Fish in Central Minnesota
Before you decide to swing by Minnesota, you probably want to know what kinds of fish you can expect from the Minnesota waters. Keep in mind that different lakes may have different species of fish that adapted from one of these species.
- Bass
- Bigmouth Buffalo
- Bluegill
- Bowfin
- Burbot
- Catfish
- Crappie
- Herring
- Lake Sturgeon
- Long-nose Gar
- Muskellunge
- Northern Pike
- Salmon
- Sunfish
- Trout
- Walleye
- White Sucker
- Yellow Perch
Top Fishing Spots
Now that you have an idea of the kinds of fish you'll be able to catch, you need to find the perfect fishing spot. Thankfully, there are many lakes and rivers to choose from that won't take you too far from the room at our resort. Your fishing adventure starts here!
Crow Wing Chain of Lakes
Considered a "complex of lakes, wetlands, and forests," the Crow Wing Chain of Lakes is an excellent place to start fishing. There are over 2000 miles of shoreline counting every lake and river, which should be more than enough for any one fisherman! The Eighth Crow Wing Lake is immediately behind our resort!
Lake Belle Taine
While not a full-on complex like Crow Wing, this lake offers the perfect fishing experience. It's one of the closest lakes to Starlight Bay Resort. It offers boat rentals for those who want to get on top of the water. It comes in at 25 miles of shoreline. While you may not have as much area to explore as other lakes, you'll save more time for fishing rather than driving, and you'll have a more focused fishing experience.
Shallow Lake/Deer Lake
Sitting on the west side of Nevis, you have two small lakes that are highly regarded as fishing spots. Shallow Lake and Deer Lake are basically connected to Lake Belle Taine, and while one of them is called shallow, it is actually just as deep as the others (85 feet). Here you can find Black Bullheads, Largemouth Bass, and many more kinds of fish.
Big Bass Lake
Another perfectly-sized lake, Big Bass is perfect for shore fishing and fly fishing. It is only 18 feet at its deepest point but is seven miles long. Those wanting to explore more will find plenty of coves and islands that offer a unique fishing experience you can't have anywhere else.
When to Fish
Fortunately for fishermen, there is basically year-round fishing available. While you may want to book your stay to match the season of a specific fish if you just love the thrill of hooking something on the line, come anytime!
Ice fishing is a true Minnesotan experience that you must try at least once. The season begins in December and goes through early to mid-March. Follow any local guidelines regarding which lakes are safe to walk on.
We hope you choose to stay at the Starlight Bay Resort this fishing season! We have a centralized location, a diverse variety of fish to catch, and Minnesotan hospitality.
