Hinckley area fisheries

The Minnesota inland stream trout fishing season begins on Saturday, April 16. While east central Minnesota is not generally considered a prime destination for trout fishing, there are a couple streams that might be worth a visit.

Crooked Creek: Located 20 miles east of Hinckley, the main stem of Crooked Creek is stocked annually with 300 brown trout and 300 rainbow trout. In recent years the stocking has taken place after trout opener, but in 2022 Crooked Creek will be stocked just before the April 16 opener. Stocking locations include just above Highway 48 (some roadside parking available), and in St. Croix State Park at the Matthew Lourey State Trail crossing (hike in; maps available at park office).

Hay Creek: Also known as Clover Creek, Hay Creek a natural brook trout population that can produce fish up to 12 inches or more, although average sizes are around the 7-8 inch range. Part of the creek flows through St. Croix State Park, and the stream is best accessed from the road that runs west from the main park office. Parking is available near the stream crossing. The stream tends to get overgrown with willow and tag alder, so fishing can be difficult in places. We will be doing work later in 2022 to clear brush and improve access to this stream.

Lawrence Creek: A mostly hidden in the St. Croix River bluffs just south of Taylors Falls by the town of Franconia. The stream has a natural brook trout population, along with occasional brown trout. Although trout numbers are good, sizes tend to be small, with the average adult in the 6-7 inch range. Public access to the stream is limited to two areas. The lower 0.3 miles of the stream are part of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway and can be accessed from the river (parking available at the boat access in Franconia). On the upstream end, access is available through the Lawrence Creek Scientific and Natural Area. This land contains some rare and sensitive species and features; certain areas are posted as sanctuary and anglers must stay within the stream bed in these areas. Please check the SNA web page for more information.

Statewide trout fishing regulations apply to all of these streams. Please be considerate of privately owned lands along stream banks. For more information, follow the links for each stream, or email the [email protected].