Benson
A 33-acre lake near Grand Marais in Cook County — best known for panfish. Last surveyed 1999.
Fish Species (1)
Yellow Perch
Above-normal numbers · small fish
Gill-net survey · surveyed Jul 1999
Last surveyed 1999 — treat with caution
Catch rate: 176.0 per gill net · typical 2–15 for a lake like this
Survey History
| Date | Catch Rate | Avg Length | Avg Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jul 13, 1999 | 176.00 | 6.7" | 0.13 lbs |
| Jul 13, 1999 | 0.38 | 6.7" | - |
| Jul 19, 1979 | 84.00 | - | 0.19 lbs |
Biologist Notes
July 13, 1999Yellow perch were abundant in 1999, as they were in the only previous survey of this lake (1979). Although most of the yellow perch collected were sma…
Yellow perch were abundant in 1999, as they were in the only previous survey of this lake (1979). Although most of the yellow perch collected were small, some fish as large as 11 inches were taken, and the lake offered some angling potential for those interested in fast yellow perch action. No game fish and no panfish were collected. Habitat in the lake was not well suited to panfish, and the only game fish species that might be found in the lake (a remote possibility) would be brook trout from the Kimball Creek system.
July 19, 1979Benson Lake has a large population of Perch with a good range of sizes and some Minnows.
Benson Lake has a large population of Perch with a good range of sizes and some Minnows.
Frequently Asked Questions
What fish can you catch in Benson?
Based on Minnesota DNR survey data, anglers target Yellow Perch in Benson. See the full species list above for catch rates, size structure, and quality scores.
Is there public access at Benson?
We don't have a confirmed public access point on record for Benson. Check the DNR LakeFinder page for current access details before you go.
How deep is Benson?
Benson has a maximum depth of 5 feet, per Minnesota DNR data.
When were the main sport fish in Benson last surveyed?
The most recent Minnesota DNR survey data for the main sport fish in Benson is from 1999. Surveys this old should be treated with some caution — fish populations change over time.
Does Benson have any invasive species?
No invasive species are on record for Benson in Minnesota DNR data. Always clean, drain, and dry your equipment to help keep it that way.
More lakes in Cook County
View allLake Details
- Surface Area
- 32.6 acres
- Max Depth
- 5 ft
- Shoreline
- 1.24 mi
- Public Access
- Not confirmed