Freshwater Fishing Near Minneapolis

Those traveling to Minneapolis for business can get in a bit of f R&R by sampling some of the freshwater fishing available in the surrounding areas. The closest lake to Minneapolis is Lake Minnewashta Regional Park, a 340-acre park located 15 miles from Minneapolis in Carver County. Two boat accesses located within the park can accommodate a maximum of 35 vehicles with boat trailers. In addition, a fishing pier is located west of the beach area at picnic area #1.

The weeds and lily pads provide ideal cover for the bluegills, crappie, pike, walleye and largemouth bass that inhabit this lake. Anglers wishing to take some fish home should note that the largemouth bass are catch and release only.

Boaters need to be mindful of the presence of Eurasian watermilfoil, a plant that was carried to Minnesota lakes by tankers from Asia and the aqua culture (e.g., pet shops and landscaping companies), as well as recreational boaters who inadvertently transported this plant to landlocked lakes.

Other water sports one can find on this lake include jet skis, tubing, and water-skiing. While the park is still being developed, to date one can find a swimming beach, bathhouse, reservable picnic shelters, volleyball courts, a creative playground, and a concession stand.

A daily or annual parking permit is required to park in Carver County Park parking lots. Purchase a permit via cash or check either at the park entrance through the gate house during the summer months or by using the honor box which is available year round.

Five miles north of Lake Minnewashta, one can cast their line into Lake Minnetonka, a 14,528-acre lake that contains black bullhead, black crappie, bluegill, bowfin, carp, green sunfish, hybrid sunfish, largemouth bass, muskellunge, northern pike, pumpkinseed, rock bass, walleye, white sucker, yellow bullhead, and yellow perch.