Beartrap River is a popular fishing spot in northern Minnesota known for its variety of fish species including walleye, northern pike, smallmouth bass, and panfish. Nearby activities include hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. Fishing tips include using live bait or artificial lures, and fishing during the early morning or late afternoon hours. The best time of year to visit is during the summer months when temperatures range from 60-80°F.

Featured Fish - Kelp Bass

Because it is considered to be among the best eating fish and a powerful fighter, it is highly sought by sport fishermen. An omnivorous feeder, it will take most of the local live baits as well as a variety of artificial lures. A favorite rig is a metal jig and whole squid that can be bounced along the bottom. The best fishing is summer to fall although it can be fished year round in some areas. The following are fishing methods used to catch this fish: The color of this species is brown to olive green with pale blotches on the back, becoming lighter below. They are easily distinguished from the sand basses by the fact that the third, fourth and fifth dorsal spines are about the same length, whereas the third dorsal spine of the sand basses is much longer than the fourth and fifth.