<p>If you're looking to book a walleye fishing trip in Minnesota, there's no better place than Otter Tail Lake. I’ve lived right on the lake for years, which allows me to focus exclusively on this beautiful body of water. My guided walleye fishing trips in Minnesota are all centered on Otter Tail Lake, giving you the benefit of a local guide who knows the lake inside and out. This singular focus ensures every trip is tailored for success, especially when targeting one of Minnesota’s most popular game fish.</p><p><br></p><p>Otter Tail Lake walleye fishing offers anglers a unique experience throughout the season. I guide strictly for walleyes on this lake, starting at the official season opener and continuing through the prime bite windows. The best time for walleye fishing in MN often depends on water temperature, weather patterns, and feeding behavior—all of which I monitor closely to give you the best chance at landing quality fish. When I’m not guiding for walleye, I also fish area lakes for crappies and sunfish, especially during the early and late seasons.</p><p><br></p><p>One of the most important elements of success on the water is time—there’s no substitute for it. My strategy involves trolling to locate active fish, then switching to casting techniques once we find them. I rarely use live bait. Instead, I rely on custom lures with unique color patterns you won't find in stores. These subtle differences can make a big impact when fish are pressured or finicky. I’ve found that giving walleyes something they haven’t seen before often triggers more bites.</p><p><br></p><p>I’ve been fishing at night on Otter Tail Lake for over 47 years and guiding full-time for 15 of them. Guests can meet me at any of the three public accesses around the lake or at one of the many resort docks—whichever is most convenient. I specialize in personal, laid-back outings that are perfect for individuals, small groups, or family fishing trips in Minnesota. Every trip is tailored to your comfort level and fishing goals.</p><p><br></p><p>Before we hit the water, please remember to bring a valid Minnesota fishing license, along with weather-appropriate clothing, a hat, sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and any snacks or drinks you’d like. Whether you're chasing your first walleye or returning for another memorable outing, my goal is to make your experience on Otter Tail Lake one to remember. Book a walleye fishing trip in Minnesota with a local guide who’s dedicated, experienced, and passionate about helping you land fish.</p>

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4 big fish caught while fishing in Ottertail

Two people fishing in Ottertail, Minnesota

<p>Ready to reel in unforgettable memories on the water? Book your next adventure with Ottertail Tail Guide Service in Otter Tail Lake, Minnesota—where local expertise meets nonstop fishing action!</p>

<p>Ottertail Tail Guide Service specializes in guided walleye fishing in Minnesota, led by a local expert who knows the waters better than anyone. Captain Don Coury has spent decades fishing Otter Tail Lake and the surrounding area, giving guests a true advantage on the water. His focus is entirely on walleye, and he’s known for using unique lure setups and sonar technology to locate active fish quickly. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned angler, you’ll get personalized guidance and a high-quality experience. Book a walleye fishing trip in Minnesota and fish with someone who lives where he guides.</p><p><br></p><p>Families and small groups often choose to fish Lake Otter Tail County MN for its quiet waters, beautiful scenery, and consistent walleye action. Ottertail Tail Guide Service also offers trips on Fish Lake in Otter Tail County—a great option for those looking for a peaceful setting and steady bites. All gear is provided, and every trip is tailored to your pace and goals. Whether you prefer early morning or evening fishing, you’ll enjoy time on the water with a trusted local guide. Book your trip today and see why Ottertail Tail Guide Service is a go-to for memorable walleye fishing in Minnesota.</p>

Get answers to common questions about guided walleye fishing trips in Minnesota with Ottertail Tail Guide Service, including what’s included, what to bring, and how to plan your perfect day on the water.

