Lake Superior is the largest of the Great Lakes and it is home to a wide variety of fish. The lake is home to over 75 different species of fish, ranging from small panfish to large lake trout. Here is a look at some of the most popular fish that are found in Lake Superior.
Lake Trout
The lake trout, or salvelinus namaycush, is one of the largest fish that is found in Lake Superior. It can reach lengths of up to 40 inches long and weigh up to 40 pounds. Lake trout are carnivorous predators that feed on smaller fish, insects, and crustaceans. They can be found in depths of up to 300 feet, but are more commonly found in shallow waters near the shore. Lake trout are popular with anglers for their size and fight.
Cisco
The cisco, or Coregonus artedi, is a species of whitefish that is native to Lake Superior. Cisco can reach lengths of up to 18 inches and weigh up to 5 pounds. They are primarily bottom-dwellers, feeding on small invertebrates and plankton. Cisco can be found throughout the lake, but are most common in the deeper, colder waters near the center of the lake. They are an important part of the Lake Superior food chain, as they are a food source for larger predators like lake trout. Cisco are also popular with anglers, as they provide good sport on light tackle.
Walleye
The walleye, or sander vitreus, is a popular game fish that is found in Lake Superior. Walleye can reach lengths of up to 28 inches and weigh up to 8 pounds. They are aggressive predators that feed on smaller fish, insects, and crustaceans. Walleye can be found throughout the lake, but are most common in shallow, rocky areas near the shore. They are a popular target for anglers, as they provide good sport on light tackle.
Lake Whitefish
The lake whitefish, or coregonus clupeaformis, is a species of freshwater fish that is native to Lake Superior. Lake whitefish can reach lengths of up to 28 inches and weigh up to 8 pounds. They feed on small invertebrates and plankton, and can be found throughout the lake. Lake whitefish are an important part of the Lake Superior food chain, as they are a food source for larger predators like lake trout and walleye. They are also popular with anglers, as they provide good sport on light tackle.
Yellow Perch
The yellow perch, or perca flavescens, is a species of freshwater fish that is native to Lake Superior. Yellow perch can reach lengths of up to 12 inches and weigh up to 1.5 pounds. They feed on small invertebrates and plankton, and can be found throughout the lake. Yellow perch are an important part of the Lake Superior food chain, as they are a food source for larger predators like lake trout and walleye. They are also popular with anglers, as they provide good sport on light tackle.
Brook Trout
The brook trout, or salvelinus fontinalis, is a species of freshwater fish that is native to Lake Superior. Brook trout can reach lengths of up to 20 inches and weigh up to 4.5 pounds. They feed on small invertebrates and plankton, and can be found throughout the lake. Brook trout are an important part of the Lake Superior food chain, as they are a food source for larger predators like lake trout and walleye. They are also popular with anglers, as they provide good sport on light tackle.
Smallmouth Bass
The smallmouth bass, or micropterus dolomieu, is a species of freshwater fish that is native to Lake Superior. Smallmouth bass can reach lengths of up to 24 inches and weigh up to 6 pounds. They feed on small invertebrates and plankton, and can be found throughout the lake. Smallmouth bass are an important part of the Lake Superior food chain, as they are a food source for larger predators like lake trout and walleye. They are also popular with anglers, as they provide good sport on light tackle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the largest fish in Lake Superior?
The largest fish in Lake Superior is the lake trout, or salvelinus namaycush, which can reach lengths of up to 40 inches long and weigh up to 40 pounds.
What is the most popular fish in Lake Superior?
The most popular fish in Lake Superior is the walleye, or sander vitreus, which can reach lengths of up to 28 inches and weigh up to 8 pounds. They are a popular target for anglers, as they provide good sport on light tackle.
What kind of fish can be found in Lake Superior?
Lake Superior is home to over 75 different species of fish, ranging from small panfish to large lake trout. Some of the most popular fish that are found in Lake Superior include lake trout, cisco, walleye, lake whitefish, yellow perch, brook trout, and smallmouth bass.
Where can I find fish in Lake Superior?
Fish can be found throughout Lake Superior, but they are most commonly found in shallow waters near the shore. Some species, such as lake trout, are more common in deeper waters near the center of the lake.
What kind of bait should I use when fishing in Lake Superior?
When fishing in Lake Superior, it is best to use natural baits such as minnows, worms, or leeches. Artificial lures can also be used, but live bait is generally more effective.
What is the best time of year to fish in Lake Superior?
The best time of year to fish in Lake Superior depends on the species that you are targeting. However, the summer months are generally the best time of year to fish, as the water is warmest and the fish are most active.
Is fishing in Lake Superior regulated?
Yes, fishing in Lake Superior is regulated by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. It is important to familiarize yourself with the regulations before fishing in Lake Superior.
Is a fishing license required in Lake Superior?
Yes, a fishing license is required when fishing in Lake Superior. Licenses can be obtained from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources or from local bait shops.
What is the best way to catch fish in Lake Superior?
The best way to catch fish in Lake Superior will depend on the species that you are targeting. However, some general techniques that work well in Lake Superior include trolling, jigging, and bottom bouncing.
Are there any special regulations for fishing in Lake Superior?
Yes, there are special regulations for fishing in Lake Superior. It is important to familiarize yourself with the regulations before fishing in Lake Superior.
Are there any restrictions on fishing in Lake Superior?
Yes, there are restrictions on fishing in Lake Superior. It is important to familiarize yourself with the regulations before fishing in Lake Superior.
How can I find out more about fishing in Lake Superior?
The best way to learn more about fishing in Lake Superior is to contact the Michigan Department of Natural Resources or local bait shops. These organizations can provide information on regulations, fishing tips, and the best places to fish.