No Fuss Fishing - Explore Minnesota

MINNESOTA 2013 - 2014
exploreminnesota.com
EXPLORE
Explore Minnesota Fishing
Minnesota may offer the best multi-species freshwater fishing in the country.
With a surprising variety of fish and different kinds of fishing experiences, it’s
the favorite fishing hole for thousands of anglers.
Minnesota’s good fishing starts with the great variety of water, from big lakes to
small gems, from urban lakes to wilderness waters, from scenic trout streams to
the mighty Mississippi. Roaming these waters are some of the finest game fish
ever to wear scales: large and smallmouth bass, trout, panfish, northern pike,
muskies, and of course, Minnesota’s state fish – the mighty walleye.
Charter fishing trips explore the deep, cold waters of Lake Superior, the world’s
largest freshwater lake, for lake trout, steelhead, chinook, and coho salmon.
Fishing launches take anglers out on some of the state’s largest lakes in pursuit
of walleyes, northerns and muskies. Fly fishermen try for trout in the pristine
streams of Bluff Country. Big, whiskered catfish are the lure in the Red River
of the North and other rivers. Bass fishermen have their choice of lakes and
streams across the state. And kids just want to have fun, tossing in a line from a
lakeside dock, pleased to catch a sunny.
Let this brochure guide you to your own Minnesota fishing hole.
Explore Minnesota Tourism
888-TOURISM (868-7476)
651-296-5029
exploreminnesota.com
Mobile: m.exploreminnesota.com
121 Seventh Place East, Suite 100
St. Paul, MN 55101-2146
Fishing reports: Weekly fishing reports, available by phone
and online, or subscribe to receive weekly fishing reports by
e-mail.
Where to stay: Detailed information on resorts,
campgrounds, hotels, motels and inns.
Other travel info: Fishing guides and charters, ice-fishing
house rentals, Boundary Waters Canoe Wilderness Area canoe
outfitters, and information on other activities, attractions and
events throughout Minnesota.
Trip planners: Talk with a real person; travel counselors are
available weekdays at the phone numbers above and can
develop customized trip planners.
Minnesota Department of Natural
Resources
888-MINN-DNR (888-646-6367)
651-296-6157
mndnr.gov
Lakefinder mobile website: mndnr.gov/mobile/lakefinder
Fishing licenses and regulations: Brochure or online
information on fishing regulations, including seasons and
limits and special regulations for border waters and other
specific waters. (See page 2 for more information on licenses
and fishing seasons.)
Contents
2
Fishing Seasons & Licenses
3
Lodging & Camping
4
Minnesota’s Sport Fish
6
Places to Fish
11 Travel Listings
Fishing Minnesota is published by Explore Minnesota Tourism,
an office of the State of Minnesota. © 2013
1/13 70M
Boating: Guide to laws and rules related to boating.
Outdoor recreation: Information on state parks, trails and
forests.
Maps: Public boat ramps/accesses, trout streams, canoe
routes, and fishing piers. On the DNR website, use the
“Lake Finder” feature to download lake-depth maps and get
fish surveys, stocking reports, and water level and clarity
information.
Lake and fishing maps can also be purchased from
Minnesota’s Bookstore: minnesotasbookstore.com
1
Minnesota Fishing Seasons
2013 seasons; please check with the DNR for 2014 seasons.
Trout in streams
Apr. 1-12, 2013 & Sept. 15-30, 2013 (barbless hooks, catch and
release in southeastern Minnesota)
Apr. 13-Sept. 30, 2013 (Apr. 13-Sept. 14, 2013 in southeastern
Minnesota)
Lake trout
Jan. 1-Mar. 31, 2013 (BWCAW* lakes: Dec. 29, 2012-Mar. 31, 2013)
May 11-Sept. 30, 2013
Rainbow, brook, and brown trout in lakes
Jan. 1-Mar. 31, 2013 (BWCA W* lakes: Dec. 29, 2012-Mar. 31, 2013)
Minnesota Fishing Licenses
May 11-Sept. 30, 2013
Residents and nonresidents 16 and older must have a fishing
license. You must buy a trout stamp to fish any trout stream, trout
lake, or Lake Superior. Licenses are available from the Minnesota
Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and from sporting-goods
stores. You can also buy your license with a credit card by phone
at 888-665-4236, or online at www.mndnr.gov.
LICENSES and FEES
(Includes agent fee and surcharge)
This information applies for 2013; check with the DNR for 2014 license
fees. For a more detailed listing, consult the current fishing regulations at
mndnr.gov.
Resident
Youth age 16 and 17
Individual (age 18 and older)
Individual 24-hour
Combination (husband and wife)
Trout-salmon stamp (not required with a 24-hour license)
Voluntary walleye stamp
$5.00
22.00
10.00
35.00
10.00
5.00
Walleye, sauger, northern pike
May 11, 2013-Feb. 23, 2014
Largemouth and smallmouth bass
May 25, 2013-Feb. 23, 2014 (begins May 16 in northeastern
Minnesota)
Sept. 9, 2013-Feb. 23, 2014 (catch and release smallmouth only)
Muskellunge
June 1-Dec. 1, 2013
Sunfish, crappie, perch, catfish, bullheads
Continuous
*Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness
Note: Fishing regulations for waters along Minnesota’s borders differ somewhat
from inland waters. Also, some inland lakes and streams have special regulations.
For a more detailed listing of fishing seasons and restrictions, consult the
Minnesota Fishing Regulations booklet, available where you buy your license,
from the Minnesota DNR, or in PDF format from the DNR website at www.mndnr.
gov/regulations/fishing.
Nonresident
Youth age 16 and 17
Individual
Individual 24-hour
Individual 72-hour
Individual seven-day
Combination (husband and wife) 14-day
Family (husband, wife, children under 16)
Trout-salmon stamp (not required with 24-hour license)
5.00
45.00
12.00
32.00
38.00
48.00
60.00
10.00
Boating Info
Boat, canoe and kayak licenses required: All boats,
canoes and kayaks (unless non-motorized and nine feet or
less) used in Minnesota must be licensed in Minnesota or the
owner’s home state. Most states will register any boat upon
request. Contact the Minnesota DNR at 800-285-2000 or
[email protected] for information about licensing your
boat.
Boat access: More than 1,900 public accesses have been
built on Minnesota’s lakes and streams. Many of these are
equipped with concrete boat ramps. The locations of most
are shown on county water access maps, available from the
Minnesota DNR Information Center: 651-296-6157 or 888MINNDNR (646-6367).
2
Live
Well
Anchor
Rollers
Axle
Transom
Well
Lower Unit/
Propeller
Minnesota waters are threatened by many invasive species of plants and animals.
