Quick Facts

• Location: Rotary Riverside Park, E River Rd, Brainerd, Minnesota
• Pier Type: River fishing pier
• Water Type: Mississippi River
• Access: Public park access; follow current local rules
• Fishing License: Minnesota fishing license required unless exempt
• Best For: Walleye, smallmouth bass, northern pike and catfish
• Best Time to Fish: Spring through fall; morning, evening and periods of moderate current
• Common Species: Walleye, smallmouth bass, northern pike, channel catfish and other river species
• Tackle Style: Medium freshwater / river tackle
• Night Fishing: Check current Rotary Riverside Park hours
• Amenities: Park setting and shoreline recreation nearby

Overview

The Mississippi River Fishing Pier at Rotary Riverside Park provides shore anglers with access to the Mississippi River in Brainerd. Unlike a typical lake pier, this location gives anglers the opportunity to fish moving water where current, depth changes, and river structure can concentrate fish.

Walleye and smallmouth bass are attractive targets in the river system, while northern pike, catfish, and other species add variety. Conditions can change considerably with rainfall and river levels.

Fishing Tips

Jigs paired with minnows or soft plastics are versatile options for walleye and smallmouth bass. Work current seams, deeper edges, and slower water adjacent to faster current.

Use enough weight to maintain bottom contact without making the presentation unnecessarily heavy. Exercise extra caution whenever the Mississippi River is running high or fast.

Bottom Line

A strong Brainerd shore-fishing option for anglers who want to target walleye, bass, pike, and other species in the Mississippi River.