<p>If you're looking to book a walleye fishing trip in Minnesota, there's no better place than Otter Tail Lake—and no better person to guide you than Captain Don Coury. Don has lived right on the lake for years, giving him daily access to its shifting patterns and subtle seasonal changes. That local advantage allows him to focus exclusively on Otter Tail Lake, one of Minnesota’s most iconic walleye fisheries. His commitment to this single lake means you’re fishing with someone who knows every contour, point, and structure—ensuring your trip is grounded in real, proven local knowledge.</p><p><br></p><p>Don’s approach to guided walleye fishing in Minnesota is all about timing, technique, and experience. From the state’s walleye opener in May through the productive fall season, he guides with an eye on the most reliable bite windows. When walleye aren’t active, he explores nearby lakes to target early and late-season crappie and sunfish. Because conditions shift quickly in northern Minnesota, Don stays flexible and adapts his plan around water temps, weather, and fish behavior—so guests have the best shot at consistent action, no matter the day.</p><p><br></p><p>With over 47 years of experience night fishing on Otter Tail Lake and 15 years of guiding full-time, Don understands that time on the water is everything. His strategy often begins with trolling to locate active schools, followed by precision casting to target them effectively. Rather than using standard bait, Don creates and fishes with custom-designed lures featuring unique colors and profiles. These one-of-a-kind presentations are built to stand out—especially when the fish have seen it all. His calm, patient style and attention to detail make every outing feel like time spent fishing with an old friend.</p><p><br></p><h3>The Boat</h3><p>You’ll fish from a reliable and well-equipped 1775 Lund Pro Guide, powered by a 75 HP Mercury tiller. The setup includes a Minn Kota Ulterra with i-Link for hands-free precision boat control and a 12” Garmin Livescope L34, offering real-time forward, down, and perspective views of the underwater world. This boat is built for serious anglers but comfortable enough for first-timers and families alike. It’s the perfect tool for navigating Otter Tail Lake’s diverse fishing structure—and gives you every advantage to find and hook more fish with confidence.</p>

Check out our fishing spots! The red zone marks prime fishing areas, while the pins show where we meet guests. Locations may vary by season and conditions. Let’s go fishing!

<h2><strong>Guided Walleye Fishing Trips on Otter Tail Lake</strong></h2><p> <em>Discover Minnesota’s Hidden Gem with Ottertail Tail Guide Service</em></p><p>For years, there’s been a quiet debate among Minnesota anglers: where’s the best lake to catch walleye? Some say Mille Lacs. Others claim Lake of the Woods. But ask a local around Otter Tail County, and they’ll tell you the truth—Otter Tail Lake consistently delivers some of the best walleye fishing in the state, without the crowds or long drives north. At Ottertail Tail Guide Service, we’re here to show you why this lake deserves a spot on your must-fish list.</p><p><br></p><h3>The Local Advantage: Fishing with a Guide Who Lives on the Lake</h3><p>There’s something special about fishing with someone who calls the lake home. Captain Don Coury doesn’t just guide on Otter Tail Lake—he <em>lives</em> on it. That means he sees the subtle changes from week to week, knows where the fish move as water temps rise or fall, and understands how wind, weather, and time of day affect the bite. This kind of real-time, boots-on-the-dock experience simply can’t be replaced with apps or maps.</p><p>Otter Tail Lake spans over 13,000 acres and offers a variety of underwater structures, sand flats, and drop-offs that walleye love. But if you don’t know the lake, it can feel like a needle in a haystack. That’s where a seasoned guide makes all the difference. Guided walleye fishing trips on Otter Tail Lake give you a front-row seat to the best spots, the best timing, and the best techniques—without any of the guesswork.</p><p><br></p><h3>Busting the “Big Lakes Only” Myth</h3><p>Many anglers believe you need to head to the biggest, most well-known lakes to catch trophy fish. That’s just not true. In fact, Otter Tail Lake has produced countless limits of eater-size walleye and the occasional trophy, especially during low-light periods and in early or late season windows. While other lakes may get more attention, Otter Tail quietly produces consistent, high-quality fishing for locals and visitors alike—and without the heavy pressure.</p><p>This lake offers something for everyone: from families looking for a relaxed evening catching fish to serious anglers chasing their personal best under the stars. At Ottertail Tail Guide Service, we’ve guided all kinds of anglers—from first-timers to diehards—and we know how to create the right kind of trip for you.</p><p><br></p><h3>What You Can Expect on a Trip</h3><p>Our walleye trips typically run during peak bite hours—often in the evening or at night when fish are actively feeding. All trips are tailored to your comfort level and fishing goals. You’ll be fishing aboard a fully equipped 1775 Lund Pro Guide boat powered by a 75HP Mercury and outfitted with a Minn Kota Ulterra and Garmin Livescope for real-time fish tracking.</p><p>We provide all the gear, tackle, and local knowledge you need. You bring your valid MN fishing license, snacks, sunglasses, and a great attitude. Whether it’s your first fish or your fiftieth, we’ll help make it one to remember.</p><p><br></p><h3>Book Your Walleye Fishing Trip Today</h3><p>If you’re ready to stop wondering and start fishing, it’s time to book your guided walleye fishing trip on Otter Tail Lake. Ottertail Tail Guide Service is built on years of experience, a deep love of the lake, and a commitment to giving every guest a successful, enjoyable day on the water. Let’s fish smarter, not harder—together.</p>