It is illegal to transport any aquatic plants, zebra mussel, New Zealand mudsnail,
or other prohibited invasive species on public roads, or to launch a boat or trailer
with these species attached.
Required actions:
4 Remove visible aquatic plants and animals from your boat, trailer, and other
boating equipment before leaving the water access (see diagram).
4 Drain water from your boat, motor, live well, and bait containers before leaving
the water access. Drain plugs, bailers, valves, or other devices used to control the
draining of water from ballast tanks, bilges, and live wells must be removed or
opened while transporting watercraft (marine sanitary systems are excluded from
this requirement).
Recommended actions:
4 Spray, rinse, or dry boats and recreational equipment to remove or kill species
that were not visible when leaving a water body. Before transporting to another
water body: spray/rinse with high pressure and/or hot tap water, especially if
moored for more than a day; or dry boat for at least five days.
4 Dispose of unwanted bait in the trash.
For more information, contact the DNR Invasive Species Program, Division of
Ecological and Water Resources, at 651-259-5100 or 888-646-6367 or visit
www.mndnr.gov/invasives.
Get Away in Minnesota
Great Fishing and So Much More
Whether fishing is the main reason for your trip, or just one of the things you want to do on your getaway,
Minnesota provides you with plenty of options. Select a lakeside resort or campground, or stay in convenient
motel or cozy historic inn. See the listings that begin on page 11 for more ideas on places to stay.
Resorts:
Northwest
Angle
Staying at a Minnesota resort is like having your own lake place.
There are hundreds of resorts to choose from. Some are large
complexes, with luxury suites and condos, on-site golf, gourmet
restaurants or spas. Others are historic lodges. But most are small,
family-operated resorts with several lakeside cabins or cottages.
Most are family-friendly, with swimming beaches, playgrounds,
game rooms and kids’ activities, and some offer large units to
accommodate family reunion groups.
Baudette
Voyageurs
International Falls National
Park
Red Lake
Thief River Falls
Orr
East Grand Forks
Northwest
Virginia
Leech Lake
Walker
Duluth
Aitkin
Brainerd
Fergus Falls
Mille Lacs Lake
Hinckley
Little Falls
Alexandria
Sauk Centre
es
ota
r
ve
Willmar
nn
Ri
St. Cloud
pi
sip
Central
Mi
Waconia
St Paul
Minneapolis
er
Red Wing
New Ulm
Slayton
Minneapolis-St. Paul Area
Lakeville
Riv
Marshall
Worthington
Moose Lake
is
ss
Note: Help protect our trees from bad bugs. Please buy firewood
where you burn it; don’t move firewood from another location.
Lake Superior
Perham
Ortonville
Whether you’re pitching a tent or driving an RV, you’ll find a bounty
of beautiful, lakeside campgrounds in Minnesota. Many of the
resorts in the state also have campgrounds, where you have access
to other resort amenities, such as swimming pools or restaurants.
Other campgrounds are operated by cities or counties. In addition,
there’s a wide choice of rustic campgrounds at state parks, state
forests and in the Chippewa and Superior National Forests.
Grand Rapids
Hackensack
Park Rapids
Moorhead Detroit Lakes
Campgrounds:
Northeast
St Croix River
Red River of the North
Lake Winnibogoshish
Bemidji
Mississippi River
Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness
Ely
Grand Marais
Cook
Mi
Most are also geared up to serve anglers. Resorts typically rent boats
and motors, and may provide dock space if you bring your own boat.
They can also hook you up with a fishing guide who’s familiar with
the local waters. On half-day or all-day trips, guides can show you
where and how to fish the area’s lakes or rivers. Resort and bait
shop owners also are good sources of info on where the fish are
biting.
Warroad
Lake of the Woods
Mankato
Faribault
Southern
Fairmont
Albert Lea
Rochester
Mi
ss
iss
ipp
iR
Wabasha
Winona
ive
r
Preston
Caledonia
For more info on resorts, campgrounds & other places to stay:
www.exploreminnesota.com
www.mndnr.gov/parks
www.fs.fed.us/r9/chippewa
www.fs.fed.us/r9/superior
3
Introducing Minnesota’s Fish
Walleye
Muskellunge and Northern Pike
The walleye is the state fish, and for good reason. They grow big and
fight hard in lakes throughout Minnesota, and they make some tasty
eating. Careful management and stocking in special circumstances
has made the fishing better than ever. Anglers catch walleyes in lots
of ways—casting from
a canoe in the northern
wilderness, trolling livebait rigs or crankbaits
on weedlines and rocky
reefs, bouncing jigs
along the bottom of a
swift-flowing river. If you
don’t have a boat, rent
a spot on a commercial
launch and have a party
catching walleyes with
other anglers. Minnesota’s
walleyes average one
to three pounds, but
sometimes exceed ten.
It’s all in our imagination, of course. They don’t mean to stare. They
don’t mean to raise your pulse and put fear in your heart. But when
a big northern pike or muskie materializes behind your bucktail,
they don’t have to mean to do anything. The big size, sharp teeth,
and lightning strike do it all.
They are the most exciting of
Minnesota’s really big fish.
Northern pike are one of
the most widespread fish in
the state. You’ll find them
from one corner to another,
from the backwaters of the
Mississippi to the wilderness
lakes of canoe country.
Anglers catch them on both
live bait and artificial lures,
by casting and trolling. They
even make for great sport on
a fly rod.
Minnesota muskies are
bigger and more widespread
than ever, thanks to successful stocking programs that have
introduced them to new lakes. A widespread catch-and-release effort
lets them grow big—sometimes over 50 pounds.
4
Panfish
Catfish and Bullheads
Some of Minnesota’s smallest fish win the greatest devotion. There
are anglers who like nothing better than to search deep weedlines
and tiny woodland ponds
to catch “bull” bluegills.
Other fishermen spend
the evenings searching a
big lake for elusive onepound crappies. Sunfish
and crappies live in most
Minnesota lakes.
Minnesota’s catfish
include some monsters.
Flathead cats of the state’s
slow-moving southern
rivers sometimes exceed
50 pounds. There’s
a lot of pull in a fish
that big. Channel cats
can grow bigger than
20 pounds and show
up in some surprising
places, including the Red
River along the state’s
northwest border. You’ll
find bullheads, the smaller
cousins to catfish, in lakes
throughout central and
southern Minnesota—
great sport for kids and
great for the frying pan.
Some of the state’s largest
lakes, known best for big
walleyes, offer a surprise—
jumbo yellow perch, some
weighing more than a
pound. When perch get
that big, there’s nothing
finer in the pan—and that
includes their big cousin,
the walleye!
Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass
In the land of 10,000 lakes, how many have bass? So many that
nearly 100 are named Bass Lake. You won’t catch a world record
largemouth in Minnesota, but you can catch lots of the size that
real anglers catch. Head out in a tricked-out bass boat and work
the weedlines with plastic worms. Or run spinnerbaits through the
shallows. Or row a boat
along the lily pads and
throw topwater plugs,
re-enacting a scene out of
an old Les Kouba print.
With so much focus on
the walleye, some people
would claim Minnesota
lakes are underfished for
bass. And a strong ethic of
catch-and-release fishing
has helped protect lots
of fish in the two- to sixpound range.
Smallmouth bass are
known for jolting strikes
and spirited leaps. You’ll
find no harder-fighting fish
in freshwater. In Minnesota
you’ll find many places and
ways to catch them — running crankbaits over rocky reefs on a big
lake, drifting baited jigs through a pool in a big river, or fly-fishing
with poppers while wading knee-deep in a rocky stream. Plenty of
lakes and rivers produce smallies up to five pounds. In some of these
waters, you can spend the day without seeing another fisherman.
Fishing seems only to be getting better because smallmouth anglers
are a special breed who recognize that smallmouth are a resource
worth protecting through catch and release.
Trout and Salmon
Whether rising through the crystalline current of a stream to sip
a dry fly or leaping across the blue expanse of Lake Superior, trout
and salmon are pictures of grace and power. They live in some of
the most beautiful water imaginable. Rainbow, brook, and brown
trout swim in the riffling
woodland creeks of
southeastern Minnesota’s
bluff country, and in the
tumultuous streams of
Lake Superior’s North
Shore. Trollers find lake
trout, chinook, and coho
salmon in the cold waters
of Superior itself. A
brilliantly colored trophy
“brookie” from a cold
stream may measure only
a foot, while a mature
chinook from the big lake
can easily push 20 pounds.
These two pages are dedicated to the next
generation of anglers. Take a kid fishing this
year, and share the fun.
5
Casting Your Line in the Northwest
The pine and hardwood forests of northwest Minnesota harbor a
wide variety of lakes, from the state’s largest waters to small gems
tucked into the woods. This is also the land where the Mississippi
River begins its journey as a wilderness stream, and where the Red
River travels north along the western border of the state. This range
of waters lures anglers to this northwest territory.
Big Waters
Minnesota’s premiere walleye fisheries are known to serious anglers
across the nation. Lake of the Woods, Leech, Winnibigoshish, and
Upper Red—these are giant lakes with windswept reefs and shorelines, perfect breeding grounds for the state fish. These big lakes also
hold big northern pike, some over 20 pounds. Anglers take to the big
water in deep-V boats, jigging the flats and drop-offs, or trolling the
reefs with crankbaits. Commercial launches, popular on Leech and
Lake of the Woods, are an easy and economical way to get out on
these big waters. There’s also excellent fishing on Lake of the Woods
among the sheltered islands off of the Northwest
Angle, the northernmost point of Minnesota.
Leech Lake is fabled for its notorious muskie
“rampage,” a few midsummer days when
muskies hit anything in the water. Cass Lake
has also been a top producer of big muskies.
Lake Winnibigoshish is a large reservoir with
140 miles of mostly undeveloped shoreline.
Called “Winnie” by its biggest fans, the lake
holds walleye, northerns, muskies and perch.
Adjoining Winnie is Cut Foot Sioux Lake, and
nearby are Bowstring and Ball Club lakes.
North Woods Lakes
The big lakes may have the fame, but hundreds
of smaller lakes rank among the favorites of
those who fish them. They hold almost every
6
kind of game fish Minnesota offers: walleyes, largemouth and smallmouth bass, pike, muskies and panfish.
Among these are Detroit Lake and Lake Bemidji near their namesake towns. These are among some lakes that have become muskie
hotspots through carefully managed stocking programs. But the
region’s popular lakes are favored for their variety and the options
they offer anglers. Near Detroit Lakes are Cormorant, Melissa and
Pelican lakes; Plantagenet and Blackduck lakes are near Bemidji.
Not far from Park Rapids are Big Sand and Fish Hook lakes. All
make good fishing destinations, but there are plenty of others too
numerous to name.
River Fishing
Northern Minnesota also has some red-hot rivers. Float the Mississippi in a boat or canoe and catch everything from muskies to
top-notch smallmouth bass. The river arcs through the north woods
linking several large reservoirs. The Red River along the state’s
western border flows north through a rural
landscape to Canada, and holds channel cats
averaging well over 10 pounds. It’s the northernmost catfish population in the state. The
Red Lake River also features a variety of fish.
While You’re Here
There’s more here than just big lakes and big
fish. A must-see highlight of this area is the
headwaters of the Mississippi River at Itasca
State Park. If you enjoy gaming, there are
several Ojibwe-owned casinos in this area.
Towns such as Detroit Lakes, Park Rapids,
Bemidji and Walker feature hundreds of small
lakeside resorts and campgrounds that cater to
those who come to fish their waters and enjoy
beaches and pools.
Lake Country
Along the Iron Range, from Grand Rapids to Babbitt, abandoned
mine pits have filled with water, forming lakes such as Lake Ore-beGone, now holding trout and big pike. There are many natural lakes
in this area as well, and some are designated trout lakes.
Long, narrow Birch Lake near Babbitt has great fishing for a variety
of species and is a favorite for houseboat rental. Rambling Lake
Vermilion has an island for every day of the year and a budding
reputation as the place to go for big muskies, but the catch includes
perch, walleye and bluegulls. In the north woods between the
Iron Range and Voyageurs, Pelican Lake near Orr has vast shallow
structure for great fishing.
The forests around Grand Rapids are studded with lakes. North of
town, the Edge of the Wilderness Scenic Byway winds among scores
of lakes in the Chippewa National Forest, including Trout Lake
and Lake Wabana. Here is a place to fish walleyes, pike, and bass in
solitude. Just southwest of Grand Rapids is popular Pokegama Lake.
Lake Superior
The Arrowhead borders the largest freshwater lake in the world.
Lake Superior’s cold, clear waters hold native lake trout, and stocked
steelhead, chinook and coho salmon. The big lake is too open and
windswept for many boats, but charter fishing trips are available
from Duluth and other towns along the North Shore.
Stream & River Fishing
Northeast Angling
This corner of Minnesota has been dubbed the “Arrowhead” for its
distinctive shape, formed by the Canadian border on one side and
the craggy shore of Lake Superior on the other. In between is a wild
land with deep forests of pine and birch nestling thousands of lakes,
where wolves still howl and loons call out across the water.
