Report from the Dock
While nightcrawlers and crankbaits are still producing walleyes in many areas, there’s been a big switch to minnows since last week. Water temperatures have dipped enough, now in the mid-50- to low 60-degree range depending on where you’re at, that walleyes seem to be hitting minnows more consistently. The biggest issue last weekend was simply getting on the water due to strong winds. But when anglers get out, walleyes are being caught. There have been only a handful of reports that indicated deep, suspended crappies this week but that will likely change quickly as water temperatures continue to drop. Most panfish, bass, and pike are still weed-related and, in many areas, less than 10 feet. Duck hunting reports have been mixed, but some parts of the state did see an influx of new birds moving in. Last weekend’s wind also eliminated a lot of cover in the woods, so grouse hunting success has improved quite a bit.
Leech Lake Report
A jig and minnow has started producing more walleyes in Portage Bay, off Battle Point, and on GrandVu Flats in 9 to 13 feet. Perch action is going strong with minnows in 5 to 9 feet on the north end of Walker Bay and Agency Bay. There have been some muskies caught with bucktails on the rocks and over weeds in less than 8 feet. Hit the rice edges in Steamboat Bay for largemouth bass and the cabbage edges in Sucker Bay or Boy Bay for panfish.