Crayfishing in Minnesota

[Craft Brewer]

Hey;

Just reaching out to others who have or may have a greater knowledge of where to locate a good source for trapping crayfish in the Twin Cities Metro Area.  I have been working the rivers and have found some good locations, but the population of people in those areas have created challenges.  Mainly, not leaving things alone that don't belong to you.  I had found a good resource for the invasive Rusty Crayfish and was doing well trapping those, but as the weather got nicer and more people were looking for places to fish along shore lines, my traps were being disturbed, and worse yet, some stolen or the contents robbed.  I thought I was doing good getting the Rusty out of the water since it is an invasive species and quite delicious, but the travel distance and human disturbance is dictating that I look for other waters.  Any help in locating new sources would be appreciated.  BTW, I have no watercraft so I am also forced to shore access only.  Thanks for any help.

Edited August 14, 2020 by Herman Hauglid

[Burnsville crayfisher]

I'm looking for info as well. I found a few in empire park and rambling river park the last few days but the vermillion is too muddy and doesn't hold many. Herman, where were you catching them?

[PeachyHans]

I'm not sure of any areas around the metro that won't have the same problems, unfortunately. I've heard of many people experiencing the same issues. Strangers just can't leave things alone that don't belong to them! 

 

I'll keep an eye out for new spots while I'm out. I'll let you know if I see any, in exchange for a crayfish meal. 

Edited September 5, 2020 by PeachyHans

[JBMasterAngler]

St. Croix River from mouth of Sunrise River, up to mouth of Snake River. The crayfish outnumber the rocks! And there are some big ones too!