Current Fishing Conditions: Lake Vermillion & Pelican Lake
Northern Minnesota Ice Fishing Update – Northwoods Bait & Tackle Cook, MN,
January 1, 2026
Ice fishing conditions across northern Minnesota continue to offer solid opportunities, and Lake Vermilion has been fishing pretty typical for this time of year with defined morning and evening bites. Anglers are finding consistent action along break lines in the 16–22 foot range, as well as on mid-lake humps. Walleyes on the West End of Vermilion have been showing up slightly deeper, generally in 25–28 feet of water, while East End fish are holding shallower in the 18–24 foot range. A jig and minnow combination has been one of the most productive presentations.
Northern pike are still being caught along deeper weed edges in roughly 9–13 feet of water. Perch and tulibees are also providing action out on the mud flats for anglers willing to search and stay mobile.
Pelican Lake has been producing crappies suspended over the basin, along with a mixed bag of species relating to weed edges and rock piles. It’s a good lake to keep electronics running and be ready to adjust depths throughout the day.
A proven setup has been running a jigging spoon on one rod while deadsticking a rainbow trout, shiner, or pike sucker on the other. This one-two punch continues to trigger both aggressive and neutral fish.
Ice conditions on Lake Vermilion have been shifting recently, with moving ice and a few pressure ridges opening up. Travel with caution, check ice frequently, and stay alert for changing conditions. As always, stop by Northwoods Bait & Tackle in Cook, MN for up-to-date reports, bait, and ice fishing gear before heading out. 🎣❄️
Garmin LiveScope Rentals at Northwoods Bait & Tackle
Staying mobile and using electronics to locate active fish is key right now.
Speaking of electronics, Northwoods Bait and Tackle in Cook, MN has you covered. We offer Garmin LiveScope rentals, along with Vexilar flashers, giving anglers access to top-tier technology without the commitment of buying. Whether you’re chasing pike or walleyes, quality electronics can help you dial in depth, structure, and fish movement.
Stop into Northwoods Bait and Tackle for bait, tackle, rentals, and the latest local fishing reports. The lake is locked—and the ice fishing action is heating up.
Hunting Updates
If you are looking for hunting season updates, please check with the DNR to make sure you have the latest regulations and season information:
MN DNR Website: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/hunting
Fishing Regulations
For the official information on Minnesota Fishing Regulations, we recommend that you always check the MN DNR Website for the latest information.
Lake Finder
Need more information on lake statistics, stocking reports, or fish species? Check out the Lake Finder by the MN DNR for details on Minnesota Lakes and waterways.
Weather Conditions
Changing weather conditions on big water can be dangerous. Know before you go. Check the weather channel and forecast before heading on the water.