Knife River, MN Fishing Trip — May

Your Knife River, MN Fishing Trip

May2 peopleFamily Trip
High 60°F / Low 43°F1.3" rain · 5 rainy daysMild weather — bring layers for cool mornings on the water.

What’s Biting in May

8 species
Smallmouth BassExcellent
Smallmouth Bass
Casting · Fly Fishing
CrappieExcellent
Crappie
Jigging · Live Bait Fishing
Northern PikeExcellent
Northern Pike
Various
PerchExcellent
Perch
Jigging · Live Bait
WalleyeExcellent
Walleye
Various
Largemouth BassExcellent
Largemouth Bass
Spinning · Baitcasting
CatfishExcellent
Catfish
Bottom Fishing · Jug Fishing
MuskieExcellent
Muskie
Casting · Trolling

May Weather in Knife River

60°F
Avg High
43°F
Avg Low
1.3"
Rainfall
5
Rainy Days

Mild weather — bring layers for cool mornings on the water.

3 Guides Matched

Prepare for Your Trip

Gear recommendations and packing list for your trip. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

What to Bring

Check with your guide about gear. Here's a recommended packing list:

Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
Polarized sunglasses
Hat or visor
Weather-appropriate clothing
Non-marking shoes or deck shoes
Water and drinks (stay hydrated)
Snacks or lunch
Cooler for your catch
Motion sickness medication (if needed)
Camera or phone (waterproof case recommended)
Valid fishing license (confirm with captain)
Bug spray
Rain gear
$910
Estimated total for 2 people
$455
per person
Charter $500
Tip $100
Licenses $60
Food $100
Lodging $150

Estimates based on local charter rates and averages. Contact guides for exact pricing.

Things to Do in Knife River

Activities for your non-fishing days

Minnesota Fishing License

License Cost
Resident$25
Non-Resident$51
Requirements

Required for ages 16+. Individual and family licenses available. Trout stamp additional.

Buy License Online — Minnesota

Species Regulations

Smallmouth Bass
Season:Varies by location; generally late May/early June - February
Bag Limit:Varies by location; typically 3-5
Size Limit:Varies by location; some catch and release only areas

Check the specific regulations for the lake or river you plan to fish as limits and size restrictions vary. Some waters are catch-and-release only.

Crappie
Season:Year-round
Bag Limit:10 per day
Size Limit:No size limit

Some lakes may have special regulations with reduced bag limits. Check local regulations.

Northern Pike
Season:Year-round
Bag Limit:3 per day; possession limit of 3
Size Limit:Varies by zone; may have protected slot limits

Size limits vary by zone to protect spawning populations. Consult the Minnesota fishing regulations booklet for specific zone regulations.

Perch
Season:Year-round
Bag Limit:Varies by waterbody; check specific regulations. Many lakes have a limit of 20 per day.
Size Limit:No size limit

Check the current Minnesota Fishing Regulations for specific lake and area regulations, as bag limits can vary widely.

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