Explore top things to do in Brainerd Lakes including family attractions, scenic parks, dining, museums, and outdoor fun.

Things To Do

Things To Do in Minnesota

Learn Minnesota fishing license rules, costs, and requirements before your Brainerd Lakes fishing trip with Hawg Hunterz Guide Service.

Fishing License

Minnesota Fishing License

Cisco

Fresh Mille Lacs Fishing Updates

American Yellow Perch

<p><div>75+ crappies were caught. </div></p>

Crappie

Minnesota Crappie Action Stayed Strong

Absolutely pounded fish today, video coming soon! Booking guided trips if you want to get out! The bite is 🔥 🔥 🔥!!
Lindy Legendary Fishing Tackle Mister Twister Thill Tuned Up Custom Rods HD Innovations Co Amped Outdoors LLC Chef Robert's Gourmet Breading Mix Striker EGO Fishing - Designed for the Savvy Angler LEDPowersport.com Flambeau Outdoors Flop Industries

🔥 We smashed on some Brainerd Lakes Area crappies today! Way to go guys! Lindy Legendary Fishing Tackle B-MAX jig paired with a Mister Twister Sassy Stingum was the recipe! 💪🏼
Tuned Up Custom Rods HD Innovations Co LEDPowersport.com Flop Industries EGO Fishing - Designed for the Savvy Angler Flambeau Outdoors Striker Amped Outdoors LLC Chef Robert's Gourmet Breading Mix Thill

Brainerd Lakes Crappie Bite Stayed Hot

The MN Fishing Opener is right around the corner! If you want to jump in the boat with me, I have availability as soon as Friday May 15th! All gear, bait,  rods, etc. provided! Book online or call/text/message!
✔️4/6/8hr packages available!
✔️Multiple fish species to choose from, such as walleyes, northern pike, bass, crappies, trout and more!
✔️Top-notch gear, Tuned Up Custom Rods and Daiwa Reels
✔️Top-notch Technology, Garmin Livescopes and lessons
✔️Fully-insured Guide Service/Business
✔️Fish Cleaning/packaging See less

Minnesota Fishing Opener Starts Soon

Friday (May 8th) is open to hunt crappies, the bite has been 🔥 🔥 🔥!!

Hot Crappie Bite This Friday

Read expert Fishing articles, travel insights, and local stories from Hawg Hunterz Guide Service in Brainerd Lakes. Stay informed and inspired for your next adventure.

Brainerd Lakes Fishing Articles & Insights | Hawg Hunterz Guide Service

<p>Hawg Hunterz Guide Service invites you to experience some of the best freshwater fishing in Minnesota with Guide Dustin Monson leading the way. Based around the Brainerd Lakes area, Dustin offers guided fishing trips on Mille Lacs Lake, Breezy Point, Crosslake, Nisswa, Crosby, Ironton, Cuyuna, and many other waters nearby. With access to hundreds of lakes within a short drive, every trip is built around current fishing conditions and the species you want to target most.</p><p><br></p><p>Whether you are looking for trophy Walleye, Smallmouth Bass, Northern Pike, Crappie, Largemouth Bass, Yellow Perch, Sunfish, or Trout opportunities, Hawg Hunterz Guide Service provides a customized experience for anglers of all skill levels. Dustin officially started guiding in 2017 after years of creating fishing content with friends and turning a lifelong passion into a full-time career. His goal is simple: help guests enjoy a day on the water while learning techniques that improve their success.</p><p><br></p><p>Trips are available year-round and include both open water and ice fishing adventures. During the warmer months, guests can enjoy trolling, jigging, casting, or live bait fishing depending on the species and conditions. Winter trips focus on ice fishing opportunities throughout the Brainerd Lakes region and Mille Lacs Lake. Multi-species trips are also popular for anglers wanting variety throughout the day.</p><p>You will fish aboard a modern 20’8” Lund Tyee fiberglass boat powered by a 250HP supercharged engine. The boat is spacious and equipped with advanced electronics, including three live scopes that help locate fish more efficiently. Dustin combines local knowledge with technology to keep guests on active fish throughout the trip.</p><p><br></p><p>All rods, reels, tackle, and necessary fishing gear are included, along with live bait when needed. The boat accommodates up to five guests, making these trips ideal for families, groups of friends, beginners, and anglers alike. Kids are always welcome aboard, and Dustin enjoys helping younger anglers learn the basics while keeping the trip relaxed and fun.</p><p><br></p><p>Before your trip, everyone fishing will need a valid Minnesota fishing license. Guests are encouraged to bring sunglasses, a hat, snacks, beverages, and non-spray sunscreen for comfort throughout the day.</p><p>If you are searching for a dependable Brainerd Lakes fishing guide or a family-friendly Minnesota fishing trip, Hawg Hunterz Guide Service is ready to help you make the most of your time on the water today!!!!</p>

