Fishing IntroductionFishing opportunities abound within Mississippi National River and Recreation Area for both boat and shoreline fishing. The Mississippi River in the northern suburbs and further north is a nationally recognized smallmouth bass fishery with both good numbers and size of fish. Walleyes flourish below Lock and Dam 1. Floodplain lakes contain trout, panfish, northern pike, and largemouth bass. Suggested Fishing LocationsEast Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park9750 Egret Blvd NW., Coon Rapids, MN 55433A great variety of fish may be caught at the Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park (east and west) including northern pike, carp, smallmouth bass, freshwater drum, and catfish among others. Check out rip-rapped shorelines, especially on the outside bends in the river for smallmouth bass and walleyes. Pools and slack water will hold catfish, panfish, and northern pike. Cenaiko LakeEast Coon Rapids Regional Park Pickerel LakeLilydale Regional Park Snelling LakeFort Snelling State Park Boat Landing at Hidden Falls(north entrance)Hidden Falls Dr, Saint Paul, MN 55116 GPS: 44.905458, -93.190370 Fish either side of the boat landing at Hidden Falls. Fishing can be very good here and is a favorite spot for many local anglers. For an added adventure, pack up your gear and hike the trail that starts near the picnic shelters upriver towards the dam. After a short hike you will break out of the forest and onto a gravel beach. Fishing here can also be good with catfish and other species available. Lake RebeccaLake Rebecca Park, Hastings, MN Boat Fishing and NavigationFor boat ramps and walk-in water access, see the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Boating and Canoeing. The Metro Area Rivers Guide by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is an excellent guide to boating the Mississippi, Minnesota, and St. Croix Rivers. Hunting IntroductionHunting opportunities within the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area are somewhat limited as much of the park lies within a heavily populated metropolitan area. LocationsMinnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge3815 American Blvd. E., Bloomington, MN 55425 Spring Lake Archery Course (Spring Lake Park Preserve)Spring Lake Regional Park has a state-of-the-art archery course permits hunters to practice archery in a realistic environment. Fee. Hunter Safety TrainingAnyone born after December 31, 1979 must have a Hunter Safety Certificate to purchase a hunting license. Minnesota Hunting Regulations and LicensesMinnesota Department of Natural Resources locations, county and city license centers carry licenses as do sporting goods stores and bait shops. Some convenience stores and hardware stores also carry licenses. Find sources to purchase licenses at the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources website. |
Last updated: March 10, 2021