Ambush
A 31-acre lake near Tofte in Cook County — best known for panfish and pike. Last surveyed 1972.
Fish Species (2)
Typical numbers · large fish
Gill-net survey · surveyed Sep 1972
Last surveyed 1972 — treat with caution
Catch rate: 13.3 per gill net · typical 2–23 for a lake like this
Survey History
| Date | Catch Rate | Avg Length | Avg Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sep 1, 1972 | 13.33 | - | 0.35 lbs |
Above-normal numbers · average-size fish
Gill-net survey · surveyed Sep 1972
Last surveyed 1972 — treat with caution
Catch rate: 9.3 per gill net · typical 3.9–9.4 for a lake like this
Survey History
| Date | Catch Rate | Avg Length | Avg Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sep 1, 1972 | 9.33 | - | 1.32 lbs |
Fishing Regulations
Statewide limits
Standard statewide Minnesota limits for the species in this lake.
Northern Pike
Season: May 9, 2026 – Feb 28, 2027
Northeast zone
Angling: 2 (not more than 1 over 40" in possession. All from 30-40" must be immediatley released).
Perch
20 daily and 40 in possession
More statewide rules (spearing, rough fish)
Northern Pike
Season: Nov 15, 2026 – Feb 28, 2027
Northeast zone
Darkhouse spearing: 2 (Not more than 1 over 26").
Biologist Notes
September 1, 1972Ambush Lk has a large N Pike population with a good distribution of sizes. A forage species. Yel Perch are abundant with a good proportion of angling…
Ambush Lk has a large N Pike population with a good distribution of sizes. A forage species. Yel Perch are abundant with a good proportion of angling size, 10-12 inches.
Frequently Asked Questions
What fish can you catch in Ambush?
Based on Minnesota DNR survey data, anglers target Yellow Perch and Northern Pike in Ambush. See the full species list above for catch rates, size structure, and quality scores.
Is there public access at Ambush?
Minnesota DNR records list public access for Ambush. Check the DNR LakeFinder page for the launch type and directions before you go.
How deep is Ambush?
Ambush has a maximum depth of 15 feet, per Minnesota DNR data.
When were the main sport fish in Ambush last surveyed?
The most recent Minnesota DNR survey data for the main sport fish in Ambush is from 1972. Surveys this old should be treated with some caution — fish populations change over time.
Does Ambush have any invasive species?
No invasive species are on record for Ambush in Minnesota DNR data. Always clean, drain, and dry your equipment to help keep it that way.
Are there special fishing regulations on Ambush?
No — Ambush has no lake-specific regulations in the 2026 Minnesota DNR regulations, so statewide Minnesota limits apply. The statewide perch limit is: 20 daily and 40 in possession. Verify current rules with the Minnesota DNR before keeping fish.
More lakes in Cook County
View allLake Details
- Surface Area
- 31.26 acres
- Max Depth
- 15 ft
- Shoreline
- 1.4 mi
- Public Access
- Yes