Biting right now — October
Water temperatures drop, concentrating baitfish. We find active salmon and trout along the North Shore. We target points and drop-offs where bait gathers.
Brown Trout
We find big brown trout staging near shore and in river mouths.
Coho Salmon
Coho salmon run up rivers to spawn and we target them in the tributaries.
Lake Whitefish
We find lake whitefish schooling on nearshore humps and points as they stage to spawn.
Lake Trout
Lake trout are found on offshore humps and points.
Every species, every month
We fish Lake Superior year-round. Different species peak at different times. We adapt our tactics to the conditions.
← Swipe the table to see every month →
| Species | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | OctNOW | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brown Trout | off | off | good | peak | peak | peak | good | good | peak | peak | slow | off |
| Coho Salmon | off | off | good | peak | peak | peak | good | good | peak | peak | slow | off |
| Lake Trout | good | good | peak | peak | peak | peak | peak | peak | peak | good | good | good |
| Lake Whitefish | off | off | good | peak | peak | peak | good | good | peak | peak | slow | off |
Fishing regulations, including seasons, size, and bag limits, can change. Always check with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources before harvesting any fish.
Month by month
What the water's doing, what's turned on, and which trip fits.
January
34-38°FWe find lake trout holding near the bottom in deep water. We also target whitefish in similar areas. Ice cover can affect access, so we discuss conditions before booking.
February
33-37°FLake trout remain a primary target in the deep basins. Whitefish are also active in these same zones. Access depends on ice conditions, so we confirm details.
March
35-40°FLake trout fishing remains strong as they move shallower. Brown trout and coho salmon begin to show interest in nearshore areas. We also continue to catch whitefish.
April
38-45°FWe start fishing as the ice recedes. Early spring means fish are moving shallow to feed. We target points and shallower bays.
May
45-55°FThe fish are very active this month. We see fish spread out more as water temperatures rise. We work structure from nearshore humps to deeper ledges.
June
55-65°FWe continue to find aggressive fish. The bite can be fast and furious. We target active schools over structure and along drop-offs.
July
62-68°FWater temperatures are warming. We find lake trout on humps and points. Brown trout and coho salmon move closer to shore.
August
60-66°FLake trout remain strong on offshore structure. Brown trout and coho salmon follow baitfish schools. We target these fish near the surface.
September
55-62°FThis is a prime month for all species. Brown trout and coho salmon stage for their fall runs. Lake trout and whitefish are active feeders.
October
50-58°FWater temperatures drop, concentrating baitfish. We find active salmon and trout along the North Shore. We target points and drop-offs where bait gathers.
November
42-50°FLake trout become more aggressive as waters cool. We focus on deeper structure and humps. Salmon runs are winding down but some stragglers remain.
December
36-42°FWe continue to target lake trout in deep water. Conditions can change rapidly with winter weather. We discuss specific dates and current reports.
Where we fish, and when it's best
St. Louis River Estuary
Best May - Sep — We fish the river and its tributaries as they warm. Early season, fish hold in the channels and near structure. Later, they spread out into the bays and weed beds.
Main Lake Structure
Best Jun - Oct — We target points, humps, and ledges on the main lake. Fish move to deeper water as the lake stratifies and warms.
Shoals and Rock Piles
Best May - Aug — These areas attract baitfish and predators. We find active fish here when conditions are right.
Timber and Brush
Best May - Sep — Submerged timber and brush piles offer cover and ambush points. Fish relate to this structure throughout the warmer months.
Creek Channels
Best Apr - Jun — We fish the mouths of creeks and their channels as the water warms. Fish move up from the main lake to feed.
Dam Tailwaters
Best year-round — The current and structure below the dams attract fish. This area provides consistent fishing opportunities.
Common questions
What is the best month to fish Lake Superior?
Is it worth fishing in the off months?
When do Brown Trout and Coho Salmon show up?
What is a realistic day in the middle of the season?
When are Lake Trout most active?
Ready to Get on the Water?
Dates fill up fast in season. Reach out to Freedom Superior Charter Fishing to lock in your charter.