EPSG:4269

Two anglers displaying freshly caught walleye on fishing boat at Breezy Point MN

Two anglers holding walleye catches during night fishing trip in Breezy Point Minnesota

Two walleye caught while fishing at Breezy Point MN displayed on boat

Three anglers displaying a caught walleye fish during fishing trip in Breezy Point Minnesota

Walleye catch displayed on fishing boat in Breezy Point Minnesota

Walleye caught while fishing in Breezy Point Minnesota on lake with blue sky

Successful walleye fishing trip at Breezy Point MN with four caught walleye displayed on boat

Fresh caught walleye from Breezy Point Minnesota fishing trip

Successful crappie fishing trip on lake in Breezy Point MN with freshly caught fish

Walleye catch displayed on fishing boat in Breezy Point MN

Two walleye fish caught while fishing in Breezy Point Minnesota

Walleye caught while fishing in Breezy Point MN

Two lake trout caught fishing in Breezy Point MN

Angler holding large walleye fish on boat in Breezy Point MN waters

Successful fishing trip in Breezy Point MN with walleye and northern pike catch displayed on boat

Absolutely pounded fish today, video coming soon! Booking guided trips if you want to get out! The bite is 🔥 🔥 🔥!!
Lindy Legendary Fishing Tackle M

🔥 We smashed on some Brainerd Lakes Area crappies today! Way to go guys! Lindy Legendary Fishing Tackle B-MAX jig paired with a Mister Twister Sassy 

The MN Fishing Opener is right around the corner! If you want to jump in the boat with me, I have availability as soon as Friday May 15th! All gear, b

<p>Book now with Hawg Hunterz Guide Service in Brainerd Lakes and enjoy family-friendly guided fishing trips with a top-rated local expert. From trophy Walleye to year-round multi-species action, your next Minnesota fishing experience starts right here on the water.</p>

<p>Hawg Hunterz Guide Service offers family-friendly guided fishing trips across the Brainerd Lakes region, including Mille Lacs Lake, Breezy Point, Crosslake, and nearby Minnesota fisheries. Guide Dustin Monson brings years of local fishing knowledge and experience targeting Walleye, Northern Pike, Crappie, Smallmouth Bass, Yellow Perch, and other popular freshwater species throughout the year. Whether you are planning a fun outing with kids or a serious day targeting trophy fish, Hawg Hunterz Guide Service provides customized trips for anglers of all skill levels. Guests fish from a fully equipped Lund Tyee boat loaded with advanced Garmin electronics and live scope technology designed to help stay on active fish throughout the trip. Open water and ice fishing trips are available with flexible options tailored to seasonal fishing patterns and guest preferences. Book your trip today and experience why Hawg Hunterz Guide Service is one of the top choices for guided fishing trips in the Brainerd Lakes area.</p>

<p>Guide Dustin Monson is the owner and operator of Hawg Hunterz Guide Service, a trusted multi-species fishing guide service based in the Brainerd Lakes region. Dustin’s love for fishing started at a young age and eventually turned into a fishing career around helping others enjoy Minnesota’s incredible fisheries. His passion for chasing predatory freshwater fish, especially Walleye, has shaped the way he approaches every trip on the water. Guests quickly notice his friendly personality, patience with beginners, and ability to make every trip enjoyable for families, experienced anglers, and kids alike. Hawg Hunterz Guide Service focuses on creating memorable fishing experiences while helping guests learn new techniques and improve their success on the water.</p><p><br></p><p>As an experienced Brainerd Lakes fishing guide and Mille Lacs fishing guide service operator, Dustin spends countless hours studying fish behavior, seasonal patterns, and productive local waters throughout Minnesota. He guides trips across Mille Lacs Lake, Breezy Point, Crosslake, Nisswa, Crosby, and surrounding fisheries known for excellent Walleye, Crappie, Northern Pike, and Bass fishing opportunities. Safety and comfort are priorities on every trip, whether guests are fishing open water during summer or joining a heated ice fishing trip during winter. Dustin’s use of advanced Garmin LiveScope technology and modern fishing equipment helps anglers stay on active fish while maximizing time on productive water. His ability to adjust techniques based on conditions has made Hawg Hunterz Guide Service one of the top choices for family-friendly fishing charters in Brainerd Lakes.</p><p><br></p><p>What makes Dustin stand out is his dedication to improving the fishing experience through innovation, preparation, and local knowledge. He thrives on efficient pattern development, modern electronics, and teaching anglers how to understand fish movement and behavior throughout changing seasons. Guests fishing with Hawg Hunterz Guide Service often talk about the excitement of hard fighting fish, screaming drag runs, and memorable moments shared on the water with friends and family. Dustin also believes in responsible fishing practices and preserving Minnesota’s fisheries for future generations through ethical angling and respect for local waters. His personable approach and willingness to work with anglers of all skill levels continue to build repeat customers throughout the Brainerd Lakes area.</p><p><br></p><p>Trips with Hawg Hunterz Guide Service take place aboard a fully equipped 20’8” Lund Tyee fiberglass boat powered by a 250HP supercharged engine. Designed for comfort and performance, the boat accommodates up to five guests and features advanced Garmin electronics, multiple live scopes, premium custom rods and reels, spacious seating, and high-end fishing gear built for targeting trophy freshwater fish. The setup allows anglers to fish comfortably while covering productive water efficiently throughout the day. During ice fishing season, guests also enjoy heated Otter shelters, ATV transportation, and modern sonar technology that helps locate fish quickly. Whether fishing open water or ice, Hawg Hunterz Guide Service provides a professional and well-equipped experience throughout the Brainerd Lakes region.</p>

The map and red area show an approximate area where we fish. The exact meeting location will be arranged before the day of the trip, commonly located at public water accesses on the lake we'll fish.

Hawg Hunterz Guide Service in Brainerd Lakes Minnesota

Target walleye, northern pike and bass on premium Brainerd Lakes. Book your guided adventure.

Brainerd Lake Fun

Brainerd Lakes Open Water Fishing Hawg Hunterz

Expert guided 8 hour ice fishing trip targeting walleye, crappie and pike. Book your lake adventure.

Ice Fishing Day

8 Hour Brainerd Lakes Ice Fishing Hawg Hunterz

Fish Brainerd Lakes or Mille Lacs on a top rated 6 hour guided trip. Target walleye, bass, and pike.

Brainerd Open Water

6 Hour Brainerd Lake Fishing Hawg Hunterz

Join our top-rated 4 hour ice fishing trips on Brainerd Lakes targeting walleye and pike. Book today!

Ice Fun Trip

Brainerd Ice Fishing Guide Hawg Hunterz 4 Hour

Top rated 8 hour guided fishing trips on Brainerd Lakes targeting walleye, northern pike and bass. Book your premium Minnesota lake fishing adventure today.

8 Hour Lake Trip

Full Day Brainerd Lake Fishing Hawg Hunterz

<h3><em><u>Common Questions:</u></em></h3><h3>What’s included in a Hawg Hunterz Guide Service fishing trip in Brainerd Lakes?</h3><p>Hawg Hunterz Guide Service provides premium rods, reels, tackle, live bait, and access to advanced Garmin LiveScope and Vexilar electronics on every trip. Ice fishing trips also include heated Otter shelters, ATV transportation, propane heat, and proven fishing locations throughout the Brainerd Lakes area and Mille Lacs Lake.</p><h3><br></h3><h3>How much does a guided fishing trip in Brainerd Lakes cost?</h3><p>Pricing varies based on trip length, season, and whether you choose open water or ice fishing trips. Hawg Hunterz Guide Service offers half day, three quarter day, and full day guided fishing trips in the Brainerd Lakes area with options for families, beginners, and experienced anglers. Contact Guide Dustin for current rates and available dates.</p><h3><br></h3><h3>What species can I catch on a Brainerd Lakes fishing trip?</h3><p>Depending on the season and lake conditions, guests can target Walleye, Northern Pike, Crappie, Smallmouth Bass, Largemouth Bass, Yellow Perch, Sunfish, and Rainbow Trout. Hawg Hunterz Guide Service specializes in multi species fishing trips across the Brainerd Lakes region and Mille Lacs Lake.</p><h3><br></h3><h3>Do I need to bring my own fishing gear for a Mille Lacs guided fishing trip?</h3><p>No, all fishing equipment is included with your trip. Hawg Hunterz Guide Service supplies premium Tuned Up Custom Rods, Daiwa reels, tackle, bait, and electronics for both ice fishing and open water trips in Brainerd Lakes Minnesota.</p><h3><br></h3><h3>What should I bring on a Brainerd Lakes fishing charter?</h3><p>Guests should bring weather-appropriate clothing, sunglasses, snacks, beverages, sunscreen, and a valid Minnesota fishing license. For ice fishing trips, insulated boots, gloves, and hand warmers are strongly recommended for comfort throughout the day.</p><h3><br></h3><h3>What is the best time of year to fish in Brainerd Lakes Minnesota?</h3><p>Fishing opportunities are available year-round in the Brainerd Lakes area. Spring through fall is excellent for Walleye, Bass, Pike, and Crappie during open water season, while winter brings productive ice fishing trips for Walleye, Perch, and Panfish across local Minnesota lakes.</p><h3><br></h3><h3>Are family friendly fishing trips available in Brainerd Lakes?</h3><p>Yes, Hawg Hunterz Guide Service welcomes families and anglers of all experience levels. Guide Dustin enjoys helping beginners and younger anglers learn techniques while creating a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere on the water or ice.</p><h3><br></h3><h3>Where does Hawg Hunterz Guide Service fish in Minnesota?</h3><p>Trips take place throughout the Brainerd Lakes area, including Mille Lacs Lake, Breezy Point, Crosslake, Nisswa, Crosby, Ironton, and nearby Minnesota fisheries. With access to hundreds of lakes, trips can be customized based on seasonal fishing conditions and target species.</p><h3><br></h3><h3>Is ice fishing equipment included with Hawg Hunterz Guide Service?</h3><p>Yes, all ice fishing equipment is included with your trip. Guests fish from heated shelters using advanced Garmin and Vexilar electronics, premium rods and reels, live bait, tip ups, and transportation to productive fishing locations throughout Brainerd Lakes Minnesota.</p><h3><br></h3><h3>Why choose Hawg Hunterz Guide Service for guided fishing trips in Brainerd Lakes?</h3><p>Hawg Hunterz Guide Service combines local knowledge, modern fishing technology, and a personable guiding style to create productive trips for all skill levels. Guide Dustin Monson focuses on customized fishing experiences, multi species opportunities, and helping guests enjoy Minnesota fishing year-round.</p>

Air Fee

Bait Fee

Divemaster Fee

Mate's Fee

Nitrox Fee

Service Fee

State Taxes

Trimix Fee

Cancel before this guide’s cancellation window to get a full refund.

