Minnesota Fishing Charters
Minnesota fishing charters range from guided walleye trips on vast northern lakes to smallmouth drifts down rocky rivers and seasonal ice house setups once the lakes lock up.
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Top Rated Charters in Minnesota
Minnesota Fishing Guide
Minnesota’s got serious variety—thousands of natural lakes, major rivers like the Mississippi and St. Croix, and even access to Lake Superior. You’ll see just as many folks trolling deep for lake trout as you will jigging weedlines for bass or bobber-fishing panfish with the kids. The walleye is king across much of the state, especially in places like Lake of the Woods, Leech Lake, and Mille Lacs. Most guided trips here are either half-day lake runs or full-day combos that mix trolling, drifting, and casting depending on conditions.
Lakes are the main draw, but don’t overlook river fishing. The Mississippi holds good smallmouth, pike, catfish, and even the occasional muskie. Some guides float sections in rafts or jet boats, especially mid-summer when lake weed growth makes shallow presentations tougher. In the north, remote border lakes near Canada produce big pike and lakers—guides here often run tiller boats and launch from gravel ramps or resort docks. Southern Minnesota leans more toward warmwater species and panfish.
You’ll see leeches, nightcrawlers, fatheads, and soft plastics depending on the time of year. Live bait rigs, slip bobbers, and jigs do most of the damage. Trolling crankbaits and spinner harnesses is common in deeper water, especially for summer walleye. Ice fishing kicks off in December and goes strong through February, with sleeper houses and day rentals both common.
Regional Fishing Highlights
Lake of the Woods & Rainy River
Walleye, sauger, and pike dominate here. In spring, the Rainy River sees heavy walleye action before the spawn, then anglers shift to the big lake. Summer brings trolling and spinner rig action offshore. In winter, ice shacks go out by the thousands. Guides often include transport and gear.
Mille Lacs Lake
This one’s known for giant smallmouth, decent walleye when regulations allow, and surprising numbers of muskie. Jigging rock reefs and drop-offs is the usual plan. Some charters offer combo trips—bass in the morning, muskie trolling late. It’s a wind-prone lake, so expect to fish structure close to shore if the weather turns.
Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA)
Guided trips here are paddle-based—canoe-in multi-day setups for serious solitude. Smallmouth and lake trout are mainstays, with some pike and even brook trout in select lakes. No motors, no crowds, just packs, portages, and pure fishing.
Twin Cities Metro Lakes & Rivers
Metro guides focus on convenience—short drives, quick trips, and mixed-bag fishing. Pool 2 of the Mississippi is catch-and-release only but produces big walleyes and bass. Lake Minnetonka offers pike, largemouth, and panfish, especially good for family outings.
Duluth & Lake Superior
Charters out of Duluth troll for lake trout, salmon, and browns. It’s more like a Great Lakes deep-water trip—plan for heavier gear and longer runs offshore. Fall can be especially good for nearshore trolling and river-mouth browns.
Fishing Seasons in Minnesota
Spring
Walleye opener is the big kickoff—usually around mid-May. Early fishing focuses on shallow sand, gravel, and current edges. Jigs and minnows rule. Crappie move into the shallows too. Northern pike are active right after ice-out and hit spinnerbaits and deadbait rigs.
Summer
Classic mixed-bag season. Walleye shift deeper—think leadcore, bottom bouncers, or night trolling. Smallmouth and largemouth move into structure and weed edges. Muskies start showing up more consistently on larger lakes. Panfish are thick in cabbage and around docks.
Fall
One of the best windows for trophy fish. Walleye put on the feed bag—jigging and trolling crankbaits in 15–25 feet is common. Muskies turn aggressive, especially with the first hard frosts. Rivers see smallmouth action until water temps drop into the 40s.
Winter
Hardwater season. Most lakes lock up by late December. Walleye, perch, and panfish are top targets—deadsticks and spoons are the go-to rigs. Bigger lakes support sleeper fish house rentals, while smaller ones are perfect for walk-on or snowmobile setups.
Most Popular Gamefish in Minnesota
- Walleye – 14–28 inches. Caught on jigs, spinners, and crankbaits in lakes and rivers. Key depths shift with season—shallow in spring, deep in summer, mid-range fall.
- Smallmouth Bass – 12–20 inches. Found around rock piles, river current seams, and mid-lake humps. Soft plastics and topwater work well in summer.
- Northern Pike – 20–40 inches. Targeted with spoons, spinnerbaits, and live bait rigs. Weed edges, drop-offs, and winter tip-ups all produce.
- Muskellunge – 36–50+ inches. Trolled with big plugs or casted with large bucktails. Key structure includes points, saddles, and submerged weedbeds.
- Crappie – 8–14 inches. Fished near weedlines, docks, and brush using minnows or small jigs. Excellent through the ice on tungsten and plastics.
- Lake Trout – 18–30 inches. Deepwater trolling on Lake Superior and BWCA lakes. Also jigged through the ice in winter.
- Channel Catfish – 16–30 inches. Mostly caught in southern rivers and backwaters using cut bait or stinkbait rigs.
Minnesota Fishing FAQs
Do I need a fishing license to go out on a Minnesota charter?
Yes, all anglers 16 and older need a Minnesota fishing license, even on a guided trip. You can buy one online or at local bait shops.
What’s the best time of year for walleye fishing in Minnesota?
Mid-May through June is prime for shallow jig bites. Fall is another great window, especially for big fish staging for winter.
Can we keep fish on a Minnesota charter?
Usually yes, but it depends on the lake and the species. Some places like Mille Lacs have slot limits or seasonal closures.
Are there guided ice fishing trips in Minnesota?
Absolutely. Many outfits offer heated fish houses, transportation, and all gear included. Great way to get on the ice safely.
What gear should I bring for a summer fishing trip?
Most guides supply rods and tackle. Bring weather-appropriate clothing, sunglasses, snacks, and a cooler if you plan to keep fish.
Can kids come on fishing charters in Minnesota?
Yes, many guides welcome families and know how to target action species like panfish or bass to keep it fun for younger anglers.
Where can I fish for trophy muskies in Minnesota?
Lakes like Vermilion, Mille Lacs, and White Bear Lake have big fish. Fall trolling or summer casting near weedlines is key.
What’s biting on Lake Superior out of Duluth?
Lake trout, coho salmon, and browns are the usual targets. Trolling with downriggers and spoons is standard out there.
How do Minnesota fishing charters handle bad weather?
Most reschedule or delay trips due to high winds or lightning. Rain alone usually doesn’t cancel unless safety’s a concern.