Fishing Charters in Minnesota
Browse fishing charters in Minnesota that can help you catch northern pike.
Mighty Musky Fishing Guide Service
Josh Stevenson is a professional fishing guide with over 25 years experience guiding clients for musky, walleye, bass and northern pike.
Windy Fishing Guide Service - Mille Lacs Lake Fishing Guide Service
Windy Fishing Guide Service - Premier Lake Mille Lacs Fishing Guide - providing trophy fishing experiences on Mille Lacs Lake, and Central Minnesota. Targeting Bass, Musky, Northern Pike, Walleye, and more.
Todd Andrist
Fishing guide serving Gull Lake, Big Pelican Lake, North Long Lake, Cross Lake and the Whitefish Chain. Specializing in walleye, pike and lake trout.
Grand Rapids Guide Service
Minnesota Fishing Guide Lyle Unger of Grand Rapids Guide Service offers guided fishing trips on Minnesota's northcentral lakes and rivers. Experience the difference a knowledgeable, skilled and personable professional fishing guide makes when it comes to putting you on the walleye, northern pike, bass, crappie, bluegill, perch, muskie, lake trout or other fish.
Ely Fishing Guide Company LLC.
Ely Minnesota and Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness Fishing Guides. Speacializing in Ely Minnesota guided day fishing trips for Walleye, Northern Pike, Small Mouth Bass and other species
Baxstar Fishing
Catch more fish with Baxstar, Northwestern Minnesota's premeire fishing guide service specializing in Walleye, Bass, Northern Pike, and Crappie fishing. Based out of Detroit Lakes, Baxstar primarily serves Becker, Clay and Otter Tail counties, but services are available Statewide.
Mille Lacs Lake Fishing Guide
Experience unforgettable Minnesota fishing trips with premier Mille Lacs guide, Brad Hawthorne. Specializing in walleye, bass, perch, pike, and crappie. Book now!
Best Time to Catch Northern Pike
Northern Pike can be caught year-round in Minneapolis. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Northern Pike
Minneapolis offers some great opportunities to tangle with Northern Pike. Look to the larger metro lakes such as Lake Minnetonka and the northern reaches of the Mississippi River. Spring, right after ice-out, and fall, as the water cools, are the most productive times. During the spring spawn, focus on shallow, weedy bays. In the fall, pike often move to deeper water near points and drop-offs. Large spinnerbaits, spoons, and crankbaits are effective lures, but don't be afraid to use live bait like sucker minnows under a bobber. A steel leader is essential to prevent bite-offs. A great starting point is the Chain of Lakes, offering various access points and pike habitat. Be mindful of the weed growth, as it can be thick during the summer months, requiring weedless presentations.
How to Catch Northern Pike
Northern Pike Fishing Regulations in Minnesota
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
3 per day; possession limit of 3
Size Limit
Varies by zone; may have protected slot limits
License Required
Resident or Non-resident Fishing License
Size limits vary by zone to protect spawning populations. Consult the Minnesota fishing regulations booklet for specific zone regulations.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Minnesota state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Minnesota
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best spots to catch Northern Pike near Minneapolis?
Look for pike in weedy bays and along shorelines with submerged vegetation in lakes like Lake Minnetonka, White Bear Lake, and the Mississippi River. These areas provide cover and ambush points for pike.
What's the bag limit for Northern Pike in Minnesota?
The bag limit for Northern Pike is 3 per day, and you can possess up to 3 pike at any time. However, size limits vary by zone, so check the specific regulations for the waterbody you intend to fish.
What is the best time of year to fish for Northern Pike in Minneapolis?
Spring and fall are generally considered the best times to target pike. During these periods, the water temperatures are cooler, and pike are more active and aggressive.
Are there any size restrictions on Northern Pike I can keep in Minnesota?
Yes, size restrictions vary by zone. Some areas may have protected slot limits, so it's important to consult the specific regulations for the lake or river you are fishing.
More Northern Pike Fishing in Minnesota
Other Species to Fish in Minneapolis
Ready to Catch Northern Pike in Minneapolis?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.