Detroit Lakes, MN Fishing Trip — April

Your Detroit Lakes, MN Fishing Trip

April2 peopleFamily Trip
High 51°F / Low 32°F2.6" rain · 9 rainy daysMild weather — bring layers for cool mornings on the water.

What’s Biting in April

Rainbow TroutExcellent
Rainbow Trout
Various
Largemouth BassExcellent
Largemouth Bass
Spinning · Baitcasting
WalleyeExcellent
Walleye
Various
Smallmouth BassGood
Smallmouth Bass
Casting · Fly Fishing

April Weather in Detroit Lakes

51°F
Avg High
32°F
Avg Low
2.6"
Rainfall
9
Rainy Days

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

2 in Detroit Lakes + 7 Nearby

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
Light rain jacket
$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 Detroit Lakes

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

Rainbow Trout
Season:Year-round in some streams; varies by lake
Bag Limit:5 per day (combined with other trout species)
Size Limit:No size limit in most lakes; varies by stream

Some streams have special regulations, including catch-and-release only sections. Check specific regulations for the waterbody.

Largemouth Bass
Season:Late May to Late February
Bag Limit:6
Size Limit:Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass: In aggregate, not more than one longer than 17 inches.

Specific regulations may vary by water body; consult the Minnesota Fishing Regulations handbook.

Walleye
Season:Mid-May to Mid-February
Bag Limit:6
Size Limit:Varies by zone and water body; consult regulations

Walleye regulations vary significantly by zone and specific water body. Consult the Minnesota Fishing Regulations handbook for details.

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.

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