Fishing Fun: 8 Minnesota State Parks to Reel in the Big One

With more than 10,000 lakes and countless rivers, Minnesota is a fishing paradise. Its state parks not only offer natural beauty and recreation but also provide some of the best angling opportunities in the Midwest. Whether you’re casting for walleye, reeling in northern pike or enjoying a quiet day with a bobber and bluegill, these Minnesota state parks stand out for fishing adventures.

1. Lake Vermilion - Soudan Underground Mine State Park

Located in Soudan in northern Minnesota, Lake Vermilion–Soudan Underground Mine State Park is a top destination for serious anglers. Lake Vermilion boasts over 40,000 acres of water and is known for producing trophy-sized walleye, muskellunge and northern pike. With more than 300 miles of shoreline, the fishing opportunities here are endless. 

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Walleye, northern pike, mukellunge 
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore

2. Itasca State Park

Famous as the headwaters of the Mississippi River, Itasca State Park is a fishing gem in Grand Rapids. Lake Itasca offers anglers a chance to catch northern pike, largemouth bass and panfish. The park’s boat access makes it easy to get out on the water if you’re arriving from a private boat lift rental or a marina, while shoreline fishing is ideal for families looking for a relaxed outing. 

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Panfish, northern pike, largemouth bass
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore

3. Mille Lacs Kathio State Park

Set along the shores of Mille Lacs Lake, Mille Lacs Kathio State Park in Onamia is one of Minnesota’s premier walleye lakes. It offers easy access to world-class fishing from private boat docks for rent. Walleye, smallmouth bass and muskie are the main draws. With boat launches nearby, anglers can explore deeper waters, while shore casting near the park often yields excellent results. 

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Walleye, smallmouth bass, muskie
• Fishing Type: Shore, boat 

4. Father Hennepin State Park

Also situated on Mille Lacs Lake in Isle, Father Hennepin State Park has sandy beaches, campgrounds and excellent fishing. Its location on the southeast shore gives anglers prime access to walleye, northern pike and perch. It’s a great park for combining fishing with swimming and family recreation. 

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Northern pike, perch, walleye
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore

5. Big Stone Lake State Park

Located in Ortonville, on the western edge of Minnesota, Big Stone Lake State Park is a favorite for spring and summer fishing. The 26-mile-long lake straddles the border with South Dakota and is renowned for walleye, bluegill and perch. With its long, narrow shape, the lake offers anglers calmer waters for boat or shore fishing. 

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Bluegill, perch, walleye
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore

6. Bear Head Lake State Park

Bear Head Lake State Park is a serene destination in Ely that’s known for its pristine waters and quiet setting. Anglers can target walleye, bass and crappie in a more secluded environment than some of the larger and busier lakes. The park’s canoe routes also make it popular for those who enjoy combining fishing with a day of paddling.  

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Bass, crappie, walleye
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore, kayak

7. Scenic State Park

True to its name, Bigfork’s Scenic State Park offers stunning natural views alongside excellent fishing conditions. Sandwick and Coon Lakes are both within the park, providing opportunities to catch northern pike, walleye and crappie. With its rustic charm and wilderness ambiance, it’s perfect for anglers looking for a quiet and back-to-nature fishing trip from private boat slip rentals or marinas.  

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Walleye, crappie, northern pike
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore

8. Tettgouche State Park 

Lake Superior’s Tettegouche State Park, in Silver Bay, sits along the lake’s north shore. It spans nearly 9,346 acres and offers diverse landscapes - including six inland lakes, rivers, waterfalls and a dramatic shoreline - making it a rich setting for anglers of all styles. The lake has walleye, bass, panfish and northern pike.

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Bass, panfish, northern pike, walleye
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore