Report from the Dock
Last weekend’s cold front and persistent winds seemed to have slowed walleye action a bit in most areas. The majority of walleyes being caught remain shallow and still being taken with minnows, although leeches and crawlers have started to produce more fish in some areas. The forecast calls for warmer, stable weather towards the end of the week, which could mean some excellent walleye fishing over Memorial Day weekend. Crappies and sunfish are also mostly shallow, already spawning in some parts of southern Minnesota, but just moving shallow to the north where water temperatures remain relatively cool. Look to the shorelines, rice beds or bulrush stands for panfish this weekend. The best bass reports are coming from shallow water as well. Again, largemouth bass have started to spawn in some areas and staging in others. Smallmouth have yet to move up and are being found just off traditional spawning areas – mid-depth rock and sand on most lakes.
Leech Lake Report
Strong winds throughout the week and a cold front last weekend has slowed the walleye bite a bit. A jig and minnow is still the best option in less than 10 feet of water during low-light periods or along wind-driven points and shorelines. The Federal Dam area has provided one of the more consistent bites early this week in 5 to 7 feet. Perch continue to be mixed with the walleyes in shallow water and most bays are now producing panfish.