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

May 28, 2026

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. 

Other Recent Articles

Forest Service Aims to Increase BWCA Permit Cancellation Costs

Forest Service Aims to Increase BWCA Permit Cancellation Costs

Sign at an outfitter in Ely. Photo by Joe Friedrichs BOUNDARY WATERS – It’s a start. That’s been the general sentiment from outfitters and some members of the public regarding the U.S. Forest Service’s plan to increase the cost of cancelling a permit to the Boundary...

Forest Service Enacts Campfire Ban in BWCA Wilderness Starting June 6

Forest Service Enacts Campfire Ban in BWCA Wilderness Starting June 6

A campfire ban for the BWCA Wilderness goes into effect June 6. Photo by Erik Dickes UPDATE: Campfire ban lifted on Friday, June 12. Campfires will once again be allowed as of Friday in the BWCA Wilderness. Original Post: Campfires in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area...