Family Fun: Find a Fish

North (on Lake Mille Lacs)
Mean Walleye, Massive Muskie, and Zilla:
Hwy 47, Isle, MN
This is a great off-the-beaten-path stop on your way to Duluth or as a destination on its own.  You won’t be disappointed.

1. Catch this trio at Johnson Portside about a mile north of Isle
2. Johnson Portside houses these three monsters as well as a Fishing Boat to check out. 
3. The Mille Lacs area has a ton to do for your whole family.  Visit Father Hennepin or Mille Lacs Kathio State Parks, play a round of mini-golf, bike on the Soo Line Trail, or just relax on the shore of one of Minnesota’s prized lakes.

There’s North and then there’s NORTH.  This is North
The Big Fish Supper Club
456 US-2 NE, Bena, MN  
This gets a pretty high rating on Roadside Attractions.  If you are in the area, check it out.

1. Catch a tasty meal on Highway 2 heading east from Bemidji (approximately 30 miles)
2. Sometime in late 1950’s The Big Fish Supper Club was opened and has gone through many transformations.  But you will want to grab a photo before you enter the belly of this big fish.
3. Open Tuesday-Sunday 5 pm-10 pm

Far North
Billy the Bluegill:
Orr, MN
I grew up going fishing with my dad and we caught sunnies.  At least that’s what I thought I was catching.  Turns out I was catching a variety of bluegills.  

1. Catch Billy on the north side of Highway 53 attached to the Welcome to Orr sign.
2. I’m not sure how big Billy is, but he is the biggest bluegill I’ve ever seen.  And the most colorful
3. While in Orr you can explore the Orr Bog Walk or Vermillion Falls. Head up to Voyageurs National Park and catch the Leaping Walleye on the way.

Farther North
Leaping Walleye
9378 US-53, Ray, MN
If you are already heading up to Voyageurs National Park, make sure you find this gem just south of the park.
1. Catch this fish across the street from Gateway General Store at the corner of Highway 53 and Salmi Road
2. A very tall fish at 14 feet high 
3. Grab a picture with you sitting on the saddle 

Super Duper Far North–Like Practically Canada North
Willie Walleye
International Drive NE, Baudette, MN
This one is by far the farthest haul for you to bring your kids, but it is absolutely worth the drive.  There is so much to do.  If you are looking for a unique in-state vacation, Baudette could be the perfect location.

1. Catch Willie at the corner of International Drive NE and Main St.  He is at home in his own park. 
2. Willie is the biggest walleye from Baudette, the Walleye Capital of the World at 40 feet 4 inches long. 
3. Baudette and Lake of the Woods are  idyllic Minnesota destinations. Go fishing, explore the lake shore, trek along Rainy River, go berry picking or morel mushroom hunting, and visit some of Minnesota’s historic landmarks.