2 Reviews

The St. Croix River near Stillwater offers excellent multi-species fishing opportunities in a scenic Minnesota setting. This designated Wild and Scenic River provides diverse habitat supporting walleye, smallmouth bass, northern pike, and various panfish species. - Prime fishing from William O'Brien State Park launch. - Productive techniques include jigging, trolling, and live bait fishing. - Recent catches include 21-inch walleye and 15-inch smallmouth bass. - Morning trips often produce best results before boat traffic increases.
Guide Ryan Bunnell of Croix Boys Guided Adventures on Thursday August offers premier guided fishing trips on the St. Croix River near Stillwater, Minnesota. This 4-hour morning charter targets walleye, smallmouth bass, and northern pike using proven jigging, trolling, and live bait techniques. Located at William O'Brien State Park, these family-friendly trips include all tackle and bait, making them perfect for anglers of all skill levels. The scenic St. Croix River provides excellent fishing opportunities just minutes from the Twin Cities, with recent catches including 21-inch walleye and feisty smallmouth bass. Book online for rates and availability on this top-rated river fishing experience.
Guide Ryan Bunnell of Croix Boys Guided Adventures on Thursday August leads 4-hour morning fishing trips on the St. Croix River starting from William O'Brien State Park. These guided trips run $400-600 for up to 2 anglers and include all fishing gear, live bait, and local expertise. Ryan provides rods, reels, tackle, and bait while you bring your fishing license and enthusiasm. Book online or call to reserve your spot on this licensed guide service operating from 9134 MN-95 in Stillwater. Morning trips launch early to take advantage of prime fishing conditions on this scenic Minnesota waterway.
Recent trips have produced impressive catches including chunky 21-inch walleye and hard-fighting 15-inch smallmouth bass. The St. Croix River's diverse fish population offers excellent opportunities for multi-species fishing, with walleye, sauger, smallmouth bass, northern pike, and panfish all available depending on season and conditions. Ryan adjusts techniques throughout the trip, using jigging near structure, trolling deeper channels, and live bait presentations to maximize your success on the water.
These 4-hour trips provide ample time to work different sections of the river while learning proven techniques from an experienced local guide. The scenic St. Croix River corridor offers beautiful backdrops for your fishing adventure, with partly cloudy conditions often providing ideal fishing weather. All skill levels welcome, from beginners learning the basics to experienced anglers seeking local knowledge and productive fishing spots.
The St. Croix River near Stillwater supports a healthy population of gamefish that respond well to varied presentations throughout the fishing season. Walleye remain the primary target species, with fish ranging from keeper-sized 15-inchers to trophy specimens over 20 inches. These fish relate to current breaks, deeper pools, and rocky structure where they ambush baitfish. Smallmouth bass provide exciting action on lighter tackle, with the river's rocky habitat and current creating ideal conditions for these bronze-backed fighters.
Northern pike lurk in weedy backwaters and slack-water areas, offering explosive strikes and powerful runs. Sauger, walleye's smaller cousin, school in similar areas and provide consistent action when walleye fishing slows. The river's panfish population includes bluegill, crappie, and white bass, adding variety to your catch and keeping rods bent throughout the trip. Summer months see increased activity levels, with early morning trips often producing the best results before boat traffic increases.
Your St. Croix River fishing adventure begins at William O'Brien State Park boat launch, easily accessible from the Twin Cities metro area. Ryan provides a fully equipped fishing boat suitable for river conditions, with comfortable seating for up to 2 anglers plus guide. All fishing equipment is included: rods, reels, tackle, live bait, and landing nets. You'll need a valid Minnesota fishing license, weather-appropriate clothing, and sun protection.
Morning trips typically launch between 6-7 AM to take advantage of prime fishing conditions before afternoon heat and boat traffic. The 4-hour duration allows time to work multiple productive areas while learning techniques specific to St. Croix River fishing. Ryan provides local knowledge about seasonal patterns, productive structures, and effective presentations that will improve your fishing success long after your guided trip ends.
Ready for a fun morning on the water? Join Captain Ryan for a 4-hour fishing trip on the beautiful St. Croix River. Whether you're an experienced angler or new to fishing, this trip is perfect for everyone. You'll have the chance to catch walleye, smallmouth bass, sauger, pike, and other local fish while enjoying the scenery around you. Captain Ryan knows all the best spots and will make sure you have a great time out there. No need to worry about gear or bait - it's all provided for you. Just bring your enthusiasm and get ready for a memorable day on the river. With room for two guests, it's an ideal outing for you and a friend or family member. Don't miss this chance to make some fantastic fishing memories on the St. Croix!