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A family in a canoe and child in a kayak on the river

THE PERFECT DAY

Established in 2009, CW Outfitting is the only paddle sport specialty shop and outfitter on the banks of the Mississippi River in Central Minnesota.  We offer many outfitting services and a full paddling retail store, but above all that, we are your experts when it comes to canoes, kayaks, stand up paddle (SUP) boards, and fishing kayaks.

We're only 60 minutes from downtown Minneapolis/St. Paul, 20 minutes from downtown St. Cloud, and less than a mile from Interstate 94 in Clearwater, Minnesota, right on the banks of the Mississippi River. Visit our historical building and let us help you with your outfitting needs or "try before you buy" one of our canoes, kayaks, fishing kayaks, or stand up paddle boards. Whatever paddling adventure you’re craving, we’re here to make it happen.

We love seeing all sorts of adults and kids, of all ability levels, experience paddling.  And because "getting kids outdoors" is a big part of our core mission, we offer great rates for families, nonprofit organizations, and community groups.  Business outings and team building events have also become very popular and a big focus of ours.

As a locally owned and family operated business, we always appreciate your business!

When you have a few minutes, we'd love to chat with you about the great canoes, kayaks, fishing kayaks, SUP boards, gear we sell, and services we provide. Come out to see us and get ready for The Perfect Day...

Kayaks on the river with a rainbow over the riverWhy is our location so special? The Wild & Scenic Mississippi River  
Designated "Wild & Scenic" by the DNR, many miles along this stretch are still in their natural state due to the protection, regulations, and zoning associated with this title. Because the Mississippi River is a major migratory corridor, paddlers often see eagles, blue herons, egrets and hawks along with many other birds, mammals, fish, and crustaceans that call this area home.

Here, the Mississippi River is shallow with a rocky bottom - poor conditions for motor boats, but ideal for paddling and fishing. With a gentle current void of any rapids, dams or falls, the paddling is relaxing and the fishing is spectacular.

Many consider this stretch to be world class smallmouth bass fishing due to the limited motor traffic, river accessibility, and special fishing regulations.
We are convinced that you'll enjoy this Midwest gem whether you are new to paddling or a seasoned veteran!

Testimonials

"We've used several outfitters around the state & your service was top notch! Clean, friendly, timely and helpful. Very impressed! We will be back!" (Sue - Paynesville MN)

"We did a four person, four kayak trip from Clearwater down the river for 8 miles on July 3rd. When we arrived the CW Outfitters were ready for us. They showed us the kayaks and explained the differences. We chose our kayaks and their staff carried them down to the water along with the life jackets and paddles. They explained the map in detail. The river was shallow but we had a wonderful summer trip down the Mississippi. We called CW Outfitters from the designated spot and when we landed the staff was there to pull the kayaks out of the water and shuttled us back to our car. It could not have been easier! They were wonderful and right on it when we needed it. Will be doing this trip again. Reasonable price, great times to launch, great options to do the river."  (Maureen - Rice, MN)

"I got a wonderful deal on the kayak I have wanted for years. The staff at Clear Waters were friendly and helpful and made me feel very comfortable with my large purchase. They showed me options for other things that I may want but did not pressure me to spend more money. They gave great advice, and I will 100% be going back to them when I have any other paddling needs."  (Adam- Willmar, MN)


"We have been on the river 5 times now and each one different than the last! Heat, wind, rain, and mostly perfect days. Have French students come and it's now a tradition to "do the river"!
It can be relaxing or competitive, serene and exciting too. I've recommended this to numerous friends and all have had fabulous experiences.
Great staff, communication is excellent, and best MN experience for out of town guests!" (Mary K - Big Lake, MN)four Trip Advisor certificates of excellence

SHOP CW OUTFITTING

1) RETAIL STORE IN CLEARWATER, MN overview of the inside of our paddle sports store

The historic Clearwater creamery building is now the home of CW Outfitting. After months of renovation in 2010, we brought the historic creamery building back to tip-top shape. We have continued to improve the buildings and grounds to make this a first class paddle-sport retail shop and outfitter.

Our store is filled with quality paddling and fishing gear and equipment along with souvenir and convenience items.

Come in for any paddling needs and browse our great deals on new and used canoes, kayaks, fishing kayaks, and SUP boards. If we don't have what you need, we'll do our best to get it for you!


2) SHOP ONLINE 

If you can't stop in person, browse through our online store! It's overflowing with all the same paddling, fishing, camping, and outdoor adventure gear we have in-store, all from time tested, quality brands like Native Watercraft, NuCanoe, Eddyline, Hurricane, Wenonah, Grumman, Current Designs, Liquid Logic, Old Town, Grey Duck, Bending Branches, Coghlan, Rapala, Aqua Bound, NRS, Stohlquist & many more.


Minnesota's Premier
Mississippi River Outfitter
& Paddle Sport Shop

~We are Vete
ran Owned~
Monday: By Appointment Only
Tuesday: By Appointment Only
Wednesday: By Appointment Only
Thursday: 10 am-6 pm
Friday: 10 am-6 pm
Saturday: 10 am-4 pm
Sunday: By Appointment Only