The city of Rochester, MN is located a little over 85 miles south of Minneapolis, not far from the banks of the Mississippi River and several lakes, ponds, and bodies of water featuring some of the best fishing spots in the state. If you are ready for an adventure, get your gear ready, fill up your tank, hit the road to one of these beautiful destinations, and come back home with a great catch.
3 Great Fishing Spots Near Rochester, MN
1. Merrick State Park, WI
Located right across the state line in Wisconsin, the Merrick State Park is a popular fishing destination for anglers from the area. Established in 1932, the place is managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and is known for its three different campgrounds where visitors can spend the night along the banks of the Mississippi River. Other facilities at the park include two boat ramps, different picnic areas, a playground, and several hiking trails.
Getting to the Merrick State Park from downtown Rochester takes a little over an hour by car, driving about 60 miles along route I-90 E. Both boat and pier fishing are allowed at the park, which is open year-round between 6 am and 11 pm. Visitors are required to purchase a vehicle admission sticker to access the area. Once you make your way to the river, some of the species you will find include smallmouth and largemouth bass, crappie, and bluegill.
2. Myre – Big Island State Park, MN
Spanning an area of a little under 1,600 acres, the Myre – Big Island State Park was founded in 1947 and is a well-known fishing destination among anglers from the nearby towns of Albert Lea and other urban areas in southern Minnesota. The key feature of this state park is the island located right in the center of the Albert Lea Lake. Connected to the mainland by a causeway, Big Island offers some of the best fishing opportunities in the park.
Some of the species of fish that live in the waters of the Albert Lea Lake include panfish, blackhead bullhead, northern pike, and carp. Apart from fishing, the park offers several outdoor activities, including boating, canoeing, kayaking, camping, and hiking. Swimming is not recommended here, as the waters are shallow and often have large concentrations of lake weed. Getting here from downtown Rochester takes less than an hour by car, driving 60 miles west along I-90 W.
3. Silver Lake Park, MN
Located right in the city center of Rochester, the Silver Lake State Park is the closest and most popular fishing spot for locals. The place features boat ramps and designated areas where anglers can try their luck with species, including northern pike, catfish, walleye, bluegill, and crappie. Other popular activities at the park include picnicking, swimming, hiking, and skating.
Before you check out these fishing destinations, stop by Rochester Ford and check out the inventory of new and used vehicles we have available for you. We have the best prices in the market, as well as flexible financing plans for you to take home a car that suits your needs, style, and budget.
