Dave Van Kley (left) and Joe Friedrichs with BWCA lake trout, May 2026. Photo by Chad Kieper
BWCA Fishing Report & Conditions Update

By Joe Friedrichs
Hudson Ledeen is a conservation officer for the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources based in Cook County.
Part of his coverage area is located in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Hudson meet with Joe Friedrichs from Paddle & Portage media in late May 2026 to discuss the start of the paddling and fishing season in the BWCA.
Topics covered include:
–Lake trout, brook trout, and walleye bite in the BWCA to start the season
–Canoe patrols by conservation officers in the BWCA
–Fire conditions across the BWCA and surrounding region
–Wildlife reports from northeastern Minnesota
This interview was recorded on the shoreline of Lake Superior in Grand Marais.
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