Minnesota is a paradise for anglers, with its 11,842 lakes offering a diverse range of fish species and exciting fishing opportunities. From legendary walleye fishing to a plethora of other species, including largemouth and smallmouth bass, northern pike, and trout, Minnesota’s lakes are home to some of the best fishing in the country.

10,000 Lakes

• Minnesota is home to 11,842 lakes with a surface area of at least 10 acres, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.
• These lakes offer a diverse range of fishing opportunities, from small lakes with abundant panfish to large lakes with trophy walleye and pike.
• Some of the most famous lakes in Minnesota include Mille Lacs, Lake Minnetonka, Leech Lake, and many others.

Many Species

Minnesota’s lakes are home to a wide variety of fish species, including walleye, largemouth and smallmouth bass, northern pike, muskie, sauger, crappie, bluegill, perch, sturgeon, catfish, lake trout, brook trout, brown trout, rainbow trout, steelhead, splake, salmon, burbot, and whitefish.

Some of these species are more abundant in certain lakes, while others can be found throughout the state.