Report from the Dock
It seems like the weather changes about every two or three days, and that’s resulted in some inconsistent walleye bites in most areas. Anglers willing to fish early and stay late are catching the majority of fish, but midday walleye activity has been slow, especially during last weekend’s heat. Slip-bobber rigs or spinners and crawlers seem to be producing the majority of fish along weedlines or midlake structure, typically in less than 16 to 20 feet. Weedlines are also key for panfish, bass, and pike now that most have moved out of shallow water. There are still a few exceptions in the far northern reaches of the state where bluegills are hanging in the reeds or along shorelines, but most are weed-related. Generally, crappies have bitten best during the evening hours, while sunfish and bass are hitting throughout the day. There haven’t been much for muskie reports, but the fish being raised seem to be relating to weeds as well.
Leech Lake Fishing Report
A slip bobber rig or spinner rig with crawlers and leeches are turning walleyes on the 7- to 12-foot rocks north of Pelican Island. You’ll also find walleyes in slightly deeper water off Diamond Point, Hogger’s Reef, and Roger’s Point. A spinner and crawler continue to produce walleyes along the 10- to 12-foot weed edges in Sucker Bay or the main-lake rocks in 16 to 18 feet. There have been muskies caught by anglers trolling over deep water and picking up suspended fish. Look for bass and panfish relating to the cabbage beds in most bays.