Fishing guide by Kir Mesh

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

Lodging & Camping

Minnesota’s Sport Fish

Places to Fish

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 info.dnr@state.mn.us 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

ota

r ve

Willmar

St. Cloud

sip

Central

Waconia St Paul Minneapolis

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

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

iss

ipp

Wabasha Winona

ive

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.

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.

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, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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.

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.

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!

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.

EXPLORE MINNESOTA TOURISM 121 7TH PLACE EAST SUITE 100 SAINT PAUL, MN 55101-2114 exploreminnesota.com 888-868-7476