself.
  • Walleye fishing peaks in spring (May through early June) and fall (September through October), with summer requiring deeper presentations and night fishing.
  • The lake is catch-and-release only for walleye under 15 inches; walleye 15 inches and larger may be kept under Minnesota's statewide regulations.
  • A Minnesota fishing license is required, and you must carry it with you on the water.

Entry permits and reservation timing

Fishing George Lake requires a BWCAW entry permit, which is managed by the Superior National Forest. Permits are issued through the reservation system at recreation.gov or by calling the Superior National Forest Reservation Center. You must reserve a specific entry point, entry date, and number of people. George Lake is accessed through entry point 24 (Fall Lake), entry point 25 (Little Vermilion Lake), or entry point 26 (Moose Lake), depending on your route.

Permits are released 90 days in advance, and popular entry points fill quickly during May through September. If your preferred dates are booked, you can check the cancellation list or try a different entry point that feeds into George Lake. Winter and early spring (November through April) have fewer restrictions, though ice-out timing varies. Call the reservation center at 1-877-550-6777 to confirm current availability and to understand which entry point best suits your planned route.

The permit itself is free, but you pay a reservation fee (currently around $6 per person for advance reservations). Once you have the permit, you are responsible for reaching the entry point on your own and beginning your trip on the date specified.

How to reach George Lake by portage

The most common route to George Lake is from Fall Lake, which has a public access point and parking lot near Ely. From Fall Lake, the portage to George Lake is approximately 1.5 miles and crosses one intermediate lake (Moose Lake). The portage trail is well-maintained and marked, but you will need to carry your canoe, gear, and food for the entire distance. Many anglers hire an outfitter in Ely to transport canoes and gear to the Fall Lake access point, which saves time and physical strain.

Alternative routes exist through Little Vermilion Lake or Moose Lake, but they involve longer portages or additional carries. The Fall Lake route is the most direct for George Lake specifically. Portage distances in the BWCAW are measured in rods (a rod equals 16.5 feet), and the Superior National Forest publishes detailed portage maps showing exact distances and difficulty ratings. Download the map from the Superior National Forest website before your trip.

If you do not own a canoe or prefer not to transport one, outfitters in Ely rent canoes, paddles, life jackets, and camping gear. Expect to pay $40 to $80 per day for a canoe rental, depending on the outfitter and season. Reservations are strongly recommended during summer months.

Walleye and pike fishing seasons and techniques

Walleye fishing on George Lake is best in spring (May through early June) and fall (September through October). During these periods, walleye move into shallower water and feed actively. In spring, fish the transition zones between deep and shallow water using live bait (shiners or minnows) on jigs, or cast crankbaits that mimic baitfish. Early morning and late evening produce the most strikes.

Summer walleye (July and August) retreat to deeper water and are most active at night. If you fish during summer, plan to fish after dark using live bait on jigs in 20 to 35 feet of water, or troll crankbaits over the deeper basins. Many anglers find summer fishing less productive on George Lake and prefer to visit in spring or fall.

Northern pike are present year-round and are less seasonal than walleye. Pike respond to larger baits and lures, including 4- to 6-inch shiners, spinnerbaits, and large crankbaits. Fish pike in the weed beds and along shoreline structure. Pike fishing is often good when walleye fishing is slow, making it a useful backup target.

Regulations and catch limits

George Lake falls under Minnesota's statewide fishing regulations. Walleye under 15 inches must be released immediately. Walleye 15 inches and larger may be kept, with a daily limit of six fish (combined with other species in the pike family). Northern pike have a daily limit of three fish, with a minimum size of 24 inches for the first two fish and no size restriction on the third.

Lake trout, if present in your catch, must be released. A valid Minnesota fishing license is required for anyone 16 years or older. Licenses are available online through the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources website, at sporting goods retailers, or through outfitters in Ely. A three-day license costs less than a full-year license and is useful if you are planning a short trip.

Catch-and-release is encouraged on George Lake to preserve the walleye population. If you do keep fish, clean them on shore away from the water and pack out all waste. Leave no fish parts or cleaning debris in the lake.

Camping and overnight logistics

George Lake has established campsites managed by the Superior National Forest. Sites are first-come, first-served once you are in the BWCAW, though popular sites fill quickly during peak season. Each site has a fire ring, tent pad, and latrine. You must camp only at designated sites; dispersed camping is not permitted.

Bring a camp stove or plan to cook over a fire using only dead and downed wood. All food, trash, and scented items must be stored in bear-proof containers or hung from a rope between trees to prevent wildlife access. Water from the lake is safe to drink after filtering or boiling. Treat all water before drinking to prevent giardia and other waterborne pathogens.

Weather in the BWCAW can change rapidly. Pack a three-season tent, warm layers, rain gear, and a headlamp. Bugs (mosquitoes and blackflies) are heaviest in June and July; bring insect repellent and consider a head net. The season runs from May through September, with the best conditions typically in May, September, and early October.

Outfitters and gear rental in Ely

Ely has several established outfitters that rent canoes, camping gear, and fishing equipment. Major outfitters include Boundary Waters Outfitters, Ely Outfitting Company, and Wilderness Outfitters. All offer canoe rentals, portage packs, sleeping bags, tents, and cooking gear. Many also offer guided trips if you prefer to fish with an experienced local angler.

Outfitters can also arrange shuttle services from Ely to the Fall Lake access point, saving you a long drive with a loaded vehicle. Rental rates vary by outfitter and season, but expect to pay $50 to $150 per day for a complete camping and fishing package. Book at least two weeks in advance during summer; six to eight weeks is safer for July and August trips.

Ely also has grocery stores, gas stations, and restaurants. Stock up on food and supplies before heading to the access point, as there are no services once you enter the BWCAW. Many anglers buy pre-packaged camping meals to reduce weight and cooking time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a guide to fish George Lake?

No, a guide is not required. If you have canoe experience and are comfortable reading maps and navigating portages, you can fish George Lake on your own. However, a guide can improve your catch rate and handle navigation, leaving you to focus on fishing. Guides also know current conditions and where fish are holding. Hiring a guide costs $300 to $500 per day plus meals.

What is the best time of year to fish George Lake?

May through early June and September through October offer the most consistent walleye fishing and the most comfortable weather. Summer (July and August) is busier and requires night fishing for walleye. Spring and fall have fewer bugs, cooler temperatures, and more active fish. Winter is possible but requires ice-fishing experience and specialized gear.

Can I fish George Lake as a day trip from Ely?

Technically yes, but it is not practical. The portage from Fall Lake to George Lake takes 1.5 to 2 hours each way, leaving only a few hours to fish. Most anglers plan at least two days on the water. If you want a shorter trip, consider lakes closer to Ely that have road access, such as Fall Lake itself or Moose Lake.

What if I do not have a canoe or camping gear?

Rent everything from an outfitter in Ely. Outfitters provide canoes, paddles, life jackets, tents, sleeping bags, cooking gear, and portage packs. You bring only personal items like clothing, toiletries, and a fishing license. Rental packages typically cost $100 to $200 per person per day, depending on what you rent and the outfitter.

Are there fish in George Lake year-round?

Yes, walleye and pike are present year-round. Winter fishing requires ice-fishing equipment and experience with safe ice practices. Ice typically forms in November and breaks up in April, but timing varies. Spring and fall offer the easiest and most productive fishing without the specialized gear and hazards of winter.