Northern Minnesota may get all the press and most of the attention when it comes to fishing in the state, but the southeastern area of the state has some quality fishing of its own. Dominated by a web of crystal clear streams and creeks, the southeastern region also contains a few of the state's famous lakes and some scenic rivers. Trout, muskie, northern pike, walleye and bass can all be found in the region, making it some of the most diverse fishing grounds in the state.
Trout Streams
Southeastern Minnesota features nearly 700 miles of designated trout streams that weave through lush valleys carved out by spring-fed waters. The cold waters provide pristine habitat for brown, brook and rainbow trout. Anglers can begin fishing the meandering waters in mid-April each year and can enjoy peak activity through early June. Scenery and seclusion usually accompany trout anglers in this part of the state as long walks up the crystal waters usually hold the best honey holes.
Lakes
In defiance of Minnesota's moniker as being the land of 10,000 lakes, the southeastern portion of the state contains just a small portion of the famous total. The Faribault area contains the biggest cluster of lakes in the region including French, a rare fertile muskie lake. These elusive behemoths can reach over 50 pounds and require heavy-duty tackle to land. Northern pike, walleye, bass and panfish are also abundant in the few natural southeastern lakes.
Rivers
The Mississippi River runs through a broad valley along southeastern Minnesota's border with Wisconsin and is a popular destination for anglers seeking a variety of fish. The Zumbro and Cannon rivers make their way through limestone bluffs en route to their eventual meeting with the Mississippi and provide good northern and bass action. The Root and Whitewater Rivers are scenic waterways fed by numerous trout stream tributaries that hold good populations of trout as well as feisty smallmouth bass.
Reservoirs
While natural lakes in southeastern Minnesota are few, man-made reservoirs are fewer. Lake Pepin is a wide reservoir created by a dam in the Mississippi River at Red Wing. The reservoir holds a variety of game fish and is the largest body of water in the region. Tiny Foster-Arend pond in Rochester is managed for stream trout and is the only non-stream body of water in southeastern Minnesota to hold that species. Bear Creek Reservoir east of Rochester holds large populations of largemouth bass, crappie and channel catfish. Fish it from the shore or by canoe. Motors aren't allowed on the water.
Considerations
Fishing licenses are required for all resident and non-resident anglers over 16 years of age. Anglers fishing in designated trout waters such as Foster-Arend reservoir, the Whitewater and Root rivers, and all trout streams must also possess an additional trout stamp with their license. Annual licenses are valid through April 30th of the following year of purchase. Open seasons vary by species and special regulations may be in effect on some waters.
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