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Trout Fishing In Minnesota

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Guide to fishing for rainbow, brook, brown and lake trout in local lakes and streams.

By AA-Fishing Staff Writers

Trout fishing in Minnesota

Minnesota offers excellent trout fishing, with various trout species available in its lakes and rivers. The purpose of this page is to share basic information about trout fishing and identify trout fishing waters in the state. Anglers can pursue both native and stocked trout species, each providing unique angling experiences.

One of the most sought-after trout species in Minnesota is the brook trout, known for its beautiful colors and feisty nature. These native trout can be found in select cold-water streams, particularly in the northeastern part of the state. Anglers often enjoy the challenge of catching brook trout in scenic settings, where they can use fly fishing techniques or spinners to entice these elusive fish.

Another popular trout species found in Minnesota is the rainbow trout. These fish are stocked in many lakes and rivers throughout the state, providing anglers with ample opportunities for catching them. Rainbow trout are known for their acrobatic jumps and strong fights, making them a thrilling catch. Anglers can target rainbow trout using a variety of baits and lures, such as flies, spinners, or baited hooks.

Brown trout are also present in certain Minnesota waters, particularly in rivers such as the South Branch Root River and Whitewater River. These trout can be challenging to catch due to their wary nature and preference for hiding in cover. However, the rewards of landing a trophy-sized brown trout make the pursuit worthwhile for dedicated anglers.

Minnesota's lakes and rivers offer excellent trout fishing opportunities, with designated trout lakes and streams as well as sections of larger rivers providing prime angling locations. Popular trout fishing destinations include the North Shore of Lake Superior, where anglers can target steelhead trout and lake trout. In addition, the southeastern part of the state, with its cold-water streams, is known for its trout fishing opportunities.

Minnesota boasts several state records for trout caught within its waters. These records reflect the impressive size and quality of trout that can be found in the state. Anglers can challenge these records and aim to catch their personal best by exploring Minnesota's trout fishing destinations.

Whether it's the thrill of catching native brook trout in a remote stream or battling a rainbow trout in a stocked lake, trout fishing in Minnesota offers a diverse and rewarding angling experience. Anglers can immerse themselves in the state's beautiful natural surroundings while pursuing these iconic fish species. With its wealth of trout fishing options, Minnesota is a top destination for anglers seeking a memorable trout fishing adventure.

Trout Fishing Waters

There is lots of water in MN with trout of one kind or another. Many of the rivers and streams have trout as do Lake of the Woods and Lake Superior.

Fishing Boats For Rent In Minnesota

Trout Species In The State

Rainbow Trout

Rainbow trout

World record: 42 lbs 2 oz

State Record: 16 lbs 6 oz

Brook Trout

Brook trout

World record: 14 lbs 8 oz

State Record: 6 lbs 5 oz

Brown Trout

Brown trout

World record: 40 lbs 4 oz

State Record: 16 lbs 12 oz

Lake Trout

Lake trout

World record: 72 lbs 0 oz

State Record: 43 lbs 8 oz

Click the images and links above for species details.

Select the best trout lures and baits

Trout spinners, crankbaits and jerkbaits work well for shallow, reasonably active fish. Salmon eggs, worms and prepared baits will work at virtually all depths.

Minnesota State Record Trout

The state record rainbow trout was caught from the Devil Track River.

The state record brook trout was taken out of the Pigeon River.

The state record brown trout came from Lake Superior.

The state record lake trout was caught in Lake Superior.

The state record tiger trout, 2 lbs 9 oz, was taken out of Mill Creek.

Minnesota practices several trout management programs including stocking of trout in a variety of Minnesota fishing waters. Visit the Minnesota Minnesota Department Of Natural Resources website for additional information on trout and trout stocking schedules in Minnesota.

Watch trout fishing videos to see trout anglers in action.

The 5 primary trouts are the rainbow, brook, brown, cutthroat and lake trout. Browns are considered the most difficult to catch and brookies are the easiest. Pure cold water is key to survival of the trouts.

Additional trout information

Trout Conservation
Trout Unlimited

 

Trout locations and info, by state.

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