People new to Central Minnesota discover quickly that fishing is a very important part of residents' leisure time. Conversations just naturally work their way around to the topic. The reason is simple. Central Minnesota is loaded with lakes that provide ample opportunity to enjoy the sport.
Fishing is a major recreational activity for people in our area during both summer and winter.
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has built fishing piers on several area lakes. These piers are open to the public and are usually located in places where anglers actually have a good chance of catching fish. Shore opportunities are available near St. John's University, on the Mississippi River, and south of Richmond on Highway 22 or 71. You can also check a local bait shop for hot spots. Bait dealers are located in St. Cloud as well as in the neighboring communities of Rockville, Richmond, and St. Joseph.