We hope to see you at the museum for a live tour.
The sound of water lapping gently on the shore… the crank of the reel and sudden splash in the water…. the hum of the trolling motor… the flickering hues of gold, orange and red reflecting in the water from the setting sun… the call of the loon… These memories and more are stored away for many Minnesotans and are just waiting to be recalled…
The Minnesota Fishing Museum (MFM) is a place where memories come alive and stories are told of days gone by. The collection of over 10,000 artifacts related to Minnesota fishing is beautifully displayed and lovingly maintained at 304 West Broadway in Little Falls, Minnesota.
Step Back In Time & Experience the Evolution of Freshwater Fishing
Fishing has always played a vital role in the lives of Minnesotans, beginning with the Native Americans and the state’s earliest settlers. When it comes to fishing Minnesota is in a class all its own. The state offers 4 million acres of water and has 18,000 miles of waterways, rivers and streams. Known as The Land of 10,000 Lakes, Minnesota lives up to and exceeds its reputation, surpassing 10,000 lakes by 1,000 plus.There is not another state in the U.S.A where fishing has had a more significant impact on the economy, heritage, history, and past time of the state’s residents and visitors. For these reasons alone, it is appropriate and fitting that Minnesota have a fishing museum and educational center solely dedicated to preserving that heritage.
The Museum
The Minnesota Fishing Museum is not “just a collection of old fishing items,” but rather a collection of historical possessions that belonged to individuals from across Minnesota who were (and are) a part of the history of freshwater fishing in our state. The museum holds a priceless collection of fishing-related antiques and memorabilia tracking the heritage of freshwater angling in Minnesota.
Presently the Minnesota Fishing Museum displays over 10,000 fishing-related artifacts. A log cabin set recreates an old time fish camp at the lake. A large diorama depicts a typical spearing dark house on a frozen lake, complete with a Northern Pike moving in to be taken. Numerous displays showcase the artifacts found in many anglers’ tackle boxes throughout the years. Motors dating from 1902 are displayed throughout. The aquarium with live native fish is the focal point for learning and just relaxing. The Minnesota record fish display inspires anglers to catch “the big one”
Contact us for tour, admissions and membership information. On behalf of the founders and board of directors, we would like to express our sincere gratitude for your interest in the museum and educational center.