The beauty of Minnesota’s north woods is not restricted to one or two seasons. At Pelican Lake near Orr, MN, you might enjoy a quiet January trip ice fishing or compete in an angling tournament in late May.
Regardless of when you come, you’ll appreciate what the lake has to offer.
Visitors from all over come here for family trips, year-round fishing, and to seek a quiet, restful nature retreat. Every season brings its own unique trip experience. Looking to plan your trip to Pelican Lake?
Check out the seasonal guide below to make the most of your time here.
Month-by-Month Guide
January - February
Temperature: Highs from 15°F to 22°F, lows from -10°F to -5°F (These averages may vary. Temperatures have been known to get as low as -48 degrees).
Lake Condition: Ice-covered, typically safe for travel, but visitors should always check with local guides beforehand, water below the ice is near freezing
The perfect months for ice fishing. While these are the coldest months of the year, spending quality time in the fish house with some friends or family makes it all worth it.
March - April
Temperature: Highs from 35°F to 51°F, lows from 8°F to 25°F
Lake Condition: Ice often remains in March and is almost gone by late April
March is great to experience some warmer weather while still participating in winter activities. April, on the other hand, will give you some blooming trees and opportunities for outdoor fun.
May
Temperature: Highs around 65°F, lows around 35°F
Lake Condition: Open water with warming surface temperatures (40°F to 50°F)
Fishing season for walleye and pike starts! Look out for an annual walleye or bass tournament, and be sure to get your fishing license if you haven’t already.
June
Temperature: Highs around 71°F, lows around 44°F
Lake Condition: Water warms substantially, getting to around 60°F
Pleasant conditions for fishing, boating, and the start of swimming season. June is a great sweet spot for family-friendly activities.
July - August
Temperature: Highs from low to mid 80°F, lows from 48°F to 50°F
Lake Condition: Warmest months of the year for the lake and the peak season for swimming and recreational boating
This is when you’ll see the peak of crowds traveling to experience the lake, though you’ll never feel overcrowded. Things will ramp down around August, however, and that’s when you can enjoy some quiet and cooler temperatures.
September
Temperature: Highs around 66°F, lows around 42°F
Lake Condition: Water begins to cool, but fall fishing ramps up and boating remains a popular activity
September is when you can participate in the Pelican Lake bass tournament. This is also a time with potential opportunities to see some northern lights. Later in the month, experience the beauty of the north woods fall colors.
October - November
Temperature: Highs from 34°F to 51°F, lows from 18°F to 30°F
Lake Condition: Water drops into the 40s°F and 50s°F, ice may begin to form in late November
This is when the lake is at its quietest for visitors. Enjoy a restful evening by a fireplace with the window cracked, breathing in the crisp autumn air. Afternoon walks during this time are especially pleasant.
December
Temperature: Highs around 19°F, lows around -1°F
Lake Condition: Ice cover typically comes in full force, and the water returns to near freezing.
- Note: early season ice thickness can vary across the lake and may be thinner in some areas
Visitors and residents begin preparing for ice fishing, and they are often on the ice sometime in December, depending on ice thickness.
Best Time for Fishing on Pelican Lake
Walleye
Experience the best walleye during the spring opener & late fall patterns, with May and June being the best time. Late September and early October can be excellent as well.
Bass
Bass fishing is rather excellent throughout the spring and summer on Pelican Lake. Shallow fish during the spring, and in the summer, topwater and surface lures are best for bass. The great bass fishing then continues into fall, when the fish try to bulk up for winter.
Panfish/Crappie
Panfish are a great time, especially for kids tossing a line right off the dock. The best months for crappie fishing are May, June, and September. You’ll see some great bluegill fishing around July and August.
Ice Fishing
Ice fishing ramps up in December on Pelican Lake and peaks between January and February. Fish species will vary, but you’ll often come across walleye, northern pike, and bass when out on the ice.
When Is the Best Time for Families & Lake Vacations?
While you can’t go wrong during other times of the year, July through August will bring the most opportunities for a family vacation. The water is clear, the weather is great, and the company is even better.
This is the best time of year for swimming and water sports, and also offers a great variety of fishing. Local towns like Orr often have family-friendly events and a range of activities this time of year. Boat rentals are also available!
What to Expect: Weather, Bugs, Water
- Temperature: Like many areas of northern Minnesota, temperatures vary widely with the season. Winter will see lows in the -10s°F, while summer can see 70s and 80s°F.
- Storms: There is no storm season to avoid around Pelican Lake. Storms may produce throughout the spring and summer, with a little more activity around late June and July.
- Bugs: Mosquitos and other bugs reach their peak around June, but tend to disappear by August.
- Ice in/Ice-out: Ice usually forms in December and can stay late into April. The safest time for ice travel is from late December to early April.
- Water peak temperature: Water on the lake will reach around 70°F in June and remain there until Labor Day.
Quick Recommendations
- Best overall time for a visit: July or August
- Best time for a fishing trip: May–June or September
- Best time for family trip: July or August
- Best time for a quiet, scenic trip: April, September, or October. Late September is usually best for fall colors and northern lights.
- Best time for winter experience: January for ice fishing.