Basswood Lake is a large, expansive wilderness lake located along the U.S.–Canada border in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. The lake extends into Canada’s Quetico Provincial Park and is accessible from several routes and entry points, including Moose Lake, Fall Lake, and Prairie Portage. With its numerous islands, bays, narrows, and long stretches of shoreline, Basswood offers a wide variety of routes and places to explore.
The lake is known for its distinct sections, including Pipestone Bay, Jackfish Bay, Back Bay, and Hoist Bay, as well as the fast-moving water around Basswood Falls. The combination of open water and sheltered bays creates opportunities for fishing, wildlife viewing, and exploring the many islands and shorelines. Basswood is also a major travel corridor, connecting routes from the Ely area with the border and the larger wilderness lake network to the north.
Basswood provides a different experience from many of the quieter paddle-only lakes in the Boundary Waters. Portions of the lake allow limited motorized travel, while the northern section beyond the motor boundary is reserved for paddle travel, providing a more secluded wilderness experience. Its size, variety of waterways, fishing opportunities, and access to both the BWCA and Quetico make Basswood Lake a destination well suited for both basecamp trips and longer wilderness routes.
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From MN DNR fisheries surveys (last 10 years)
Including Jackfish, Pipestone, Hoist and Back bays
Northern Pike
All from 30-40" must be immediately released. Possession limit two, only one over 40". Season is continuous.
Sunfish
Daily limit five.
Known invasives
Spiny waterflea
Clean and dry your gear before leaving to prevent spread.
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Lake data sourced from MN DNR LakeFinder · DOW 38064500
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