Wilderness Waters
Stream fishing is also popular along the North Shore. In the
thundering wilderness rivers that tumble into Lake Superior,
anglers wade in to cast for resident trout, or drift-fish for spawning
steelhead during their spring run. The St. Louis River near Duluth
is a favorite for its walleye and smallmouth bass. The St. Croix,
a National Scenic River, is a great route to canoe and fish for
smallmouth bass, northern pike, and walleyes.
While You’re Here
Among the top attractions in this area are the many waterfalls
and Split Rock Lighthouse along the North Shore, and the
International Wolf Center and North American Bear Center in Ely.
The Commercial Fishing Museum in Tofte and the Great Lakes
Aquarium in Duluth might be of special interest to anglers. Several
of the state’s top golf courses are in this region.
The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness holds more than a
thousand lakes linked by overland trails. Most lakes are paddle-only;
motors are permitted on only a few. Travel by canoe to secluded
campsites and fish for trophy walleye and northern pike. The topwater smallmouth fishing in these lakes is some of the finest in the
nation. In early spring, the deepest lakes provide light-tackle fishing
for lake trout. Major gateways to this canoe country are Ely and the
Gunflint Trail, a scenic byway that begins in Grand Marais.
Also along the state’s northern border is Voyageurs National Park,
just east of International Falls. Voyageurs has beautiful rocky
lakes, thick forest, and great fishing. Travel is largely by motorboat;
rent one from an area resort, or book a comfortable houseboat.
Rainy, Kabetogama, Namakan, and Crane lakes serve up walleyes,
northerns, smallmouth bass, and big crappies. Just west, anglers fish
the Rainy River for walleyes.
7
Central Waters
This is lake country, where the hardwoods of the south meet the
pine forests of the north, and where the rural countryside holds
hundreds of lakes populated with a variety of fish. With so much to
do off the water, as well, it’s a great family vacation destination.
Legendary Lakes
Located in the heart of the state, the Brainerd Lakes area has been
a fishing destination for travelers for more than a century and
is home to fishing legends Babe Winkelman and Al Lindner, and
In-Fisherman magazine. Tall tales say the giant lumberjack Paul
Bunyan walked these woods, and the lakes here are the puddles that
filled his footprints. Among the bounty of good fishing lakes are
Gull, Pelican, Whitefish, North Long, and Round. An unusual fishery
has developed in the abandoned iron-ore mines of the Cuyuna Iron
Range near Crosby, just to the northwest of Brainerd. Many of these
deep open pits have filled with water and are now stocked with trout;
some also harbor monster pike and smallmouth bass.
East of Brainerd is huge Mille Lacs Lake, the second largest lake
within Minnesota and a popular fishing destination. Known for its
large walleye population, the lake also holds northern pike, perch,
smallmouth bass, muskies and other species. Fishing launches make
it easy to get out on this big lake, carrying 6-50 anglers and providing bait, tackle and advice on half- or full-day trips.
In the Aitkin-McGregor area north of Mille Lacs, several smaller
lakes, including Big Sandy, Round, and Minnewawa, are popular
spots for walleyes, pike, largemouth, and panfish. Cedar is known for
muskies.
8
Central Lakes
The Central Lakes area in the rural countryside south of St. Cloud
serves up some good fishing, too. Popular lakes are Rice, Koronis,
Clearwater, Cedar, Sylvia, and Pleasant, with a few resorts in the
Paynesville area. There is another large cluster of lakes in the countryside around Willmar, including Big Kandiyohi south of town. One
of the best is Green Lake near Spicer. A clear lake amid glacial hills,
Green provides fishing for walleyes, northern pike, bass, and panfish
that would compare favorably with most northern lakes. There are
several lakeside resorts in the Spicer-New London area.
Glacial Lakes
In the rolling countryside surrounding Alexandria and Fergus Falls,
glacial lakes are clustered like constellations in the green hills. Otter
Tail County has more than 1,000 lakes within its boundaries alone,
including Otter Tail and Clitherall near Fergus Falls. Some of the
other best-known glacial lakes include Lake Minnewaska next to
Glenwood, and Le Homme Dieu, Carlos, Darling, Ida and Osakis
near Alexandria. These lakes offer a variety of species, from panfish
to walleye. Several lakes have become muskie hotspots through
carefully managed stocking programs. Among these are Lake Miltona north of Alexandria and West Battle Lake in Otter Tail County.
While You’re Here
This region has hundreds of resorts, from classic lakeside cabins to
large, full-service resorts with restaurants, golf courses, spas and
water parks. The Brainerd Lakes area boasts excellent golf courses.
See antique fishing gear at the Minnesota Fishing Museum in Little
Falls and antique boats at the Minnesota Lakes Maritime Museum
in Alexandria. Cycle for miles on picturesque paved trails such as
the Central Lakes StateTrail, Glacial Lakes State Trail, and Lake
Wobegon Regional Trail.
Several are popular fishing waters, and there are a handful of resorts
in the area that cater to anglers. Among the fishing lakes to try
here are: Tetonka near Waterville; Madison and Washington east of
Mankato; Mazaska, Shields and Roberds near Faribault.
Some of the best and most popular of the prairie lakes farther
south include Benton and Shaokotan west of Marshall, Okabena at
Worthington, Lake Hanska south of New Ulm, and Budd, Sisseton,
and Hall near Fairmont. Farther east is Albert Lea Lake, at its
namesake town.
Minnesota & Mississippi Rivers
As good as the fishing is in southern Minnesota’s lakes, the biggest
fish in the region come from the rivers and streams. The Minnesota
River and major tributaries hold some monstrous flathead catfish.
Drop a live minnow into a logjam on an outside river bend some
evening, and you may soon find yourself wrestling a flathead over 30
pounds. Other game fish on the river include walleyes, saugers, and
channel cats. Try for walleyes at Big Stone Lake, at the headwaters
of the Minnesota River near Ortonville.
In the southeast, the Mississippi River, nestled between steep wooded
bluffs, provides the main action. Its fishing is as impressive as the
scenery, with walleyes, saugers, smallmouth bass and catfish. One of
the most popular fishing holes is Lake Pepin, the widest part of the
river. White bass are also common in the lake, and when schools
smash baitfish at the surface, fishing can be furious. The tangled
backwaters hold a few big northern pike and good panfish.
Trout Streams
The spring-fed streams that riffle through the bluff country in the
far southeastern corner of the state offer Minnesota’s best trout
fishing. Brown trout of two pounds and larger live in large streams
such as the Whitewater and upper reaches of the Root, as well as
clear tributaries so small you can leap across. The streams wind
through valleys of hardwood forest. Fly-fishermen love these
streams for their beautiful surroundings, plentiful trout, and
frequent aquatic insect hatches.
