First Lake Fishing near Cloquet, Minnesota

• Overview

  First Lake is one of the Carlton County listings for Minnesota. Elevation runs to 1,260 feet. About 15 acres of surface, which puts the far bank inside easy sight. It is a small entry by Carlton County standards. Supplies mean a trip to Cloquet, 1.4 miles off. Then Carlton, 4.7 miles, and Esko, 6 miles. A border sits close enough to be relevant to the paperwork.

• Where to Fish on First Lake

  Our records hold no depth for this water. The shallow end warms first and pulls fish in ahead of the rest. This is a lake, so the margins and the first drop matter most. Species logged across Carlton County include bluegill, yellow perch, black crappie and largemouth bass. Take it as the county picture rather than a promise for this water. Anyone new to First Lake should walk it once before setting up.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Averages move between 7°F in January and 67°F in July. Cold winters and warm summers give a wide working range. Count on hard cover from midwinter, and open water from mid April. On average, mid April opens the water and late November closes it again. Early summer and early autumn carry the open-water season. Plan any trip to First Lake around it.

• Tackle & Baits

  The paperwork position is blank for this one. You can park half a mile away and walk in from there. A small crankbait along the drop and a worm in the thick stuff cover the bass. Look for a notice board at the entrance. Access can change hands, so last year's answer may not hold. Failing this one, try Second Lake, 0.4 miles away. Check the position at First Lake before loading the car.