Leech Lake Fishing Report for February 21st, 2024
February 22, 2024
Report from the Dock
It’s the last weekend of the season to fish for walleyes on the state’s inland lakes, and it sounds like it’s been tough to consistently put fish on the ice. The walleyes that are biting seem to be most active late in the day and overnight. They’re mostly being taken on deadsticks with minnows. Panfish reports have been a bit more consistent throughout the state, and there have been more anglers fishing for them than anything else. Some of the best bluegill bites are still taking place in shallow to mid-depth weeds, and in a few areas, crappies are being found in the weeds as well. Those deep basin areas on many lakes will continue to produce crappies as well, especially during low-light periods. Ice conditions are about the same as last week with some limited truck use in the far north, ATVs or walking out in the central part of the state, and little to no ice-fishing options the farther south you go due to poor ice and deteriorated shorelines.
Leech Lake Report
Walleye activity remains limited with better action late in the day or overnight along the 12- to 18-foot breaks and reefs. During the day, a few walleyes are coming off the deep side of the reefs in 22 to 26 feet. The 18- to 20-foot breaks in Walker Bay are also producing a few walleyes during low-light periods. The best report for bigger perch is coming off Pine Point in 8 to 12 feet. The ice took a beating with last Saturday’s strong winds. Several cracks and ice heaves developed, limiting access. More of that is expected this week with the warm weather, so continue to work through resorts, some of which have shut their roads down for the season.