Southern Fishing
Savvy anglers know that the countryside of southern Minnesota
holds well-kept secrets—some surprisingly good fishing lakes and
rivers, as well as scenic trout streams. These waters can make for a
quick and easy fishing getaway.
Southern Lakes
Many of the large lakes in the rolling farmland and valleys of the
south are regularly stocked with walleyes. Most also have northern
pike, largemouth bass, and panfish. Some offer up dandy channel
cats. And nearly every lake and pond down here has bullheads,
perhaps the most popular fish in the region. Catching them is easy
– you just need a pole, line, hook, and worm. Numerous lakes are
splashed around the rural landscape between Mankato and Faribault.
While You’re Here
Visitors have a wide choice of campgrounds or hotels, some country
resorts, and several historic inns and B&Bs. Favorite activities in
this area include antique shopping, visiting historic sites and biking
the region’s scenic, paved trails. Among the area’s many attractions
are the National Eagle Center in Wabasha, historic Schell’s Brewery
in New Ulm, and the new National Trout Learning Center in Preston.
9
Twin Cities Metro Area
If you’re staying in the Minneapolis - St. Paul area, you’re within
casting distance of good fishing. Big smallmouth, walleyes, and
catfish swim in the Mississippi River in the middle of downtown
Minneapolis and St. Paul. Angling for walleye and sauger is popular
on the St. Croix River in the east metro. And the Minnesota River
just south of the Twin Cities is another good bet. In metro lakes, you
can catch muskies, walleyes, and largemouth bass over five pounds.
Extend your range just a few miles and you’re within reach of some
of the best fishing in the state. Lake Minnetonka and Lake Waconia,
both west of Minneapolis, have long had the reputation as great bass
lakes, and now they have muskies, too.
About 30 Twin Cities area lakes are stocked with pure-strain muskies
or hybrid tiger muskies. Among the best are White Bear, Bald Eagle,
and Independence. Many metro lakes have walleyes, northern pike,
bass, and panfish. Among the most popular are the lakes of Chisago
County, at the northeast edge of the metro area, including Green,
Chisago, North Center, and South Lindstrom lakes.
Minnesota has taken special efforts to give city anglers opportunities to go fishing, even if they don’t have a boat, or even a car. The
Fishing in the Neighborhood (FiN) Program stocks fish, installs
fishing piers, puts on fishing clinics, and identifies dozens of
metro-area lakes and rivers that provide good fishing in a safe setting suitable for families. Many FiN facilities are reachable by bus
and are wheelchair-accessible. Learn more about the program and
metro-area fishing opportunities on the state Department of Natural
Resources web site.
Ice Is Nice: No Fuss Fishing
In Minnesota, the fishing goes on even after the lakes freeze over. Just
drill a hole in the ice (power augers help!), drop in a line and relax until
a fish takes a nimble. For many anglers, this low tech, no fuss, boat-free
fishing has a special appeal.
On a beautiful winter day, fish out in the open under a vast blue sky. For
shelter from the cold and wind, fish from inside a cozy hut. On some of
the larger lakes, small villages of fish houses crop up in the winter.
Many resorts rent ice fish houses. These one-room shelters can range
from basic to downright homey, with heaters, carpeted floors, table and
chairs. “Sleeper” houses also have bunks and a cook stove for overnight
stays. If you’re new to the sport, resort staff can set you up with the gear,
which is very basic, and teach you the simple principles of ice fishing.
Most of the species caught the rest of the year bite during winter, as
well: walleyes, northern pike, yellow perch, sunfish, crappies, and in the
wilderness lakes of the northeast, lake trout. January and February are
prime time for ice fishing; the ice needs to be thick and strong enough
to support anglers and their vehicles.
Check with DNR and local area resorts for the latest information about
ice thickness and safety. To find listings of fish house rentals, call 888868-7476 or go to www.exploreminnesota.com.
10
Travel Listings: Plan Your Fishing Getaway
Browse these advertiser
listings to find a great place
for your fishing getaway.
The listings are grouped
by geographic areas that
include lakes and towns
surrounding the major
town or lake named in the
heading. See map on pg. 3.
NORTHWEST
BEMIDJI-BLACKDUCK-RED LAKE
Visit Bemidji
P. O. Box 66
Bemidji, MN 56619
877-250-5959
www.visitbemidji.com
Over 400 fishing lakes are within a 25mile radius of Bemidji. The Bemidji
area is a year-round destination for
multiple species of fishing.
Balsam Beach Resort & RV Park
51155 219th Ave.
Bemidji, MN 56601
218-751-5057
www.balsambeachresort.com
Only resort on Lake Plantagenet.
Lakeview cabins & RV Park. Jumbo
perch, northern, walleyes, trophy-sized
muskies. Clean family resort. Pool,
playground, and fitness center.
Tepee Tonka Resort
20326 Tepee Hill Ln. NE
Hines, MN 56647
800-346-5674
www.minnesota-resort.com
On Blackduck Lake, well-known
walleye lake. Family and fishing
resort, pool, and beach. Half-hour
from Red Lake, near Itasca State Park
& Lost Forty.
West Wind Resort
54719 Hwy. 72 NE, P. O. Box 429
Waskish, MN 56685
218-647-8998
www.westwindwaskish.com
Full-service, year-round resort on
Upper Red Lake. Cabins, fish houses,
bar, restaurant, lake access, bait,
tackle, marina, snowmobile trails, RV
sites.
DETROIT LAKES AREA
Detroit Lakes Regional Chamber
700 Summit Ave.
Detroit Lakes, MN 56501
800-542-3992
www.visitdetroitlakes.com
Year-round fishing fun in Detroit
Lakes! Pan and game fish, including
trophy-size muskie! Round out your
visit with warm accommodations,
dining, shopping and attractions.
Tamarac Bay Resort
40728 Co. Rd. 126
Rochert, MN 56578
888-847-7096
www.detroitlakes.com
Fish walleyes, northern, bass, and pan
fish on Island Lake. Fishing and family
resort with 11 cabins situated between
Detroit Lakes and Park Rapids.
Pontoon available.
HACKENSACK-BACKUS
Bayside Cabins
206 Rosalind Ave. W
Backus, MN 56435
800-840-3344
www.baysidecabins.com
Five cabin resort on 1600-acre Pine
Mountain Lake in Backus. Lakeside
storage lockers and fish cleaning
room. Boat rental available. Private
lake access.
Minne Teepee Resort
870 Co. Rd. 11
Hackensack, MN 56452
218-682-2485
www.minneteepee.com
Beautiful brand new log cabins on
Woman Lake with gorgeous lakeside
views. Wonderful cabins, safe, calm
boat harbor, beach, canoe, kayaks,
playground and free WiFi.
