Photo Credit: Paddle Hoppers

1. Lake of the Woods.

Lake of the Woods is a true angler's paradise located in the northernmost region of Minnesota. This massive body of water is renowned for its exceptional walleye fishing. Using jigs or live bait rigs with minnows is a popular choice for targeting these elusive fish. The record catch for this location was an impressive 17-pound, 8-ounce walleye caught in May 2019. Spring and early summer offer the best fishing opportunities here.

2. Mille Lacs Lake.

Mille Lacs Lake is famous for its abundant smallmouth bass population. Cast soft plastic baits or crankbaits near rocky structures for a chance at landing a trophy-sized bass. The record catch for this location is a 8-pound, 2-ounce smallmouth bass caught in July 2020. Late spring to early fall is the prime time to explore this fishing gem.

3. Mississippi River.

The Mississippi River, flowing through Minnesota, presents a diverse fishing experience. Target species include channel catfish and smallmouth bass. Stink bait or cut bait is effective for catfish, while soft plastic lures attract smallmouth bass. The record catfish catch here was a 38-pound channel catfish in August 2018. Fishing is excellent during the summer months.

4. Leech Lake.

Leech Lake is a top destination for walleye fishing. Trolling with crankbaits or live bait rigs with leeches yields excellent results. The record walleye catch stands at 14 pounds, 13 ounces, caught in June 2017. Spring and early summer are the prime seasons for walleye fishing here.

5. Lake Vermilion.

Lake Vermilion offers outstanding fishing for muskellunge, commonly known as muskie. Large spinnerbaits and jerkbaits are go-to lures for these fierce predators. The record muskie catch on this lake was a 54-inch, 56-pound monster caught in September 2015. Late summer and early fall are the best times to chase after these elusive giants.

6. Gull Lake.

Gull Lake is famous for its thriving northern pike population. Daredevle spoons and large swimbaits are effective for enticing these aggressive predators. The record northern pike catch was a 45-inch, 30-pound monster caught in July 2019. Spring and early summer offer the best chances to reel in a trophy pike.

7. Otter Tail Lake.

Otter Tail Lake boasts excellent largemouth bass fishing. Soft plastic worms and frogs are great choices for luring in these bass. The record largemouth bass catch here was a 8-pound, 9-ounce specimen caught in June 2016. Late spring to early summer is the prime season for largemouth bass action.

8. Rainy Lake.

Rainy Lake is a prime location for fishing trophy-sized northern pike. Large spoons and swimbaits are effective for enticing these predators. The record northern pike catch was a 45-inch, 45-pound fish caught in July 2018. Late spring to early summer is the ideal time for pursuing trophy northern pike.

9. Big Stone Lake.

Big Stone Lake is known for its excellent bluegill fishing. Small jigs and live bait are go-to options for targeting these panfish. The record bluegill catch here was a 2-pound, 2-ounce fish caught in May 2017. Spring and early summer offer the best bluegill fishing opportunities.

10. Whitefish Chain of Lakes.

The Whitefish Chain of Lakes offers diverse fishing opportunities, including largemouth bass and panfish. Soft plastics and small jigs are effective for both species. The record largemouth bass catch was a 8-pound, 4-ounce fish caught in June 2019. Late spring through summer is the prime season for fishing on these interconnected lakes.

11. Cass Lake.

Cass Lake is a great destination for walleye fishing. Troll with crankbaits or drift with live bait rigs for success. The record walleye catch was a 15-pound, 9-ounce fish caught in May 2015. Spring and early summer offer the best walleye action.

12. Lake Winnibigoshish.

Lake Winnibigoshish, also known as "Lake Winnie," is renowned for jumbo perch fishing. Small jigs tipped with minnows or worms are effective for these tasty fish. The record perch catch was a 1-pound, 15-ounce fish caught in September 2020. Fall is the prime time for targeting jumbo perch.

13. Bemidji Lake.

Bemidji Lake is a prime spot for muskie fishing. Large bucktail spinners and topwater lures are effective for these apex predators. The record muskie catch was a 53-inch, 49-pound fish caught in August 2017. Late summer and early fall are ideal for muskie enthusiasts.

14. Big Sandy Lake.

Big Sandy Lake offers excellent fishing for black crappie. Small jigs and minnows are top choices for targeting these panfish. The record crappie catch was a 2-pound, 6-ounce fish caught in May 2016. Spring and early summer are the prime seasons for crappie fishing.

15. Lake Minnetonka.

Lake Minnetonka provides a variety of fishing opportunities, including largemouth bass and walleye. Spinnerbaits and soft plastics work well for bass, while live bait rigs are effective for walleye. The record largemouth bass catch was a 9-pound, 12-ounce fish caught in June 2018. Spring and summer offer great fishing on this popular lake.

16. Pokegama Lake.

Pokegama Lake is known for its smallmouth bass fishing. Drop shot rigs and jerkbaits are effective for targeting these spirited fish. The record smallmouth bass catch was a 5-pound, 4-ounce fish caught in July 2019. Spring and early summer are the prime times to catch smallmouth bass.

17. Lake Pepin.

Lake Pepin, located on the Mississippi River, offers excellent catfish fishing. Cut bait and stink bait are popular choices for enticing these bottom-dwelling giants. The record catfish catch was a 45-pound flathead catfish caught in August 2016. Summer is the prime season for catfish enthusiasts.

18. Prior Lake.

Prior Lake is a prime location for largemouth bass fishing. Soft plastics and topwater lures are effective for these aggressive fish. The record largemouth bass catch was a 9-pound, 5-ounce fish caught in June 2020. Spring and summer are the best seasons for targeting largemouth bass.

19. Cross Lake.

Cross Lake is known for its walleye fishing. Jigs and live bait rigs are effective for enticing these popular game fish. The record walleye catch was a 14-pound, 2-ounce fish caught in May 2019. Spring and early summer are the prime times for walleye action.

20. Medicine Lake.

Medicine Lake offers excellent fishing for northern pike. Large spoons and swimbaits are effective for these predatory fish. The record northern pike catch was a 35-pound fish caught in June 2017. Spring and early summer are the ideal times for northern pike fishing.

Conclusion:

Photo Credit: Paddle Hoppers

Minnesota's pristine lakes and rivers provide the ideal backdrop for combining the serenity of stand-up paddle boarding with the thrill of fishing. From the northern pike-infested waters of Lake of the Woods to the muskie-filled depths of Lake Vermilion, each location offers a unique experience for SUP fishing enthusiasts. Whether you're drawn by the prospect of landing trophy-sized walleye or simply yearn for the connection to nature that SUP fishing provides, Minnesota's diverse aquatic landscapes are ready to be explored. Cast your line, balance on your board, and embark on an unforgettable journey where adventure and tranquility converge.

Glide Paddle Boards SUP Fishing Tips. 

Paddle Board Fishing: A Comprehensive Guide.

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Looking for the best paddle boarding spots in the United States? We've got you covered with The best places to paddle board in the United States a state by state tour of where to paddle board with Glide Paddle Boards. Explore our recommended locations and make the most of your paddle boarding adventures.

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