Fishing in Lake City

Lake City, nestled on the shores of Lake Pepin, stands as a testament to the outstanding angling experiences available in Minnesota. With 90 different species of fish populating the waters, Lake Pepin has earned its reputation as a top sport fishing destination within the state. Anglers from all over travel to this scenic area, known for its abundant walleye, sauger, pike, perch, and white bass populations. 

There’s plenty of opportunity to drop a line in the water for experienced and beginner anglers, whether they have their own watercraft or not. Shore fishing is popular in Lake City, and there are numerous public boat launches right in town. There is also a plethora of talented and knowledgeable local guides to remove the guesswork from your Lake Pepin adventure, and boat rentals are readily available.

Fishing is a year-round pastime in the area, with world-class ice angling and beautiful trout streams just minutes from town. Anglers can also challenge themselves (or just have fun) at a host of contests in both summer and winter run by area sportsman’s clubs, which always include kid competitions as well.

Sometimes Secrets Get Out

Locals are quick to let visitors in on their “little secret”. Anglers don’t have to wait until May’s opener to get their Walleye fix. Walleye hunters can legally fish all year long on the Mississippi River, which includes Lake Pepin.

Although it’s one of the Minnesota DNR-managed 10 large lakes, Lake Pepin doesn’t generate splashy headlines or get the attention given such hallowed fisheries as Lake Mille Lacs, Upper Red Lake, Rainy Lake, or Lake of the Woods. 

However, the lake, part of the Mississippi River, is one of the most productive walleye and sauger fisheries in the Upper Midwest, say DNR Fisheries officials, guides, and anglers. It’s a forage-packed system that produces on average bigger walleyes and sauger than do Minnesota’s inland lakes. It is no wonder that Lake City was chosen to host the Cabella’s WMC World Walleye Championship in 2021 to end its tournament season.

“I do think Lake Pepin falls under the radar as a destination fishery a little bit, especially on the traditional walleye opener,” said Nick Schlesser, Minnesota DNR large specialist for Lake Pepin in Lake City. “I think that Pepin, for all its bluffland beauty, is perceived as lacking the northwoods adventure status a six-hour drive to Red or Rainy or Lake of the Woods might have. That being said, it’s one of the only locations you can fish year-round for walleyes and year-round on open water at that. Some walleye anglers sneak down here before opener … but it’s really never been considered a traditional destination.”

Lake City, in contrast to the Northern Lakes region, is only an hour drive down the iconic Highway 61 from the Twin Cities area and a quick 30 minutes from Rochester.

Pepin History

Lake Pepin is the largest lake on the Mississippi River and the ninth-largest lake in Minnesota. The lake is 21 miles long, 1.7 miles wide, and covers nearly 26,000 acres. It has a maximum depth of 60 feet and an average depth of 21 feet. The Lake was formed during the last glacial period and originally extended as far north as St. Paul.

Today, Lake Pepin is part of Pool 4, which extends from Lock and Dam 3 near Red Wing downstream to Alma, Wis. The entire pool is about 40,000 acres and boasts 90 fish species, according to the Minnesota DNR. Such species diversity is unheard of in Minnesota’s inland lakes, fisheries officials say.

Lake City History

Nestled along the serene shores of Lake Pepin, Lake City, Minnesota, boasts a rich history steeped in natural beauty and cultural significance. Founded in 1855, Lake City originally served as a bustling river port along the Mississippi, attracting settlers and traders with its strategic location.

During the late 19th century, the town flourished as a center for lumber milling and steamboat traffic. Its proximity to the river facilitated commerce and transportation, fueling economic growth. However, the decline of the lumber industry in the early 20th century prompted a shift towards tourism, with Lake City becoming a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking recreational activities like boating, fishing, and birdwatching.

It was during this time that, in the summer of 1922, Lake City resident Ralph Samuelson, is credited with inventing water skiing, which he first performed on Lake Pepin. To commemorate this event, Lake City has adopted the nickname “The Birthplace of Water Skiing” and holds an annual town festival, called Water Ski Days.

Today, Lake City remains a vibrant community that honors its past while embracing modernity. Visitors can explore historic sites such as the Lake City Historical Society Museum and enjoy the town’s picturesque scenery. With its blend of heritage and natural splendor, Lake City continues to captivate all who visit its shores.

2024 Governor’s Fishing Opener

Lake City hosted the 76th Minnesota Governor’s Fishing Opener on May 10-11, 2024. Minnesota coordinates each year with the Governor’s Office, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, and the host committee to put on the event celebrating Minnesota’s rich tourism and fishing opportunities. This event underscores Lake City’s standing as one of the best places in the Midwest for fishing enthusiasts.

“I am incredibly excited to bring the longtime tradition of the Governor’s Fishing Opener to Lake City,” said Governor Tim Walz. “This region is known for its phenomenal fishing and outdoor recreation opportunities. I look forward to celebrating the unique tourism and outdoor opportunities that Lake City has to offer.”

The Governor’s Fishing Opener has been a tradition in Minnesota since 1948. The event was designed to promote the development of Minnesota’s recreation industry, and in recent years has served as a kick-off celebration for the summer tourism season.

“I am very excited that we will be celebrating the 2024 Minnesota Governor’s Fishing Opener in Lake City,” said Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Commissioner Sarah Strommen. “Lake Pepin and the Mississippi River offer a tremendous diversity of quality fishing opportunities, including being a popular destination for anglers seeking our state fish, the walleye. I look forward to experiencing these angling opportunities as well as all the other outdoor experiences the Lake City area offers.”

Learn more about Lake City and the Lake Pepin region at:  https://www.visitlakecity.org/