Kayak Rental-Rum River
Private Trip
River Fishing
Selfguided kayaking adventure on scenic Rum River watersFamilyfriendly trip suitable for all experience levelsFourhour river journey through Twin Cities natural areas
Looking for a solid day on the water right in the Twin Cities? This self-guided kayak rental on the Rum River gives you the freedom to fish at your own pace while soaking up some of Minnesota's prettiest scenery. At 3.5 to 4 hours, you've got plenty of time to work the good spots, cast into promising eddies, and maybe even wet a line from those quiet backwater areas that hold fish year-round. The Rum River has that perfect mix of accessible fishing and natural beauty that keeps local anglers coming back season after season.
This isn't your typical guided trip – you're the captain here. Once you push off, the Rum River opens up into a world-class fishing playground that winds through some of the most scenic country in the Twin Cities area. The current moves at a nice, steady pace that lets you control your drift while you work likely spots. You'll paddle through stretches where overhanging branches create perfect ambush points, and deeper pools where fish like to stage up during warmer months. The river's got character – shallow riffles that oxygenate the water, undercut banks that scream "fish here," and enough variety to keep things interesting for the full trip. Pack light since you're managing both paddle and rod, but don't forget the essentials: tackle box, net, and a cooler if you're planning to keep a few for dinner. The beauty of this setup is you can spend as much time as you want at any spot that looks fishy.
Fishing from a kayak on the Rum River is all about being mobile and adaptable. A medium-action spinning rod works best – something around 6.5 to 7 feet that you can handle comfortably while seated. Keep your tackle simple but effective: jigs, soft plastics, small spinners, and definitely bring some live bait if you can manage it in the kayak. The key technique here is drift fishing – let the current do the work while you focus on presenting your bait naturally. You'll want to master the art of using your paddle as an anchor to hold position over good structure. Look for fallen trees, rock piles, and those deeper bends where the current has carved out holding spots. Early morning and late afternoon tend to produce the best action, when fish are actively feeding. The water clarity on the Rum River is typically good, so lighter line and more natural presentations often outperform flashy lures. Don't be afraid to get close to cover – that's where the fish are hiding.
The Rum River serves up a solid mixed bag that'll keep any angler happy. Northern pike are the river's top predator and a customer favorite for good reason. These toothy fighters love the weed edges and fallen timber you'll encounter throughout your float. Pike in the Rum typically run 20 to 30 inches, with the occasional fish pushing into trophy territory. Spring through early fall offers the best pike action, especially when you're working spoons or large soft plastics along the deeper banks. They hit hard and fight dirty – exactly what makes them so addictive to target.
Smallmouth bass are another top-rated species that call this river home. These bronze-backs love the rocky areas and current breaks you'll find scattered throughout the system. A 14-inch smallie on light tackle from a kayak is pure excitement – they jump, they run, and they'll test every knot you tied. Summer months are prime time for smallmouth, when they're active and aggressive. Tube baits, small crankbaits, and crawfish-pattern jigs are go-to options.
Walleye might be Minnesota's most sought-after species, and the Rum River holds a solid population that tends to surprise visiting anglers. These tasty fish concentrate around deeper holes and current transitions. They're renowned for being finicky, but when you figure out the pattern, you can have a banner day. Walleye fishing peaks during spring and fall when water temperatures are in their comfort zone. A simple jig and minnow combo is hard to beat, though soft plastics on lighter jigs work well when fish are being picky.
This Rum River kayak rental delivers exactly what Minnesota anglers are looking for – quality fishing in a beautiful setting without the crowds you'll find on bigger lakes. You get the flexibility to fish your way, the freedom to explore water that many anglers never see, and the satisfaction of a truly self-guided adventure. Whether you're a seasoned river rat or someone looking to try kayak fishing for the first time, this trip offers the perfect blend of challenge and relaxation. The fish are there, the scenery is world-class, and the price point makes it a no-brainer for your next fishing adventure. Book your rental and discover why the Rum River has earned its reputation as one of the Twin Cities' best-kept fishing secrets.
Ramsey, MN