Brainerd, Minnesota Fishing Guide Service
Catch More & Bigger Fish in Brainerd, MN with a Local Fishing Guide
Walleye, Bass & Trophy Fishing Trips in the Brainerd Lakes Area
5.0 Rated • Local Brainerd Area Fishing Guide • Family-Friendly Trips
The Ultimate Brainerd Lakes Fishing Experience
As the central hub of Minnesota’s lake country, Brainerd offers a diverse fishery ranging from the expansive waters of North Long and Rice Lake to the technical river fishing of the Mississippi. Successfully navigating the Brainerd area requires a guide who understands these varied ecosystems. At The Fish Guyd Guide Service, we utilize a 24ft Skeeter Bay boat, specifically chosen for its ability to handle the large waves of the Brainerd Lakes while providing a stable, spacious platform for groups of up to 6 anglers. Whether you are a corporate group looking for a team-building trip or a family seeking a trophy Walleye or Smallmouth Bass, our data-driven approach ensures you are fishing the highest-probability spots in the Brainerd area.
What to Bring
Proper Clothing
Sunglasses
Raingear
Beverages
Food/Snacks
Sunscreen
Bug Spray
Why Choose Our Brainerd Minnesota Fishing Guide Service?
Fully Licensed Captain & Fully Insured Fishing Guide in Brainerd, Minnesota
At The Fish Guyd Guide Service, Captain Nick Retka specializes in putting anglers on more fish and bigger fish.
Every trip is customized to your goals — whether you’re a beginner, fishing with your kids, or chasing trophy fish.
We don’t just take you fishing — we put you on fish!
- ✓ Local Brainerd Minnesota Lakes expert
- ✓ Consistent success on walleye, bass, and pike
- ✓ Family-friendly trips for all skill levels
- ✓ Top-quality gear and electronics provided
- ✓ Multi-species and trophy-focused trips available
5.0 Google Rated • Trusted by anglers across the Brainerd Lakes Area
Ready to Get on the Water in Brainerd?
Want to catch fish like this on your trip?
We’ll help you plan the perfect trip — no obligation.
We guide fishing trips throughout Brainerd, Minnesota and the surrounding Brainerd Lakes area, including Gull Lake, North Long Lake, Pelican Lake, and other premier Central Minnesota fisheries. Whether you’re staying in Brainerd, Baxter, or the surrounding area, we can meet you at the best access point based on current fishing conditions to put you in the most productive areas and maximize your success on the water.
Customer Reviews
Erin Retka2025-05-10Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Had an absolute blast fishing with The Fish Guyd. Super chill, super knowledgeable, and just made the whole trip easy and fun. We hit the water early, and within no time, we were on the fish. Caught more than I expected and learned a few new tricks along the way. Nick really knows the area and clearly loves what he does. No pressure, no stress—just good fishing, good vibes, and a great time all around. Gear was solid, boat was clean and comfortable, and Nick made sure everything ran smooth. If you’re thinking about booking a trip, don’t hesitate—just do it. Jackie Retka2025-05-08Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Nick The Fish Guyd has loved to fish since he was little. He has such a passion for whoever’s in the boat to have an experience they won’t forget. Nick gets so excited to watch anyone catch fish he will get you to love fishing just like he does. If you want to have an enjoyable and fun fishing trip contact Nick The Fish Guyd today. Ken Retka2025-05-01Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I highly recommend Nick with the Fish Guyd Guide Service, he is very friendly and knowledgeable, book now and enjoy the same great fishing experience we had. kathy krumrei2025-05-01Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Nick took a friend and me fishing. We caught a trophy walleye we released, and other nice fish, what a thrill! We had a great experience! Nick was very helpful and showed us fishing tips! We were very satisfied! Noah Czech2025-05-01Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Nick’s service and communication is top notch. He moved his ice castle for us when it was 30 below to set my daughter and I up on crappies and a tip up spot for northerns. We had nonstop action and the best fishing my daughter ever experienced. It was a great first night sleeping on a lake for her. We are booth looking forward to a return trip with the Fish Guyd Guide Service. Lee Skajewski2025-05-01Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Book Now!!!! Don’t wait, get on his schedule! I have used The Fish Guyd multiple times throughout my vacations and I will only book with him! I have seen first hand how he interacts with kids and patiently teaches them the art of fishing. On the flip side I am an experienced angler and I still learn new things from him whether that is a new tactic, learning new technologies, or simply conversing and bouncing ideas back and forth. He treats you like a friend and you walk away with knowledge and a bag of bone free fish. Thank you Nick! Anthony Arnold2025-04-30Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Nick is awesome to work with from start to finish. Gives you the option of what you want to target and sets you up for success. We did an ice fishing trip and he had everything ready to rock and checked in frequently. Excited to get on a summer trip with him, highly recommend! Maddie2025-04-30Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Nick is a phenomenal guide. As someone who has only fished a few times with friends for fun this was an amazing learning experience. Nick taught me a lot about each fish and useful skills and tips on catching variety of fish from bass to walleye to muskies. He put us on fish immediately which was very exciting and something I have never experienced before. Nick is personable and has the clients best interest in mind during the whole trip. I have recommended all of my friends and family to book with him. Chris Gammon2025-04-30Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. If you want an honest review, here it is. Nick is very knowledgeable and is a great teacher. I consider myself a slow learner and I also didn't realize how much there was to catching fish and he was able to teach me, and the best part was he was patient and didn't make me feel dumb when I did things wrong. If I could give him 10/10 stars, I would. Darin Gerads2025-04-30Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Whether you’re targeting one species or there to just put numbers in the boat he will get you to what you are seeking. Nick is constantly doing research to find new methods and to just better himself in anyway he can to support his clients. I would fish with nick any day of the week! Hands down your guy to go to right here!Google rating score: 5.0 of 5, based on 16 reviews
The Brainerd, Minnesota area offers some of the most diverse and productive fishing in Central Minnesota, and our local experience across the Brainerd Lakes area allows us to stay dialed in on changing patterns throughout the season. From early season walleye movements on Gull Lake and surrounding waters to summer bass fishing on structure and fall trophy opportunities, we adjust our approach daily to match conditions and keep you on active fish. If you’re looking for a knowledgeable Brainerd fishing guide who understands these lakes and consistently puts clients on quality fish, you’re in the right place.
FAQs
Brainerd Fishing FAQ
What is the best lake to fish near Brainerd, MN?
While North Long Lake and the Gull Lake Chain are the most popular, we also specialize in “hidden gem” lakes within 15 minutes of downtown Brainerd that offer incredible action for Walleye, Bass, and Northern Pike with significantly less boat traffic.
Do you offer Mississippi River fishing trips in Brainerd?
Yes! The Mississippi River near Brainerd is a world-class Smallmouth Bass fishery. We offer specialized river trips when the bite is hot, typically focusing on the fall feed bag time.
How many people can fit in your Brainerd guide boat?
Our 24ft boat is one of the largest in the Brainerd Lakes Area, comfortably accommodating up to 6 guests. This makes us the preferred choice for larger families and groups who want to stay together in one boat rather than splitting into two smaller vessels.
What should I bring on my Brainerd fishing charter?
You only need to bring a valid Minnesota fishing license, sunglasses, and any snacks or drinks you’d like. We provide all professional-grade tackle, bait, and USCG-approved life jackets.
What fish can you catch in Brainerd MN?
A. We can target walleye, northern pike, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, panfish, and musky.
What lakes do you guide on near Brainerd MN?
A. We guide on a wide range of lakes throughout the Brainerd, Minnesota area and the surrounding Brainerd Lakes region. Some of the most popular include Gull Lake, North Long Lake, Pelican Lake, and other nearby lakes known for excellent walleye, bass, northern pike, and panfish fishing.
Do I need a fishing license?
A. Yes, all residents and non residents need a fishing license. Kids under the age of 16 do not need a license.
Are trips good for beginners?
A. Yes! Here at The Fish Guyd Guide Service we pride ourselves in being the best choice in guide services for beginners and families!
What should I bring?
A. Bring appropriate clothing for the weather for the day of your trip, bring any food and beverages you would like, sunglasses, bug spray, and sunscreen are all great options as well.












