The Best Bass Fishing Lakes in Minnesota
While bass are not the most popular freshwater gamefish in Minnesota, the state still ranks as one of the top states when it comes to largemouth and smallmouth bass fishing opportunities. While many bodies of water in Minnesota produce their share of big bass every now and then, the ones listed below are known for consistently kicking out numbers of sizeable bass, which is why they're listed as the best bass lakes in Minnesota.
- Mille Lacs Lake in central Minnesota is best known for its legendary trophy smallmouth in the 6-7 pound class, but don't overlook the big largemouth lurking beneath the waters. Big largemouth bass are becoming more common, but anglers flock to this lake because the opportunity to catch a monster smallmouth bass is very real at Mille Lacs.
- Leech Lake is a large lake offering healthy populations of big largemouth. Quality size bass are abundant, with fish in the 3-5 pound range considered common. The shallow, weedy areas offer exceptional cover and habitat, which is why it continues to produce year after year. The amazing fishing opportunities throughout the lake make it a top pick for bass anglers
- Lake Vermilio has routinely produced giant largemouth and smallmouth bass, becoming a favorite destination for avid bass enthusiasts. Docks and weedy cover surround the shoreline, plus countless rocky offshore reefs and shoals offer structure that harbor giant bass eager to bite. It's highly regarded as one of the best bass fishing lakes in Minnesota.
- Prior Lake boasts an unbelievable largemouth population. 100+ days are possible, with the very real opportunity to catch a trophy bass. Several bass tournaments are held on this lake due to its consistent numbers and sizes of bass.
- Lake Washington has an abundance of hefty largemouth bass, and it keeps getting better. It offers plenty of shoreline fishing opportunities and weedbeds. The sheer number of bass in the 3-4 pound range, with many over 5, make this a popular destination for tournament bass anglers.
Minnesota Fishing Licensing Information
Licenses By Phone: 1-888-665-4236