Lake Minnetonka Fishing Guide FAQs
Find answers to common questions about booking, preparing for, and enjoying your guided fishing trip with Erickson Guide Service.
The Fishing Experience
Lake Minnetonka is the largest lake in the Twin Cities metro area, offering over 14,000 acres of water with highly diverse structure. This complex ecosystem supports a wide variety of fish, making it famous for its high-quality Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, and excellent Panfish populations. Because it offers something for everyone—from casual beginners looking for a fun day on the water to professional fishermen seeking a challenge—it has cemented its reputation as one of the most popular and productive fishing destinations in the state.
With over 25 years of experience specifically on Lake Minnetonka, Kurt Erickson offers a level of "lake sense" that only comes from decades on the water. While many Minneapolis fishing guides split their time across multiple lakes, Kurt's deep specialization on Lake Minnetonka means less time searching and more time catching fish!
Absolutely! Kurt is known for being patient and having a great sense of G-rated humor, making these trips perfect for families. Whether you are a seasoned angler or a first-timer from Minneapolis looking for a fun weekend activity, the trip is tailored to your skill level.
We primarily target Largemouth Bass and Northern Pike. However, Lake Minnetonka is a diverse fishery; it's common to hook into Smallmouth Bass, Crappie, Sunfish, and even the occasional prized Walleye or Muskie.
Booking & Rates
Our 2026 Half-Day (4-hour) rates are:
- 1-2 People: $425.00
- 3 People: $475.00
- 4 People: $525.00
We make a commitment to take you on a guided fishing trip no matter the weather. Rain and overcast skies are not reasons for a cancellation, but severe weather conditions may require us to cancel your trip. Our cancellation fee is $200 if you decide to cancel your reservation. Cancellations must be made 7 days prior to your trip.
We welcome personal checks. We also accept Visa and MasterCard, which are subject to a 3.5% processing fee.
Preparation & Gear
In Minnesota, residents and non-residents aged 16 and older must have a fishing license. You can purchase 24-hour, partial and full-season licenses online via the MN DNR website. If you prefer to buy a license in person, most major sporting goods, hardware, gas stations, and bait shops in Minnesota sell licenses. A list of local places in your area can be found on the DNR website.
- Clothing: We recommend layers, a light jacket, or a hoodie.
- Sun Protection: Sunblock and polarized sunglasses are highly recommended.
- Food: Feel free to bring snacks and beverages. We provide a cooler with ice and water.
- Rain Gear: If rain is in the forecast, please bring a jacket (we can provide gear for smaller groups upon prior request).
Yes. We provide top-quality rods, reels, and lures. We generally have the most success with artificial lures, but when the conditions call for live bait, we provide that as well. You are more than welcome to bring your favorite "lucky" rod if you prefer, but we have everything you need to catch fish already on board.
Logistics & Events
Kurt launches his fishing trips from Lord Fletcher's Old Lake Lodge in Spring Park, MN. Lord Fletcher's is conveniently situated on the shores of Coffee Cove, tucked between West Arm and Crystal Bay on Lake Minnetonka.
Get directions to Lord Fletcher's
*Note: Parking can be busy on weekends. We recommend arriving 15 minutes early to find a spot and meet Kurt at the docks.
Yes! We can handle up to 4 people in each boat. When you book your trip with Kurt, let him know how many will be in your group. Kurt partners with experienced professional fishing guides on Lake Minnetonka to accommodate groups with more than 4 people. If you're looking to book a corporate fishing outing, be sure to check out Kurt's corporate fishing trips page.
Call or Text to Book: 612-801-5058
Kurt is on the water most of the day so if you get his voicemail please leave a message!