A History of Fishing on Minnetonka

Vegetarians beware, this edition looks at the legacy of fishing on Minnetonka!

Naturally, fishing has been a part of the Lake Minnetonka’s history since it was first discovered by natives 1000+ years ago. The water was used as a way to sustain tribes and families for centuries before any European settlement came to the area.

When American settlers arrived, things remained largely the same for quite some time, aside from the addition of fishers, trappers, and hunters who would slightly alter their immediate area. It’s during this time, from about 1800-1860 that the lake’s bodies and landmarks begin to receive names - many of which we still use today.

By 1875, fishing in the area had taken on new life in the form of sport fishing. Minnetonka was quickly becoming a booming tourism hub which carried national acclaim. With the boom came hotels and, with the hotels, came advertisements for complimentary boats, fishing gear, and cheap bait for sale. At the same time, many of the hotels hosted regular fishing competitions among their guests and even posted records on the walls for all future patrons to see.

As the turn of the century rolled through, things remained largely as they had been in the decades prior. Though the golden era of Minnetonka tourism was waning, another era was taking its place - summer cottages! Many residents of the cottages would use fishing as a means to supply themselves with fresh food which was cheaper than purchasing it in town.

Approaching the modern era, Minnetonka continues to be a hub for both anglers of sport and of necessity. It’s nearly impossible to navigate the lake without seeing clusters of both along the way. Now, in the most current chapter of our shared history, the Shoreline Hotel hosts fishing competitions of their own for the enjoyment of residents and tourists alike.

Clearly, there’s no end in sight for the simple, quiet enjoyment which can be discovered on this lake while at the end of a fishing rod.