Lake Vermilion
St. Louis County, Minnesota
🌤️ Current Conditions
🏞️About Lake Vermilion
Lake Vermilion is one of Minnesota's most beautiful and productive fishing lakes. Its 40,557 acres and 365 islands create endless structure for walleye, smallmouth bass, and muskie. Clear water and dramatic underwater terrain make this a favorite for anglers who appreciate both scenic beauty and quality fishing.
⭐Why Fish Lake Vermilion?
- ✓Crystal clear water with excellent visibility
- ✓Strong walleye population with good size
- ✓Trophy smallmouth bass fishing on rock structure
- ✓Growing muskie population
- ✓365 islands to explore
Best for:
💡Local Tips for Lake Vermilion
- 1The clear water means light line and subtle presentations
- 2Smallmouth fishing on the rocky points is world-class
- 3Night fishing for walleye is very productive
- 4Learn the main lake reefs - they hold fish all season
- 5Tower and Soudan offer convenient access
🐟Fish Species
Based on DNR fish surveys, the following species have been documented in Lake Vermilion:
Walleye
Sander vitreus
Good population of eating-size walleye
Minnesota's state fish, prized for excellent table fare and sporting qualities.
Northern Pike
Esox lucius
Healthy pike population
Aggressive predator fish found throughout Minnesota waters.
Smallmouth Bass
Micropterus dolomieu
Excellent smallmouth bass fishing
Pound-for-pound one of the strongest fighting fish in Minnesota.
Muskellunge
Esox masquinongy
Trophy muskie potential
The fish of 10,000 casts - Minnesota's largest predator fish.
📋Fishing Regulations
Note: These are statewide regulations. Lake Vermilion may have special regulations. Always verify current rules at DNR Fishing Regulations.
| Species | Possession Limit | Size Limit | Season |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walleye | 6 | No minimum (special regulations on some waters) | May 10 - Feb 23 |
| Northern Pike | 3 | 24" minimum (some waters have slots) | May 10 - Feb 23 |
| Smallmouth Bass | 6 | 12" minimum | May 24 - Feb 23 (catch & release May 10-23) |
🗺️DNR Resources
📊Lake Details
- DOW Number
- 69052700
- Surface Area
- 40,557 acres
- Maximum Depth
- 76 feet
- Average Depth
- 28 feet
- County
- St. Louis
- Coordinates
- 47.9333°N, 92.2833°W
📍Location
Open in Google Maps →💡Quick Tips
- •Check ice conditions before winter fishing - never trust visual appearance alone
- •Early morning and late evening are typically best for walleye
- •Always have a valid Minnesota fishing license before fishing
- •Clean, drain, and dry boats to prevent invasive species spread