Total streamflow across the Kettle River was last observed at 1,461 cfs, and is expected to yield approximately 2,898 acre-ft of water today; about 62% of normal. River levels are low and may signify a drought. Average streamflow for this time of year is 2,357 cfs, with recent peaks last observed on 2018-05-12 when daily discharge volume was observed at 60,900 cfs.

Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the Kettle River Near Laurier reporting a streamflow rate of 752 cfs. However, the streamgauge with the highest stage along the river is the Kettle River Near Ferry with a gauge stage of 9.8 ft. This river is monitored from 3 different streamgauging stations along the Kettle River, the highest being situated at an altitude of 1,846 ft, the Kettle River Near Ferry.

The Kettle River is a 175-mile-long river that flows through Minnesota's Pine and Carlton Counties, then crosses the border into northeastern Minnesota, where it flows through the St. Louis County, Itasca, and Koochiching Counties. The river was named after the Native American word "Gaa-zhiigwanaabikokaag" which means "river abundant with boiling kettles." The river has been used for logging, farming, and transportation in the past. Today, it is a popular spot for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, camping, and hiking. There are several reservoirs/dams, including the Sturgeon Lake Dam and the Big Falls Dam, that serve hydroelectric power and flood control purposes. The river is also used for agricultural irrigation.