Leech Lake Fishing Report for February 18th, 2026
February 18, 2026
Report from the Dock – Minnesota Ice Fishing Conditions
This is the last weekend to fish for walleyes and pike on Minnesota’s inland lakes. Based on reports from the past week, catching numbers of them could be difficult; most fish are being caught at night, and there just haven’t been many consistent reports for walleyes.
Panfish have been biting better, with bluegills biting during the day and crappies most active at night. As it has been for the past month, most crappies are being found suspended over deep basin areas, and bluegills are weed-related. The lack of snow has allowed green weeds to remain prevalent on many Minnesota lakes, so if you find green vegetation this time of year, there will be panfish using it.
There were more eelpout reports this week than last, and they remain most active at night. Last week’s warm weather across Minnesota improved fishing conditions but caused some lake accesses and shorelines to deteriorate due to heavy use and sun exposure. Anglers should exercise caution when accessing lakes.
Leech Lake Ice Fishing Report – Walker, MN
On Leech Lake near Walker, MN, angler success has remained similar to last week. Perch action has picked up throughout Trader’s Bay in 16 to 20 feet – look for soft-bottomed areas of the bay to hold bigger perch. There have been a few walleyes caught during low-light periods on top of the breaks in 12 to 14 feet. Eelpout are showing up in this area as well, while tullibees and whitefish action remains solid over deep water on the Trench.