LAKE OF THE WOODS
Lake of the Woods Tourism
930 West Main
Baudette, MN 56623
800-382-3474
www.lakeofthewoodsmn.com
The walleye capital of the world
welcomes you! Resort listings, charter
boats, ice fishing, videos, fishing
reports and more.
Border View Lodge
3409 State Hwy. 172 NW
Baudette, MN 56623
800-776-3474 (profish)
www.borderviewlodge.com
Lake of the Woods, Rainy River,
summer guided walleye fishing
charters. Winter ice fishing package
and sleepers. American plan, bar and
restaurant, clean comfortable cabins.
Randall’s Resort
3984 Co. Rd. 8 NW
Baudette, MN 56623
218-634-1987
www.randallsresortlow.com
Located on protected Rustic Bay on
Lake of the Woods, year-round full
service resort, cabins, RV spots and
mobile home park.
Sportsman’s Lodge
3244 Bur Oak Rd. NW
Baudette, MN 56623
800-862-8602
www.sportsmanslodges.com
Where to go if you’re goin’ for walleye!
Located at the Walleye Capital of the
world Lake of the Woods, year-round
guided trips.
Zippel Bay Resort
6080 39th St. NW
Williams, MN 56686
800-222-2537
www.zippelbay.com
Lake of the Woods, all seasons, fullservice resort & campground, pool, hot
tub, restaurant, store, boats, charters.
Winter ice houses & “Zippel Igloo”
fun.
LEECH LAKE-WINNIBIGOSHISH
Leech Lake Area Chamber of
Commerce
205 Minnesota Ave., P.O. Box 1089
Walker, MN 56601
800-866-1118
www.leech-lake.com
Experience the thrill and excitement
when the last cast snags the big one.
Walleye, northern pike, muskie, bass,
panfish. We have it all.
Country Inn Walker
442 Walker Bay Blvd.
Walker, MN 56484
888-266-2146
www.walkercountryinn.com
While fishing Leech Lake enjoy our
newly renovated hotel with clean
comfortable rooms. Your stay includes
continental breakfast with pool and
hot tub on site.
Bowen Lodge
58485 Bowens Rd.
Deer River, MN 56636
800-331-8925
www.bowenlodge.com
Perfectly situated on both
Winnibigoshish and Cutfoot Sioux
Lakes, we boast first-class facilities,
marina, and spotless cabins with all
the comforts of home.
PARK RAPIDS AREA
Park Rapids Lakes Area Chamber
of Commerce & Tourism
1204 Park Ave. S, P. O. Box 249
Park Rapids, MN 56470
800-247-0054
www.parkrapids.com
Where the mighty Mississippi begins
and fishing adventures never end.
500 lakes offer excellent fishing yearround. Resorts, motels, B&BS &
campgrounds.
Itasca Area Lakes Tourism
Association
Park Rapids, MN 56470
218-732-9594
www.itascaarea.com
Quality resorts and campgrounds for
your stay in the area serving Itasca
State Park and Park Rapids, with
many lakes and great fishing awaiting
you.
Bear Paw Resort
31926 Co. Hwy. 50
Park Rapids, MN 56470
218-732-9594
www.bearpawresort.com
Bear Paw Resort, Two Inlets Lake, 10
miles south of Itasca State Park. Nine
a/c lakeside cabins and very clean
great family vacation.
Little Norway Resort
32016 Little Mantrap Dr.
Park Rapids, MN 56470
218-732-5480
www.littlenorwayresort.com
Little Mantrap Lake; many bays, 11
miles of shoreline; largemouth bass,
panfish, northerns and walleyes. On a
secluded peninsula one mile south of
Itasca Park.
NORTHEAST
ELY AREA
Ely Chamber of Commerce
1600 E Sheridan St.
Ely, MN 55731
218-365-6123
www.ely.org
Access to more than 5,000 lakes and
streams in the Superior National
Forest and Boundary Waters Canoe
Area Wilderness, with some of the
country’s best fishing.
Grand Ely Lodge Resort &
Conference Center
400 N Pioneer Rd.
Ely, MN 55731
218-365-6565
www.grandelylodge.com
61 lakeview rooms on Shagawa Lake;
nightly/weekly rates. Evergreen
Restaurant, Antlers Lounge, pool,
fishing & pontoon boat rentals. Free
boat dockage. Walleye, bass, northern.
Kinsey Houseboats
2718 Birch River Rd.
Babbitt, MN 55706
888-827-3763
www.kinseys.com
Located on Birch Lake near Babbitt &
Ely next to the BWCAW. Birch Lake
has trophy walleye, northern, muskie,
crappy, bluegill, large & small mouth
bass.
11
LaTourell’s Resort & Outfitters
P.O. Box 239
Ely, MN 55731
800-365-4531
www.latourells.com
Closest fishing resort/canoe outfitter to
famous Basswood Lake and Boundary
Waters Wilderness. World-class
smallmouth, walleye and northern.
Catering to fishermen for three
generations.
North Country Canoe Outfitters
474 Kawishiwi Trail
Ely, MN 55731
800-552-5581
www.boundarywaters.com
Fishing opportunities abound
throughout the Boundary Waters:
walleye, smallmouth and northerns!
Individual outfitting and planning
based on ability and interest. Award
winning brochure and DVD.
Cook County Visitors Bureau
505 W Superior St, P.O. Box 1330
Grand Marais, MN 55604
218-387-2788
www.visitcookcounty.com
Did you know 8 of the 9 state record
fish were caught in Cook County?
Fish our area and find out. You’ll be
hooked!
Bearskin Lodge
124 East Bearskin Rd.
Grand Marais, MN 55604
800-338-4170
www.bearskin.com
A family run BWCA wilderness
resort offering secluded cabins on
East Bearskin Lake. Good fishing for
walleyes, small mouth bass, northern
pike, and lake trout.
GRAND RAPIDS-MARCELL
Golden Eagle Lodge, Resort and
Campground
Gunflint Trail
468 Clearwater Rd.
Grand Marais, MN 55604
800-346-2203
www.golden-eagle.com
DNR managed trophy smallmouth
bass & walleye lake; pike & lake trout.
Lakefront cottages, campground.
Only residence/resort on Flour Lake.
Boat/motor, canoe, kayak & pontoon
rentals.
Visit Grand Rapids
501 S. Pokegama Ave., Suite #3
Grand Rapids, MN 55744
218-326-9607
www.visitgrandrapids.com
Home to 1,000+ Grand Lakes, the
Grand Rapids area is a fishing mecca
for anglers in search of crappie,
northern, walleye, panfish, bass and
perch
Lake Superior Fishing, LLC
P. O. Box 3026
Duluth, MN 55803
855-700-0013
www.lakesuperiorfishing.com
Lake Superior’s sportfishing leader
since 1982! Duluth’s only multiple
boat charter operation. More trips,
more boats, more fish! With us
“You set the hook!”
