Anglers really are spoiled for choice in Minnesota. Between monster Muskie, huge Pike, and half a dozen different salmonids, there’s never a bad time to go fishing. In fact, there’s as much variety in what you can catch as where you can do it – big words, in “The Land of 10,000 Lakes.” There’s one species that trumps all the others, though, enough to be crowned the Minnesota state fish: the mighty Walleye.
In many ways, Walleye are the perfect game fish. They’re big, tough, and stubborn. And on top of all that, they’re delicious! In this article, you can learn what makes Minnesota such a great place to catch them, as well as when and where to do so.
The Unbeatable Minnesota Walleye Record
One of the first things you should know about Minnesota’s Walleye is that they’re big. Really big. Your average catch is around 1–4 pounds, but 8-pounders are a recurring sight and double-digit fish show up each year. If you’re looking to reel in monster Walleye, Minnesota is the place to do it.
However, you’ll need to set your sights a lot higher if you want to beat the state record. Minnesota’s biggest Walleye was caught over 40 years ago on the Sea Gull River. It weighed in at an incredible 17 pounds, 8 ounces and was just shy of 3 feet long! It’s not a world record, but it’s certainly a life’s dream for many Minnesotan anglers.
When and Where to Catch the Minnesota State Fish
Feel like you have a chance of beating the record? You have plenty of options of when and where to do so. Minnesota’s famous for having 10,000 lakes, but the real number is actually even higher. And bear in mind that one of those is Lake Superior, the largest body of freshwater in the world. With so much water, where do you even start?
Some of the best Walleye fishing in Minnesota is on Mille Lacs and Lake of the Woods, both of which compete for the title of “Walleye Capital of the World.” Want to get off the beaten track? Try exploring the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness – all 1,000,000 acres of it. If not, you can find keeper fish in lakes all around the suburbs of Minneapolis.
The best time to catch Minnesota’s state fish is late spring and early summer. The season and limits vary with the waters you’re fishing, but May and June generally have the best bite. You can find hot action in cold weather, too. Ice fishing is a state-wide passion, and another great way to catch Walleye.
Minnesota Walleye: a Great Place for a Great Fish
Walleye has been the Minnesota state fish since 1965, and it’s easy to see why. They grow big and mean in the North Star State’s endless lakes. You can catch them come snow or shine, and at the end, you’ll have a delicious dinner for all your efforts.
Ever caught a Walleye in Minnesota? What’s the state fish where you’re from? Let us know your thoughts and fishing stories in the comments below!
