Trout Fishing In Minnesota

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

By AA-Fishing Staff Writers

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.

---

Fishing For Rainbow Trout

Rainbow trout are one of the most fished for trout species in the state, and can be found in numerous New Mexico lakes and rivers. Known for its tasty pink flesh, rainbows are a favorite among the vast majority of trout anglers in the state. It also appeals to the fly fisherman as it can be caught on flies as well as other small baits and lures. It feeds on small insects, minnows, crustaceans and worms. It is ideal for both sport and dining pleasure. More...

---

Fishing For Brook Trout

Brook trout, with their stunning colors and willingness to bite, can be found in remote mountain streams and creeks across the state. These small but feisty fish can provide an exciting fishing experience for those willing to explore New Mexico's more secluded and scenic locations. The primary food source of brookies is small insects, mollusks, crustaceans and other small fishes. In lakes where brook trout are stocked, shade over shallow cover is a great place to start. 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.More...

---

Fishing For Brown Trout

Brown trout, another prized trout species, can be found in select New Mexico lakes and rivers. Many of these fisheries are attracting anglers from near and far. These elusive and wary fish offer a challenge to anglers, requiring stealthy presentations and precise casting to entice a bite. Brown trout feed on worms, minnows, insects and crustaceans. Larger browns can be taken on jerkbaits, small crankbaits and spinners. 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. More...

---

Fishing For Lake Trout

Lake trout are by far the largest of the trouts. They live in deep, cold lakes and feeds on virtually all forms of flesh which exist in its home waters. It's rich flaky flesh makes it a tasty table favorite. During early spring, lake trout can often be found in the shallows of lakes, readily taking dry flies, wet flies, and other slow-moving presentations. As surface temperatures rise, these trout typically migrate to deeper waters, prompting anglers to employ trolling with heavier tackle as the primary technique using spoons and baitfish-imitating lures. More...

---

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.

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.

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 Unlimited

Trout locations and info, by state.

091924*