Leech Lake Fishing Report for March 26th, 2026
March 26, 2026
Report from the Dock – Minnesota Fishing Conditions
The ice is still hanging on across the northern half of Minnesota, and from the Brainerd area and points north, anglers should still be able to fish this weekend without much hesitation. In most areas, travel will require walking or using ATVs, although farther north there are still locations with minimal signs of spring thaw where larger vehicles may remain an option.
In parts of southern and western Minnesota, open water fishing opportunities are beginning to develop. Angler success has been somewhat limited for crappies, but opportunities to get out are increasing. Until water temperatures warm and panfish move shallow, anglers should focus just outside shallow areas in slightly deeper water where fish are likely staging.
River fishing activity is also picking up, with solid sauger and walleye reports coming from pools along the southern stretches of the Mississippi River. There is still good pre-spawn fishing available, as water temperatures remain cool across much of the region.
Leech Lake Fishing Report – Walker, MN
On Leech Lake near Walker, conditions at many lake accesses and shorelines have changed over the past week. In heavily used areas, shoreline ice has become unstable, so anglers should use caution when heading out.
There has been some panfish action in bays such as Boy Bay and Steamboat Bay, with fish being caught in 6 to 9 feet of water. Anglers targeting perch are finding larger schools in shallow water, typically in 5 to 7 feet.
Overall, fishing pressure on Leech Lake has been very light, with fewer anglers on the lake compared to previous weeks.
For bait, gear, and local fishing insight near Leech Lake: