There are numerous legacy mine pit lakes across northeastern Minnesota. All of them are former iron mines that naturally filled with water over time. The mine pit lakes at one time produced iron ore, which was turned into steel that helped build America. The bodies of water are deep, clear, cool and clean.

Iron Range Resources & Rehabilitation (IRRR), in partnership with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), began stocking the open mine pit lakes in 1984 as part of its mineland reclamation work. The DNR advises the agency on what mine pit lakes to stock and preferred quantities of fish.

In 2024, IRRR stocked four area lakes with approximately 5,600 rainbow trout totaling 2,800 pounds. The fish were about one-third to three-quarters of a pound each. Stocked mine pit lakes included: Kinney Pit, Kinney; Mott Pit, Mountain Iron; St. James Pit, Aurora; and Tioga Pit, Cohasset. Fish were stocked in both the spring and the fall.

Last month, IRRR Commissioner Ida Rukavina participated in fish stocking at the Mott Pit, transporting several netfuls of rainbow trout into the water. “This is a program our agency has been funding for many years, so I wanted to see firsthand how the fish stocking takes place and get a closer look at the process,” she said. “It is exciting to see a program that dates back 40 years continue to have a positive impact in our region. For a relatively small financial investment, the program enhances regional recreation, which benefits our local communities. Plus, it’s a lot of fun to be able to reel up one of these trout when you’re out fishing!”

According to David Weitzel, assistant regional fisheries manager for the DNR’s Northeast Region, IRRR stocking represents a great partnership between state agencies to maximize recreational opportunities, often near communities that don’t have a lot of nearby natural lakes. “DNR contributes by doing routine fish surveys and fisheries monitoring while working closely with IRRR to develop fisheries management plans that are well suited to meet angler values while utilizing the unique mine pit lake environments,” said Weitzel. “These waters often provide excellent habitat for rainbow trout and enhance the angling experience in northeastern Minnesota by providing a truly unique angler experience. Many of the mine pit lakes provide good shore fishing opportunities but can also be accessed by small watercraft.”

The legacy iron ore mine pits have gained popularity among trout enthusiasts and anglers. However, it's not solely trout fishing that draws visitors to these historic landscapes. Families can partake in a diverse range of world-class recreational activities, such as hiking, mountain biking, water sports, and even scuba diving. It’s important to note that not all mine pit lakes have public accesses, so visitors should make sure to check the DNR’s LakeFinder for information before heading to a lake. Also, remember that Minnesota laws to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species apply to mine pit lakes.

Thanks to ongoing investments from multiple agencies in recreational and conservation opportunities, these mineral-rich landscapes have been reclaimed and transformed into excellent places for fishing and outdoor enjoyment. The transformation highlights how these natural areas continue to enhance the quality of life for residents and serve as significant attractions for tourism, supporting the local economy.