What Fish Species Are in Pelican Lake?
Walleye
The spring opener kicks off one of the most popular times to fish walleye, and walleye are one of the main reasons anglers plan trips up here. May and June offer especially strong action as the fish move into accessible areas to actively feed.
Early fall can also be productive (particularly late September and early October), when cooling water improves the walleye bite again.
Northern Pike
Another dependable game fish at Pelican Lake, northern pike are aggressive predators that are a great fit for anglers seeking steady action and larger fish. Around here, pike can be productive in spring and summer, especially around shallow cover, emerging weeds, and bays.
Fishermen and trip-goers looking to do some mixed-species fishing will appreciate northern pike, as it is relatively catchable even when conditions are not ideal.
Smallmouth Bass
With hard strikes and wild fights, smallmouth bass bring a strong sport-fishing component to Pelican Lake. Fishing for bass can be excellent through spring and summer, though the bite will carry well into fall as fish continue feeding before winter.
During spring, you can find bass in shallower areas. When summer comes, topwater and surface lures can be effective. Plan to fish smallmouth bass during the fall if you’re looking for a quieter time on the water.
Largemouth Bass
Smallmouth bass may get more attention in Minnesota waters, while largemouths bring a different style of fishing to the lake that gives bass-focused visitors more variety. Warm-weather fishing is often the best fit for largemouth.
So you’ll find more success during the summertime, where largemouth travel among lily pads, weedlines, and generally shallower cover. Largemouth bass can be especially appealing to family groups or casual anglers due to the straightforward techniques required to wrangle one in.
Panfish: Crappie, Bluegill, & Perch
Panfish are an accessible group of species ideal for dock fishing and short boat outings. For trips that include kids or less experienced anglers, panfish help make the lake more approachable and rewarding.
You can have good panfish opportunities on Pelican Lake during most months from mid-spring through the end of Summer. That largely includes crappie and, later in the year, bluegill and perch.
Seasonal Fishing Calendar: When to Fish Pelican Lake
Minnesota Fishing License & Pelican Lake Fishing Regulations
In terms of licenses, Pelican Lake fishing follows standard prices and regulations set by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for the Northeast Zone. Be sure to check these regulations before you take your trip, as restrictions often change from year to year.
- Walleye: Possession limit is typically six fish, with only one over 20 inches allowed.
- Bass (largemouth and smallmouth): Protected slot limit. Fish between 14-20 inches must be released. Only one over 20 inches permitted.
- General rules: Seasons, limits, and licensing requirements follow statewide MN DNR guidelines for inland waters.
Why are there fishing regulations in Minnesota and on Pelican Lake? Regulations are intended to maintain healthy fish populations while preserving fishing quality for future seasons.
Getting on the Water: Lake Access & Boat Rentals
For lake access, Pelican Lake provides practical access for visitors. You can find public access points on the east side of the lake. One access is located on Orr Bay and the other near Bessette Point. When it comes to boat rentals, contact a local lodge or resort for information. Several local campgrounds and resorts offer this service.
Hire a Local Fishing Guide
Pelican Lake is as adventurous as you want it to be, especially if you’re looking to spruce up your fish species variety. For beginners, a local guide can be a smart choice to shorten the learning curve, especially for walleye-focused trips.
Even experienced anglers will benefit from a guide, as Pelican Lake guides can help visitors match the lake’s seasonal patterns to the right locations and presentations.
Plan Your Pelican Lake Fishing Trip
Once you’ve decided Pelican Lake is the right fit, the next step is turning your trip into a full North Woods experience.
The area around Orr offers a range of local resorts, cabins, and lodges that put you right on the water. Local businesses also provide gear rentals, bait shops, and guided trips to help you make the most of your time.