Each year, fisheries staff from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Grand Marais area office conducts fisheries surveys and assessments to monitor changes in fish populations, and to evaluate management strategies.
Survey methods and their frequency vary based on the types of information needed to make management decisions for individual lakes and streams. Large lakes with heavy use are surveyed more frequently than small, remote lakes. Stocked lakes are also sampled more often to better assess stocking success.
Large trout streams are surveyed more frequently than small trout streams or warm-water streams. Most streams are surveyed using backpack electrofishing gear, while most lakes are surveyed using gill nets and trap nets.
Survey results are reviewed and incorporated into individual lake and stream management plans. Plans are typically revised every six to 10 years and include a public comment period. All current lake and stream management plans for the Grand Marais area are available at the area office, and copies can be provided upon request. Public comments and suggestions for management of these waters are welcomed at any time.
Dates are subject to change and extreme weather conditions. The number of lakes and streams scheduled for survey in 2019 has been reduced due to cuts in staff and funding, and it is likely that some of the surveys listed below may not be completed. Lakes and streams may be added or dropped, and the timing and duration of some surveys may change.
Questions and general information about area lakes and streams can be addressed to the DNR’s Grand Marais area fisheries office at 1356 Highway 61 E., Grand Marais, MN 55604, or by calling 218-387-6021, or emailing grandmarais.fisheries@state. mn.us
Preliminary results for many of the surveys should be available in the fall of 2019. Final reports will be completed by the spring of 2020. Final lake survey results will be available online at www.mndnr.gov/lakefind or from the Grand Marais area fisheries office.
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