By Staff
waterhead.com
October 12, 2011

Minnesota is known the world over as the "Land of 10,000 Lakes". With so many lakes and water-ways in the state, the Lakes of Minnesota can be a haven for waterheads from all over.  Although it would seem that there are thousands of lakes in Minnesota, actually there are approximately 412 lakes that a person can choose from.  Most of these lakes are located in the northern most region of Minnesota but you can many others are scattered throughout the state.  You are sure to find a great lake in ever corner of Minnesota.  Although sailing and other water activities are a big draw for waterheads, the Lakes of Minnesota are primarily a huge fishing destination.

Fishing enthusiasts from all over the world come to visit the lakes of Minnesota to fish the waters that are abundant in muskie, bass, crappie, trout, bluegill, sunfish, rough fish, northern, perch or the perennial favorite walleye.  No matter if you are coming to the Lakes in order to participate in one of the dozens of tournaments held each year for fishing aficionados or amateurs who want to try their hand at possibly winning a big prize or if you want a serene relaxing vacation, you are sure to uncover great fishing year round.  Just make sure that before you head out to the Lakes of Minnesota that you have a Minnesota boat license so that you can safely navigate those waters.  It goes without saying waterheads have an uncanny connection with the water but safety and adhering to all rules and guidelines are a must.

As mentioned, there are several species of fish that are available in the Lakes of Minnesota and this is the reason the destination brings thousands of waterheads to those lakes each year; however the fish that gets targeted the most, without a doubt is the walleye.   This freshwater fish is often called the yellow Walleye or sometimes called colored pike, even though walleye is not related to the pike species. Minnesota has great walleye fishing and they are very plentiful within the Lakes. As a matter of fact more walleye is eaten in Minnesota than anywhere else in the world.

One of the main reasons recreational fisherman as well as anglers choose walleye is because this type of fish is very easy to fillet and it tastes really good with very little seasoning.  Walleye on average do not grow to get large enough in weight and length to be considered desirable catch for most sporting fisherman but again because this fish is so palatable, it is fished commercially and recreationally and the Lakes of Minnesota are a place where there are plentiful.  Additionally, because walleye have nocturnal feeding habits, many fisherman who come to the Lakes of Minnesota, choose to fish them more at night using lures that mimic small fish such or even minnows. 

It is important to note that fishing for walleye is regulated by several natural resource agencies because walleye fishing is extremely popular with anglers.  It goes without saying that this is done in an attempt to ensure that the walleye populations are not over-fished.  Although, walleye are freshwater fish, they actually prefer more shallow areas this is due to the spawning grounds.

Fishermen and waterheads who descend upon the Lakes of Minnesota each year for great walleye fishing typically fish the lakes of Lake Mille Lacs, Leech Lake, Lake Winnibigoshish (Lake Winnie), Lake Vermilion, Upper Red Lake, Rainy Lake, and Lake of the Woods.  These are the most popular spots for anglers who primarily want to fish for walleye. walleye.  Here is some informaton about a few of those lakes.

Lake Millie Lacs
This is a vast lake with over 132,000 acres of water in which you can fish.  The lake is about 40 feet deep max but there are quite a few shallow mud areas toward the north end of Lake Mille Lacs that hold a great deal of walleye.

Leech Lake
This lake is extremey popular for people coming into Minnesota for fishing vacations.  Walleye fishing is pretty good along the weed lines but this lake also holds northern pike as well as big perch.

Lake of the Woods
This lake is perhaps one of the most popular fishing destinations in all of Minnesota and arguably the entire midwest.  Lake of the Woods is located just Minnesota's and Ontario, Canada's border.  This lake stretches on for miles, approximately 65,000 miles of shoreline to be exact.  It is such a scenic area with beautiful wildernesses and wildlife.  Many fisherman come for the walleye and northern pike fishing but on occasion you may find perch or even smallmouth bass on your line.  Nearby is Rainy River, which many fisherman find that during the spring offers exceptional walleye fishing.

Rainy Lake
Located in northern Minnesota, this lake offers waterheads the ultimate fishing experience.  There is pristine scenery and tons of walleye in its waters as well as crankbaits.  It is also a popular spot during the summer months for house-boating.

Lake Winnibigoshish (Lake Winnie)
Within the waters of Lake Winnie are walleye in abundance.  This lake is also a very popular fishing spot for those who are primarily interested in walleye fishing.  Not only can you find walleye but northern pike also share these waters and 30-35 inch pike being very common in those waters.

So, waterheads the world over, the Lakes of Minnesota could possibly be one of the best places to visit especially if you are interested in fishing.  The waters are brimming with many species of fish but again, walleye fishing is the most popular. Needless to say, fishing is not the only thing you can enjoy while on these waters; sailing, houseboating, and other water sports are enjoyed by residents and visitors alike throughout the year.  With so many acres of water you are bound to fall head over heels in love with Minnesota and will undoubtedly come back year after year to enjoy what the residents have known for years.