<p>Spend a full 8 hour day fishing the Brainerd Lakes Area or Mille Lacs Lake with Guide Dustin starting at 8:00 AM. This trip accommodates up to 5 guests and offers opportunities to target Walleye, Northern Pike, Smallmouth Bass, Crappie, Yellow Perch, and other seasonal freshwater species across Minnesota’s top fisheries. Guests fish aboard a fully equipped Lund Tyee boat featuring advanced Garmin electronics, live scope technology, premium rods and reels, and proven local fishing setups designed for changing conditions throughout the day. Guide Dustin customizes each trip based on your preferred species, fishing experience, and seasonal patterns while helping anglers stay on productive water from start to finish. Guests should bring weather-appropriate clothing, sunglasses, food, beverages, and a valid Minnesota fishing license before arrival. Full day trips provide the flexibility to cover multiple locations and techniques while maximizing time on the water with an experienced Brainerd fishing guide.</p>

Largemouth Bass

Northern Pike

Rainbow Trout

Walleye

Hawg Hunterz Guide Service

8.00hour

8 Hour Brainerd Open Water Fishing

<p>Fish the productive waters of the Brainerd Lakes Area on a 4 hour guided open water fishing trip with morning departures at 8:00 AM or afternoon trips starting at 3:00 PM. This trip accommodates up to 5 guests and offers opportunities to target Walleye, Northern Pike,&nbsp; Crappie, and other seasonal species depending on conditions. Guests fish aboard a fully equipped Lund Tyee boat featuring advanced Garmin electronics, live scope technology, premium rods and reels, and proven local fishing setups. Guide Dustin provides hands-on instruction and customized fishing plans for beginners, families, and experienced anglers looking to fish Minnesota’s top freshwater lakes. Guests should bring weather-appropriate clothing, sunglasses, snacks, beverages, and a valid Minnesota fishing license before arrival. These half day trips are a great option for anglers wanting quality fishing time while keeping part of the day open for other vacation activities.</p>

4.00hour

4 Hour Brainerd Open Water Fishing 

<p>Fish the Brainerd Lakes Area on a 6 hour guided open water fishing trip with departures available at 8:00 AM or 2:00 PM. This trip accommodates up to 5 guests and offers flexible opportunities to target Walleye, Northern Pike, Crappie, and other seasonal freshwater species. Guests fish aboard a fully equipped Lund Tyee boat featuring advanced Garmin electronics, live scope technology, premium rods and reels, and proven local fishing setups tailored to current conditions. Guide Dustin works closely with each group to customize the day based on experience level, preferred species, and fishing goals while providing instruction throughout the trip. Guests should bring weather-appropriate clothing, snacks, beverages, sunglasses, and a valid Minnesota fishing license before arrival. These extended trips provide more time to fish multiple locations and adjust techniques throughout changing conditions on Minnesota’s top fisheries.</p>

Lake Trout

6.00hour

6 Hour Brainerd Open Water Fishing

<p>Fish the Brainerd Lakes area on a 4 hour guided ice fishing trip with morning departures at 8:00 AM or afternoon trips starting at 1:00 PM. This trip accommodates up to 5 guests targeting popular Minnesota species like Walleye, Crappie, Yellow Perch, and Northern Pike. Your experience includes ATV transportation, heated Otter Outdoors shelters, live bait, tip ups, premium Tuned Up Custom Rods with Daiwa reels, and advanced Garmin and Vexilar electronics. Guide Dustin uses proven fishing locations and modern technology to help anglers of all experience levels stay on active fish throughout the trip. Guests should bring winter clothing, insulated boots, food, and beverages for a comfortable day on the ice. These half day trips are ideal for families, beginners, and anglers looking for a productive Minnesota ice fishing experience.</p>

Bluegill

4 Hour Brainerd Ice Fishing Guide Trip

<p>Spend a full 8 hour day ice fishing the Brainerd Lakes area with Guide Dustin starting at 8:00 AM. This trip is designed for up to 5 guests targeting popular Minnesota species including Walleye, Crappie, Yellow Perch, and Northern Pike using proven local techniques and advanced electronics. Your trip includes ATV transportation, heated Otter Outdoors shelters, live bait, tip ups, premium Tuned Up Custom Rods with Daiwa reels, and Garmin Livescope and Vexilar sonar technology. Dustin uses productive fishing locations throughout the day to help anglers stay on active fish while providing guidance for beginners, families, and experienced anglers alike. Guests should bring warm winter clothing, insulated boots, hand warmers, food, and beverages for a comfortable day on the ice. Full day trips allow more time to cover multiple locations and increase opportunities for quality fish throughout changing conditions.</p>