With over 10,000 lakes dotting the state, Minnesota is famous for having some of the best walleye, northern pike, muskie and bass fishing in the nation. Active travelers will have plenty of options when it comes to getting on the water and enjoying a day outdoors any time of year, as the state also has dozens of lakes suitable for ice fishing in the winter.
Fish of Minnesota
While the most-sought fish are northern pike, walleye, muskie and bass, Minnesota is also home to dozens of other species, including three different species of catfish, three types of bullhead, sturgeon, whitefish, sunfish, four species of trout, yellow perch, long-nose gar and burbot.
Lake of the Woods
Lake of the Woods is popular spot for catching walleye and small- and largemouth bass. Head into the lake where the water depth is between 24 and 32 feet and use either minnows or jigs to catch walleye, which generally range between 15 and 17 inches. For bass, try a No. 3 Gold Mepps. The fish will vary in their habits, so ask around at a local angler's shop for the latest information on what the fish are biting.
White Bear Lake
Access to White Bear Lake in Ramsey County is located off of State Highway 96 on the northwest shore. The lake covers over 2,000 acres and is best for its population of bluegill, crappie and northern pike. Other fish such as largemouth bass and walleyes are also caught at White Bear Lake, but not as often.
Otter Tail Lake
Head out to Otter Tail Lake in Otter Tail County to catch walleye, northern pike and rock bass. The lake is a particularly deep one, going down more than 120 feet, and is over 13,000 acres in size. It is part of the chain of lakes along the Otter Tail River. Small- and largemouth bass, crappie and bluegill can also be caught here. Access the lake via Highway 78 on the east shore or Highway 72 on the west shore.
Ice Fishing
In winter when the lakes freeze over, it becomes ice fishing season. Check with a DNR Fisheries office to find out which lakes are safe to go to before you head out on the ice, as it can be very dangerous if the conditions are not appropriate. The most commonly caught fish in the winter are walleye, bluegill and crappie. Try Como Lake, which is generally good fishing for northern pike in the winter, or Wirth Lake near Minneapolis for walleye.
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