Overview
Pelican Lake near Orr in St. Louis County is an approximately 11,500-acre natural lake in Minnesota's northern forest lake country. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources publishes lake survey data and manages the fishery. Pelican Lake (DOW 69-0841-00) near Orr is distinct from other Minnesota lakes that share the Pelican name. Public agencies publish current elevation and recreation notices that are worth checking before a long drive.
Maximum depth is about 38 feet, with roughly 56 miles of shoreline mixing bog edges, timber, and recreational development typical of the Voyageurs-region periphery. Northern forest wetlands and soft shorelines frame a mid-sized lake popular with local resorts and cabin owners. Local marinas and tackle shops often have the most current word on ramp conditions and fishing patterns.
Walleye, panfish, and other coolwater species support local angling and resort use. Public accesses provide boat launching for visitors exploring the Orr area. DNR lake surveys guide stocking and fishing regulations for walleye and panfish anglers. Weather, wind, and seasonal vegetation can matter as much as the gage for a safe day on the water.
Levels are those of a natural lake rather than a federal storage reservoir. Seasonal water and vegetation conditions matter for fishing - check DNR reports and local access notes before a trip. Natural hydrology means snowmelt and summer drought show up directly in shoreline fishing conditions.
Current Conditions
- Drought conditionsSevere Drought
About This Lake
Learn how this lake is managed, what affects its water level, and where Lake Insights gets its data.
Pelican Lake (Orr) is a 11,546-acre natural lake with management context from Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Levels respond to rainfall, runoff, and natural inflows and outflows.