The Minnesota River is one of the most rewarding places to cast a line in the Midwest. Flowing more than 300 miles from Big Stone Lake all the way to the Mississippi River, it offers an incredible mix of quiet, scenic stretches and easily accessible spots near cities. In 2025, anglers can expect great runs of walleye, channel catfish, flatheads, northern pike, and smallmouth bass. Whether you prefer shore fishing or drifting from a boat, the Minnesota River delivers that classic blend of calm water and big bites. Here are my top 10 fishing spots for this season — places that I’ve personally found to be productive, scenic, and worth a weekend road trip.
If you’re looking for strong current and big fish, the stretch below Rapidan Dam is hard to beat. It’s a favorite for locals chasing trophy flathead catfish and walleye. The mixing of deep holes and fast current creates ideal feeding zones.
Best for: Walleye, Catfish, Northern Pike
Best time: Late spring through early fall
Access: Rapidan County Park has boat launches and shore access.
Tip: Try fishing with cut bait or live chubs after sunset for big flatheads.
More info: Greater Mankato Fishing Guide
2. Carver to Chaska Bend (Riverside Park Area)
Just southwest of the Twin Cities, the Carver to Chaska section offers an easy escape from city life. The slow bends here create perfect ambush spots for smallmouth bass and channel cats.
Best for: Smallmouth Bass, Catfish, Walleye
Best time: Summer mornings and evenings
Access: Start at Riverside Park in Carver or launch from Chaska Levee Trail.
Tip: Fish near downed trees or current seams for aggressive smallmouth.
- River map: Minnesota River Water Trail – DNR Map
3. Fort Snelling State Park (Confluence Area)
The confluence of the Minnesota and Mississippi Rivers at Fort Snelling is legendary among metro anglers. This is one of the most reliable spots for giant channel catfish and late-spring walleye.
Best for: Catfish, Walleye, Sauger
Best time: Evenings from May through August
Access: Park at Fort Snelling State Park and fish along the bank near the boat ramp.
Tip: Heavy sinkers (2–4 oz) help keep your bait down in the strong current.
- More info: Explore Minnesota – River Fishing
4. Big Stone Lake (Headwaters of the Minnesota River)
If you enjoy peaceful settings and fewer crowds, Big Stone Lake is the place to be. Located on the Minnesota–South Dakota border, it’s the starting point of the river and a great place for northern pike, walleye, and panfish.
Best for: Walleye, Pike, Crappie
Best time: Early spring (post-ice-out) and late summer
Access: Big Stone Lake State Park has a large public boat ramp and shore spots.
Tip: Try trolling crankbaits along drop-offs on calm mornings.
5. Minnesota Valley Wildlife Refuge (Bloomington to Shakopee)
For those who prefer urban convenience, the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge provides several hidden riverbank access points within minutes of Minneapolis. You’ll find bass, catfish, and freshwater drum along its quiet backwaters.
Best for: Bass, Catfish, Drum
Best time: Early morning or late afternoon
Access: Try the Old Cedar Avenue Bridge or Black Dog Lake Trail areas.
Tip: Use a light-action rod with soft plastics for bass near submerged logs.
Refuge map: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service – Minnesota Valley NWR
6. Granite Falls Dam Area
This stretch is known for its mix of fast water and rocky structure — perfect habitat for walleye, sauger, and channel catfish. The area below the Granite Falls Dam gives anglers several accessible points along both banks.
Best for: Walleye, Catfish, Smallmouth Bass
Best time: Spring and early summer when water levels stabilize
Access: Public fishing piers and boat launches are available near Memorial Park in Granite Falls.
Tip: Try jigging live minnows close to the dam wall or drifting cut bait downstream.
- Learn more: City of Granite Falls – Parks & Recreation
7. Henderson Landing (Le Sueur County)
Just north of Mankato, the Henderson Landing section of the Minnesota River has slow current and deep outside bends that hold monster flathead catfish. Local anglers love this spot for its peaceful scenery and easy access.
Best for: Flathead Catfish, Channel Catfish, Carp
Best time: Warm summer nights, especially June through August
Access: There’s a public landing just off Highway 19 in Henderson.
Tip: Use large live bullheads or sunfish as bait to tempt trophy flatheads.
- More info: Le Sueur County Public Access Map
8. Judson Bottom Road (North Mankato Area)
This hidden gem sits west of North Mankato and offers scenic shoreline and easy access to deep pools. It’s a go-to place for shore anglers who don’t have a boat.
Best for: Walleye, Catfish, Carp, Drum
Best time: Late evening into night — that’s when catfish move in
Access: Pull-off areas along Judson Bottom Road; bring waders for muddy banks.
Tip: After sunset, switch to heavier sinkers and use stink bait or chicken liver.
- Local fishing info: Visit Mankato – Outdoor Adventures
9. Belle Plaine Bend
The Belle Plaine area is a favorite among weekend anglers from the Twin Cities. The river slows down here, creating large backwaters and sandbars that hold walleye and bass.
Best for: Walleye, Smallmouth Bass, Channel Catfish
Best time: Early morning or dusk during summer
Access: Take Highway 25 west from Belle Plaine — look for public pull-offs near the river crossing.
Tip: Try topwater lures for smallmouth on calm summer evenings.
10. Le Sueur River Confluence
Where the Le Sueur River meets the Minnesota River, near the town of Le Sueur, anglers can enjoy steady action all year. The confluence holds deep holes, making it ideal for catfish, sauger, and drum.
Best for: Catfish, Walleye, Sauger
Best time: Mid-spring to late fall
Access: Public access point at the Le Sueur Boat Landing off County Road 28.
Tip: When the Le Sueur River runs high, fish the edges where clear and muddy water mix — that’s where predators feed.
Final Thoughts
These extra five spots round out a fantastic list of ten productive areas along the Minnesota River. Each has its own personality — from the fast, rocky runs near Granite Falls to the peaceful bends by Belle Plaine.
If you’re planning to fish here in 2025, remember to:
Check river levels and DNR regulations before heading out.
Use local bait shops — they often know the daily bite pattern.
Mix up your technique: try jigging for walleye and bottom rigs for catfish.
Take photos and note conditions — this helps you improve season after season.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What fish can I catch in the Minnesota River?
You’ll find walleye, channel and flathead catfish, northern pike, smallmouth bass, sauger, and freshwater drum.
2. Do I need a fishing license to fish the Minnesota River?
Yes. A valid Minnesota fishing license is required for anyone aged 16 or older.
3. When is the best time to fish the Minnesota River?
Late spring through early fall is best. Walleye bite well in spring, while catfish are most active in summer nights.
4. Can I fish from shore?
Absolutely! Many popular spots like Rapidan Dam, Henderson Landing, and Fort Snelling offer excellent shore access.
5. Are there boat launches along the river?
Yes. You’ll find public boat ramps in towns like Mankato, Granite Falls, Belle Plaine, and Big Stone Lake State Park.
