Brainerd Fishing Report: Minnesota Stream Trout Fishing Now Open

Last weekend signaled the Minnesota Stream Trout Opener, April 16, 2022. There are several designated trout streams within and around the Brainerd Lakes Area; and anglers have the opportunity to target Brook Trout and Brown Trout in the local creeks which hold them. Trout are fun to catch on light gear, offer a challenge to some anglers and provide great table fare. A valid MN fishing license and trout stamp are required for anglers over the age of 16 targeting trout.
MN DNR Fisheries identify easements on specific accesses/stream locations, so many several miles of scenic shore fishing or wading is available. Popular streams include:
  • Stoney Brook near Upper Gull Lake and Lakeshore, MN
  • Whitley Creek east of Brainerd, MN
  • Spring Brook on the north side of the Whitefish Chain
  • Borden Creek off Wilderness Point Road west of Borden Lake.

The two most popular and productive ways to target Brook Trout (aka “Brookies”) and Brown Trout are by fly fishing or spinning combo gear. I enjoy casting a small Mepps Spinner (size 0 dressed hook or plain) or a small single hook (size 6, tipped with a worm or wax worms under a bobber) in slack water areas near current. Also, check shaded areas, wooded over hangs, or wood in the stream, eddys (a current area with back current appearing to swirl), and small pools behind shallower rocks. These are fun shore fishing opportunities to catch beautiful species of fish, enjoy nature and definitely worth a visit to the Brainerd Lakes Area!

Stay warm, have fun, and good luck!

Brainerd Fishing Report provided by Dustin Monson – Hawg Hunterz Guide Service