Edge of the Wilderness Lodging
Association
P.O. Box 32
Marcell, MN 56657
888-754-0011
www.edgeofthewilderness.com
Visit the Edge of the Wilderness Resort
Area, home to more than half of Itasca
County’s 1400+ lakes and some of
Minnesota’s best fishing resorts.
Loon Lake Lodge
65 Loon Lake Rd.
Grand Marais, MN 55604
218-388-2232
www.visitloonlake.com
Only resort on lake. Log cabins w/
kitchens & baths. Fish for lake trout,
smallmouth bass & northerns. Fishing
boats/pontoon. Enjoy canoeing,
kayaking & hiking. Dining room.
WiFi.
Spirit of the Wilderness Outfitters
& Outdoor Store
2030 E Sheridan St.
Ely, MN 55731
800-950-2709
www.elycanoetrips.com
Your one stop BWCAW canoe outfitter
& bait shop. We talk fishing. Stop in
for bait, tackle, canoe rentals, permits,
clothing, sporting goods & more.
Cedar Point Resort
38268 Cedar Point Rd.
Marcell, MN 56657
800-450-6613
www.cedarptresort.com
North Star: managed walleye, muskie
and northern lake, bass, crappie.
Remodeled cabins (with a/c), most
within 20’ of shore. Pool, gameroom,
beach. Something for everyone!
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LAKE SUPERIOR & GUNFLINT
TRAIL
LAKE VERMILION
Lake Vermilion Resort Association
P. O. Box 159
Cook, MN 55723
800-648-5897
www.fishlakevermilion.com
40,000-acre Canadian Shield Lake.
Great fishing for walleye, bass,
northern, muskie and more. Our
resorts, hotels, campgrounds and
houseboats specialize in fishing
vacations.
Everett Bay Lodge on Lake
Vermilion
1820 Everett Bay Rd.
Tower, MN 55790
218-753-5115
www.everettbaylodge.com
Fishing, families and fun! Fantastic
walleye, muskie, small and
largemouth bass, northern, perch.
Housekeeping cabins, private docking,
launch, heated swimming pool. Boat/
motor rentals.
Kabetogama Lake Assn. &
Tourism
10124 Timber Wolf Trail
Kabetogama, MN 56669
800-524-9085
www.kabetogama.com
Lake Kabetogama in beautiful,
scenic Voyageurs National Park.
Excellent fishing and family vacation
destination. Lakeshore resorts.
Offering a wide range of year-round
accommodations.
Pehrson Lodge Resort
2746 Vermilion Dr.
Cook, MN 55723
800-543-9937
www.pehrsonlodge.com
Beautiful cabins, magnificent setting.
New 12-bedroom reunion chalet.
Renowned fishery, scenery and
wildlife. Expansive rental fleet, harbor
service, beach. Pet-friendly cabins,
spring/fall rates.
Kec’s Kove
10428 Gamma Rd.
Lake Kabetogama, MN 56669
218-875-2841
www.KecsKove.com
Lake Kabetogama in Voyageurs
National Park; comfortable cabins,
open year-round. Protected boat
harbor, deluxe fishing boats, dock
service. Lodge with bar, restaurant,
spa & sauna.
MOOSE LAKE
Moosehorn Resort
10434 Waltz Rd.
Kabetogama, MN 56669
218-875-3491
www.moosehornresort.com
Beautiful family and fishing resort
located on Lake Kabetogama in
Voyagers National Park. Nine newly
renovated cabins with spectacular lake
views boat rentals, beach, dock slips.
Northwoods Inn & Cottages
3716 Main St.
Barnum, MN 55707
218-389-6951
www.northernmnmotels.com
Small inn with 15 rooms, all
non-smoking clean, comfortable,
affordable; located ¼ mile west of I-35,
exit 220 near Moosehead Lake. (Sorry,
no pets.)
ORR-PELICAN LAKE
Pelican Lake Resort Association
& Orr CVB
P. O. Box 144
Orr, MN 55771
800-777-4690
www.orrpelicanlake.com
Experience world-class fishing on
Pelican Lake’s 12,000 acres; 54 miles
of shoreline, 50 islands, resorts,
motels, B&B, fishing guides, boat
rentals.
RAINY, KABETOGAMA, CRANE
LAKES
Crane Lake Visitor & Tourism
Bureau
7238 Handberg Rd.
Crane Lake, MN 55725
800-362-7405
www.visitcranelake.com
Experience outstanding fishing at
Crane Lake; entrance to hundreds
of miles of lakes that make up the
Voyageurs National Park and BWCA.
Resorts, outfitters, houseboats.
CENTRAL
BRAINERD LAKES
Explore Brainerd Lakes
Brainerd Lakes Chamber
7393 State Hwy. 371 S
Brainerd, MN 56401
800-450-2838
www.explorebrainerdlakes.com
Brainerd Lakes: One of the best
multispecies, freshwater fisheries in
the country, with 500 diverse lakes,
including Gull Lake, Whitefish Chain,
and Mille Lacs Lake.
Black Pine Beach Resort
10732 Co. Rd. 16
Pequot Lakes, MN 56472
218-543-4714
www.blackpinebeach.com
Fish over 14,000 acres of Whitefish
chain waters. Variety of lake
structure contributes to proud
catches. Personalized guide services
at affordable rates, clean, comfortable
cabins.
Cragun’s Resort
11000 Cragun’s Dr.
Brainerd, MN 56401
800-Craguns
www.craguns.com
On Gull Lake, a family fishing favorite.
Royal Karel’s Guide Service: full and
half-day trips available. Full-service
marina. Bait, tackle, and boat rental.
Gull Four Seasons Resort
4132 St. Columbo Rd.
Brainerd, MN 56401
218-963-7969
www.MnResortCabins.com
Gull Lake; affordable fishing, family
resort, boats, motors, pontoons, boat
lifts. Great walleye, bass, northern
pike, panfish fishing; fishing guides.
Cabins, condos, chalets, swimming
pools.
Niemeyer’s Rugged River Resort
12241 Stallman Rd. N
Brainerd, MN 56401
800-416-4587
www.ruggedriverresort.com
Our quaint cabins and the Mississippi
River’s unspoiled beauty are
reminiscent of eras past with updated
amenities for today. Come, let nature
soothe your soul.