<p>Experience expert-led guided walleye fishing trips on Otter Tail Lake with Ottertail Tail Guide Service. Local knowledge, quality gear, &amp; memorable catches await—book your fishing trip today!</p>

<p>Otter Tail Lake, located in west-central Minnesota, is one of the largest and most scenic lakes in Otter Tail County. Spanning over 13,000 acres, it offers a diverse mix of clear waters, sandy bottoms, and underwater structures that make it a top destination for anglers across the region. Known especially for its strong walleye population, the lake also supports northern pike, perch, bluegill, and crappie—making it a well-rounded fishery for all skill levels and ages.</p><p><br></p><p>In addition to great fishing, Otter Tail Lake is surrounded by quiet resorts, public access points, and beautiful natural scenery. Its size allows for both peaceful, family-friendly outings and more adventurous full-day fishing trips. Whether you’re casting from the shoreline, trolling offshore humps, or chasing a sunset bite, Otter Tail Lake offers the perfect mix of accessibility and fishing opportunity in the heart of Minnesota’s lake country.</p>

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Join Ottertail Tail Guide Service for expert-led walleye fishing trips on Otter Tail Lake, Minnesota. Local guide, quality gear, and proven fishing results.

Guided Walleye Fishing Trips | Otter Tail Lake, MN

Walleye Fishing

Walleye Fishing Trips on Otter Tail Lake

<p>Common Questions</p><p><br></p><h3>What types of fishing trips do you offer?</h3><p>Ottertail Tail Guide Service offers guided walleye fishing trips in Minnesota, with a focus on Otter Tail Lake. Trip options include evening and night fishing trips, half-day outings, and custom trips for families or small groups. We also offer seasonal trips on Fish Lake and other nearby waters in Otter Tail County.</p><h3>How much does a guided walleye fishing trip cost?</h3><p>Trip rates vary based on duration and group size. Most 4-hour trips start at a competitive flat rate and include all gear and equipment. Visit our Rates page for full pricing details or contact us directly for custom group quotes and availability.</p><h3>What’s included in the fishing charter?</h3><p>All guided trips include premium rods, reels, tackle, and live or artificial bait when applicable. We also use advanced sonar and GPS equipment for locating fish efficiently. You’ll fish aboard a fully equipped, comfortable boat with a licensed and experienced guide.</p><h3>What should I bring on my fishing trip?</h3><p>Guests should bring a valid Minnesota fishing license, hat, sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, weather-appropriate clothing, and any personal snacks or drinks. If fishing in the evening or at night, a light jacket is recommended as temperatures may drop.</p><h3>What’s the best time of year for walleye fishing?</h3><p>The best time for walleye fishing in Minnesota starts with the state’s walleye opener in May and runs through October. Early summer and fall offer peak conditions, especially during early morning or nighttime hours on Otter Tail Lake.</p><h3>Do you offer family-friendly fishing trips?</h3><p>Yes! Ottertail Tail Guide Service welcomes families and anglers of all ages. We customize trips based on your group’s experience level and comfort. Calm waters and a relaxed approach make it ideal for kids or first-timers.</p><h3>What lakes do you guide on?</h3><p>While our main focus is Otter Tail Lake, we also guide on other lakes in the area, such as Fish Lake in Otter Tail County. Each location is selected based on season, conditions, and the best opportunity to catch fish.</p><h3>What’s the best lake to fish walleye in Otter Tail County, MN?</h3><p>Otter Tail Lake is widely considered the best lake to fish walleye in Otter Tail County, MN. With clear structure, varied depth, and a healthy walleye population, it offers consistent success. A guided trip ensures you're fishing productive spots at the right times.</p><h3>How do I book a walleye fishing trip in Minnesota?</h3><p>Booking is easy! You can contact Ottertail Tail Guide Service directly by phone or email to check availability and reserve your date. We recommend booking early during peak season (May–August) to secure your preferred time slot.</p><h3>Is fishing experience required for a guided trip?</h3><p>Not at all! Whether you're new to fishing or an experienced angler, our guided trips are tailored to your comfort and skill level. We provide instruction, gear, and support to help you enjoy your time on the water.</p>