Fishing For Salmon In Minnesota

Guide to fishing for Atlantic and coho salmon in MN.

By AA-Fishing Staff Writers

Minnesota is not typically known for its salmon fishing opportunities. While the state boasts an abundance of lakes and rivers, it does not have native populations of salmon. However, there are some limited opportunities for anglers to catch salmon in Minnesota.

Lake Superior is the primary destination for salmon fishing in Minnesota. This vast and deep freshwater lake provides an environment suitable for salmon species, including Chinook (King) salmon and coho salmon. These salmon species are not native to Lake Superior but have been introduced and are now thriving. Anglers can target salmon by trolling with downriggers, using spoons, flashers, or trolling flies. The North Shore area, including the waters near Duluth, is a popular spot for salmon fishing on Lake Superior.

Anglers should note that salmon fishing on Lake Superior is subject to regulations and may have specific seasons, limits, and gear restrictions. It is important to check the current fishing regulations and obtain any necessary licenses or permits before engaging in salmon fishing in Minnesota.

While Minnesota may not be widely recognized as a premier salmon fishing destination, the opportunities available on Lake Superior provide anglers with a chance to experience the thrill of landing these powerful and prized fish. The combination of the lake's scenic beauty, the challenge of hooking into a salmon, and the possibility of reeling in a trophy-sized fish makes salmon fishing on Lake Superior a memorable experience for those who venture out onto the water.

Salmon Fishing Water in Minnesota

If you fish for salmon in MN you are pretty much restricted to Lake Superior and the tributary waters flowing into it. Many of these rivers are the natural migration routes for spawning.

Minnesota Salmon Fishing

The preferred method for catching salmon is fly fishing. Depending on the activity level, salmon may be caught on wet or dry flies, as well as a variety of other lures and baits.

Click the images and links above for species details.

Minnesota State Record Salmon

The state record Atlantic salmon was caught from the Baptism River.

The state record chinook salmon (tie) one from the Poplar River, one from Lake Superior.

The state record coho salmon was caught in Lake Superior.

The record kokanee salmon was taken out of Caribou Lake

The state record pink salmon was caught from the Cascade River.

The preferred method for catching salmon is fly fishing. Depending on the activity level, salmon may be caught on wet or dry flies. For more details check here for articles about fly fishing.

About The Pacific Salmon Family

Pacific Salmon are born in and remain in freshwater streams for the early years of life. The number varies by species. Afterward they migrate to the Pacific Ocean waters where they bulk up and prepare for their once in a lifetime spawning run up the freshwater stream where they were born. They will instinctively return to their birthplace, spawn and die. They are found in the streams which empty into the ocean, and adjoining ocean waters.

Salmon Organizations

Atlantic Salmon Federation

Atlantic Salmon Trust

Atlantic Salmon Museum

Pacific Salmon Commission

Pacific Salmon Foundation

Salmon fishing waters and information, by state.