Reel Livin’ Resort
5996 Birchdale Rd.
Brainerd, MN 56401
218-829-9054
www.reellivinresort.com
Enjoy the clean, clear waters of North
Long Lake for your great fishing
memories. Five cabins; reasonable
rates. It’s your home away from
home.
Crossings Inn & Suites
211 W Main St.
Parkers Prairie, MN 56361
218-338-3380
www.crossingsparkersprairie.com
In Parkers Prairie, Minnesota near
Lake Adley and north of lakes Miltona,
Ida and Carlos in Alexandria, this hotel
offers free breakfast, wi-fi and pool.
Sunset Bay Resort
38274 Co. Hwy. 44
Richville, MN 56576
800-786-7229
www.sunsbay.com
Dead Lake secluded family resort:
lakefront housekeeping cabins, RV/tent
campsites. Sandy beach, playground,
game room, shower house. Pontoon,
boats, motors, gas. Excellent fishing,
recreation.
MILLE LACS LAKE
Mille Lacs Area Tourism Council
P. O. Box 286
Isle, MN 56342
888-350-2692
www.millelacs.com
90 miles north of the Twin Cities, Mille
Lacs Lake is a premier fishery for
walleye, bass, muskie and perch with
lodging and recreational activities.
Tom’s Resort
39453 St. Hwy. 6, P.O. Box 192
Emily, MN 56447
218-763-2355
www.tomsresort.com
Tom’s Resort gives fishermen access
to Lakes Emily, Mary and Dahler.
Catch northern, crappies, bass, sunfish
and walleyes. Ultra-modern cabins,
reasonably priced.
Twin Pines Resort
7827 U.S. Hwy. 169
Garrison, MN 56450
800-450-4682
www.twinpinesmillelacs.com
The complete Lake Mille Lacs familyrun resort. Lodging, full-service
restaurant and bar, charter and open
launch service, and ice house rentals
and roads.
CENTRAL LAKES
OTTER TAIL
Willmar Lakes Area Convention
and Visitors Bureau
2104 Hwy. 12 E.
Willmar, MN 56201
800-845-8747
www.willmarlakesarea.com
Willmar Lakes Area is located 90
minutes west of the Twin Cities. With
over 30 recreational lakes, we are the
premier fishing destination in Central
Minnesota.
Perham Area Chamber of
Commerce
185 E Main St.
Perham, MN 56573
218-346-7710
www.perham.com
Surrounded by 1048 lakes in Otter
Tail County, the Perham area makes it
easy to catch walleye, bass, northern,
crappie, and sunfish! Visit Perham.
com today
Sauk Centre Visitors Bureau
1220 Main St. S
Sauk Centre, MN 56378
855-444-sauk
www.visitsaukcentre.com
Big Sauk Lake on Sauk Centre’s
original Main Street. Lake Wobegon
Trail and Glacial Ridge Trail course
through town. Enjoy restaurants,
lodging, camping and more!
Crossings Inn & Suites by
GrandStay
231 Market Dr.
Perham, MN 56573
218-346-2033
www.crossingsperham.com
Resort-like stay with pool. Nightly/
weekly rates. Otter Tail County’s
12,000+ lakes, fishing guides,
ice fishing, 200+ miles groomed
snowmobile trails. Golf & fishing
specials.
Limmers Resort
35338 Rush Lake Loop
Ottertail, MN 56571
218-367-2790
www.limmersresort.com
A family fishing resort on Rush Lake
offering walleye, northern, bass and
pan fish. Clean cottages with a/c.
Old Town Resort
20669 Old Town Trail
Clitherall, MN 56524
218-864-8173
www.oldtownresort.net
Excellent fishing in Otter Tail County.
Eight clean, modern cabins on the
north shore of Clitherall Lake. Spring
and fall specials. Pontoon rental.
Pelican Motel
900 North Broadway
Pelican Rapids, MN 56572
218-863-3281
www.pelicanrapidsmotel.com
Otter Tail County offers more lakes
than any other county in the United
States! Motel offers wireless internet,
clean/updated and quiet rooms. Great
rates!
SOUTHERN
MINNESOTA
MISSISSIPPI RIVER
Red Wing Visitor & Convention
Bureau
420 Levee St.
Red Wing, MN 55066
651-385-5934
www.redwing.org
Mississippi River offers great walleye,
bass, sauger & pan fish. Embraced
by the beautiful bluffs along this
magnificent river all year-round.
SOUTHWEST LAKES
Fairmont Convention and Visitors
Bureau
P. O. Box 976
323 East Blue Earth Ave.
Fairmont, MN 56031
507-235-8585
www.visitfairmontmn.com
Fish Fairmont! 48 lakes in the area
filled with walleyes, bass, and pan
fish to name a few. Located on I-90,
multiple lodging options available.
Murray County Tourism &
Recreation
2848 Broadway Ave.
Slayton, MN 56172
507-836-6148
www.murray-countymn.com
Murray County is known for excellent
fishing on many lakes including Lake
Shetek, Lake Sarah and more. There
are several great fishing opportunities
in peaceful settings.
Worthington Area Convention &
Visitors Bureau
1121 Third Ave.
Worthington, MN 56187
800-279-2919
www.worthingtonmnchamber.com
Enjoy fishing in Lake Okabena, a 785acre lake on the edge of Worthington.
Four boat launching sites, ten public
parks and Olson Campground
surround the lake.
TROUT STREAMS
Caledonia Area Convention and
Tourism Bureau
P. O. Box 425
Caledonia, MN 55921
507-725-5477
www.visitcaledonia.com
Enjoy the scenic bluffs while camping
in our state park and fishing in the
Root River, Mississippi River, or one of
our pristine trout streams.
National Trout Center (NTC)
P. O. Box 512
Preston, MN 55965
507-765-4700
www.nationaltroutcenter.org
The NTC offers workshops and handson activities to engage the public in
awareness of the environment and
cold water fishery resources in the
driftless region.
TWIN CITIES AREA
Visit Lakeville
19950 Dodd Blvd. Suite 101
Lakeville, MN 55044
952-469-2020
www.visitlakeville.org
Beautiful Lake Marion boasts Antlers
and Casperson parks: fishing piers,
swimming beach, walking paths. Fish
for northern pike, crappie, sunfish,
walleye, largemouth bass, and yellow
perch.
Waconia Chamber & CVB
209 S Vine St.
Waconia, MN 55387
952-442-5812
www.destinationwaconia.org
Fish Lake Waconia! Home of the 2012
Governor’s Fishing Opener. Just west
of the Twin Cities, our bountiful lake
offers a variety of fishing year-round.
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EXPLORE MINNESOTA TOURISM
121 7TH PLACE EAST SUITE 100
SAINT PAUL, MN 55101-2114
exploreminnesota.com
888-868-7476