The lakes of northern Minnesota are popular spots during the summer. While there is an abundance of water-based activities from which to choose, many people who spend time on the water do so with a fishing pole in their hand. In northern Minnesota, they primarily target walleyes, but also bass, panfish and trout.
Fishing Regulations
Anglers who fish in northern Minnesota, and other parts of the state, too, must follow certain regulations. A fishing license is necessary to go fishing. The state sells a variety of license types for individuals, couples and families. Additionally, you must be aware of daily harvest limits. The state has statewide limits for game fish species, and special regulations on some lakes. Check the fishing regulations booklet for detailed information on fish limits and lakes with special regulations.
Fish Species
Walleyes are the state fish of Minnesota and fishermen in northern Minnesota target them extensively, but a variety of other species are available, too. The deep, rocky lakes in northern Minnesota are productive for smallmouth bass, while cold-water lakes hold fish like lake trout and rainbow trout. Many lakes have good populations of crappies, northern pike and sunfish, and some lakes also have muskies. To learn more about the lake you plan to fish, check out the "Lake Finder" section of the website of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. There, you can find information about the fish populations in various lakes, as well as about physical characteristics of the lakes and the locations of public access.
Lakes
Some of the best-known fishing lakes in the state are in northern Minnesota. Lake of the Woods, for example, is a prime destination for walleyes, muskies and smallmouth bass. Upper Red Lake in northwestern Minnesota is a good destination for crappies, northern pike and walleyes. On the opposite side of the state, Lake Vermilion attracts muskie and walleye anglers. For every large, well-known lake, there are many more that are smaller and receive less fishing pressure. On some lakes in northern Minnesota--particularly in the northeast--you could have fantastic trout or walleye fishing without ever seeing another fisherman.
Walleyes
Walleye fishing in northern Minnesota during the summer is a deep, structure-fishing game. While walleyes are shallow during the spring, they move to deep drop-offs, humps and reefs during the summer months. One of the best ways to find schools of walleyes during the summer is to troll or drift a Lindy Rig. The rig consists of a sliding sinker, swivel, leader and plain hook tipped with a leech, minnow or nightcrawler. Use a weight that is just heavy enough to keep the rig on the bottom and make sure you bait stays lively. Once you catch a walleye or two, make note of the spot and fish it more thoroughly. A lead-head jig and live bait is a good option.
Night Fishing
The lakes are a prime draw during the summer in northern Minnesota, and all the recreational activity can affect fish. That's especially true of walleyes and muskies. If you're fishing during the day and having trouble catching fish, consider waiting until after the sun sets and the recreational boaters head in. Look for walleyes around shallow rocks and weed beds. Crankbaits are a good option for finding and catching them. On Lake Vermilion in northern Minnesota, muskie fishing has become synonymous with muskie fishing. But it can work on any muskie lake. Throw topwater lures and target the same spots you would during the day. Vegetation is good, as are the edges of drop-offs and the top of reefs and humps.
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