General Information Larger than any state east of the Mississippi River, Minnesota is 79,548 square miles surrounded on three sides by Canada. Also known as "The Land of 10,000 Lakes," Minnesota plays an important role in the distribution of water in North America. Minnesota's composition, aside from its vast water resources, is largely coniferous and hardwood forests, prairie, and farmland. With its plentiful water and land resources, it is easily understood why Minnesota is a popular destination for first-class fishing and hunting. Capital City: St. Paul Largest City: Minneapolis National Parks and Forests: Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness Chippewa National Forest Superior National Forest Voyageurs National Park Sport Fishing Minnesota claims nearly two million acres of fishable water not including Lake Superior. It is home to thousands of lakes and over 15,000 miles of wilderness streams that offer fishing in some capacity. Walleye are the most sought-after game fish within the state and most lakes are managed for walleye, yet bass, panfish, muskellunge, northern pike, and lake trout are indigenous to many of the same waters. Lake Superior offers salmon and lake trout fishing most of the year. Tributaries of Lake Superior provide anglers with seasonal salmon and steelhead fishing during spawning runs. Hunting During the autumn months Minnesota offers a variety of hunting opportunities on the many Wildlife Management Areas and other public and private lands where hunting is permitted. White-tailed deer and bear are most popular among big-game enthusiasts. Pheasant and waterfowl hunting ranks as some of the best of its kind in the Midwest. Minnesota's ruffed grouse and woodcock hunting are also nationally recognized. For information on licensing, seasons, limits, rules and regulations, please visit the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources website.