Minnesota is literally dotted with thousands of lakes. According to the state of Minnesota, 11,842 lakes of at least ten acres exist within the state. All of these lakes are teeming with fish, and the vast majority have docks where you can fish.
According to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), late spring is the best time to shore fish in Minnesota. This is because fish are waking up after a long winter and are breeding and feeding near the shoreline, according to the Minnesota DNR. You cannot legally catch walleye or northern pike until mid-May, while muskie and bass season begins in late May. The Minnesota DNR states that summer is the worst time for shore fishing, while fall is a second peak season due to voraciously-feeding fish.
According to Shore Fishing, using the fish's natural food source for bait is best. For artificial lures, spinner baits work best for bass; plastic worms are good for walleye; while pike prefer plastic spoons. According to the Minnesota DNR, you can find live bait shops throughout the state.
Shore fishing in Minnesota has many advantages over boat fishing. According to the Minnesota DNR, shore fishing is significantly cheaper than boat fishing. This is because you do not have to pay for a boat or boat-related expenses such as gasoline or oil. Another positive aspect of shore fishing is that it builds fishing skill, due to not being able to chase fish in a boat.
Minnesota requires all fishers to possess a current fishing license. The cost of a Minnesota shore fishing license was $18 as of August 2010. Also, make sure to check the Minnesota DNR website for current fishing seasons, as you can be fined for catching fish that are out of season.
