MN Regional Fishin Reports

[Lee Borgersen]

Minn Regional  Fishing Reports

  ....
  Feb. 25, 2018

LAKE MILLE LACS
East – Look for walleyes over 25 to 32 feet during the day or in 12 to 14 feet during low-light periods. Perch action has been best off the mud flats and deep basin areas in 28 feet or more – tullibees also are being caught in these locations. Traveling off the plowed roads has become a bit more difficult with the additional snow this week, so call ahead for travel conditions heading into this weekend.
Johnson’s Portside (320) 676-3811
West – The rock points are producing walleyes at night in 10 to 15 feet, while midday hours are best spent off the mud flats in 25 to 30 feet. The deep mud or basin areas between mud flats have been best for tullibees and jumbo perch in 28 to 34 feet. The roads have been plowed open after this week’s snow and you should be able to get around off the roads with four-wheel drive.
Terry’s Boat Harbor (320) 692-4430

LAKE OF THE WOODS
Anglers are working fish hard and putting fish in the pail, but electronics are playing a huge role with some walleyes suspended as far as 10 feet below the ice. Anglers in 31 feet are catching walleyes with more saugers on the even deeper mud. The reefs to the west also productive with a few perch being pulled in as well. Rattle and flutter action spoons are doing well in gold, pink, and other glow colors. Northern pike are already active in shallow water. The Rainy River is kicking out some bigger walleyes in the morning/evening hours with an occasional sturgeon. At the Northwest Angle, walleyes and saugers are hitting in 20 to 24 feet early and late or 26 to 30 feet during day. In Ontario waters, crappies remain in deeper holes around 28 to 32 feet.
Lake of the Woods Tourism Bureau (800) 382-FISH

LAKE MINNETONKA AREA
Sunfish and crappies continue to provide the best action in 15 to 18 feet on Lake Minnetonka – look to Carson’s Bay, Phelp’s Bay, and the North Arm. There’s an evening crappie bite on Lake Independence over 30 feet or more, while walleye and northern pike action has been slow.
Wayzata Bait (952) 473-2227

LAKE VERMILION
About 16 inches of snow fell since last week so getting around the lake has become more difficult. Snowmobiles and portable shelters are now needed off the plowed roads at this point. The north side of Pine Island started giving up crappies in 22 feet, but walleye reports have slowed. Fish House Reef in Big Bay is giving up a few walleyes in 30 feet or more early and late each day. Northern pike continue to be taken in shallow water throughout Stuntz Bay.
Pike Bay Lodge (218) 753-2430


LAKE WINNIBIGOSHISH
With 12 inches of new snow on the lake, off-road travel is pretty much done, so check with resorts for access availability. Auger extensions also have come into play with the thick ice depths. It’s been a spotty stretch for perch this week with the best reports coming off the main lake bars in 20 to 25 feet, but consistently catching fish has been difficult.
Lake Winnie Resort Association

LEECH LAKE
You now have to stay on the plowed roads or use a snowmobile to get around after 12 to 17 inches of snow hit the area this week. Look for perch in 15 to 20 feet in Walker Bay or on Variety Reef and Olson Reef out from Trapper’s Landing. These areas also will produce a few walleyes during the evening hours in 15 to 25 feet. Tullibees continue to be caught in the deep hole off Stoney Point, and eelpout action is picking up over the deep water in Walker Bay.
Reed’s Sporting Goods (218) 547-1505
Shriver’s Bait Company (218) 547-2250

RAINY LAKE
With an additional 8 to 10 inches of snow this week, the snowmobile trails on and off the lake are in fine shape. The structure areas throughout Sand Bay continue to be the best options for walleyes in 30 to 35 feet. The Rainy Lake City area, Black Bay, and Cranberry Bay have been some of the more noteworthy walleye spots again this week in 20 to 25 feet.
International Falls CVB (800) 325-5766

RED LAKE
The walleye bite has been best on the 13- to 14-foot mud flats and 8- to 12-foot rock and gravel bars along most shorelines. Dead sticks are out-performing spoons most days, with low-light periods being best. There’s been a few bonus crappies, keeping-size perch, and various sizes of pike in the mix.
Mort’s Dock (218) 647-8128

Twin Cities Metro
NORTHEAST METRO
The St. Croix River is producing crappies and a few walleyes in 30 to 35 feet. Look to Lake Jane for sunfish and northern pike in 10 to 15 feet, while White Bear Lake, Beaver Lake, and Lake Owasso continue to produce northern pike in 12 to 18 feet. You’ll find suspended crappies over 25 feet or more on Big Carnelian Lake.
Blue Ribbon Bait & Tackle (651) 777-2421

WEST METRO
Hit Lake Susan for sunfish in 12 feet and Whaletail Lake at night for crappies in 12 to 18 feet. Anglers fishing straight out from the access on Rietz Lake are catching panfish in 12 to 14 feet, while northern pike can be had on Lake Zumbra in 10 to 14 feet.
Cabin Fever Sports (952) 443-2022

LAKE WACONIA
Crappies continue to be caught in 12 to 15 feet on Pillsbury Reef and Center Reef. Hit Waconia Bay for sunfish and northern pike during the day in 12 to 15 feet or crappies each evening in 12 to 15 feet. The weedlines off Center Reef and Pillsbury Reef are giving up northern pike. An occasional walleye can still be had at night in 16 to 18 feet on North Reef – get away from the crowds.
Mases In Towne Marina (952) 442-2096


Statewide
ALEXANDRIA AREA
Lake Darling is putting out crappies during the evening hours in 9 to 12 feet, as are Lake Geneva and Lake Le Homme Dieu over 20 feet. The bays on Lake Ida are giving up a mixed bag of panfish, while most small lakes are starting to give up more sunfish in 10 to 14 feet. A few walleyes are being caught during the evening hours on Reno Lake in 20 feet and on Ida or Lake Milton in 25 to 30 feet.
Christopherson’s Bait and Tackle (320) 763-3255

ANNANDALE AREA
Look for sunfish in 12 to 15 feet and crappies in slightly deeper water at Lake John, Clearwater Lake, Little Maple Lake, Indian Lake, and Granite Lake. Walleye action has really slowed, but northern pike remain active on the mid-depth weedlines of Sugar Lake, Cedar Lake, John, Clearwater, and Pleasant Lake.
Little Jim’s Bait (320) 274-5297

BATTLE LAKE AREA
Some walleyes continue to be caught with shiners or fatheads on West Battle Lake in 35 to 40 feet and Otter Tail Lake in 18 to 22 feet. Sunfish are hitting on Fish Lake, East Lost Lake, and Elbow Lake in 8 to 12 feet, while crappies are being found suspended over 18 to 20 feet at Rush Lake and West Battle. Look to Clitherall Lake, Otter Tail, and West Battle for pike in 18 to 24 feet.
Ben’s Bait Shop (218) 864-5596

BEMIDJI AREA
This area received 12 to 15 inches of snow Sunday and another 6 to 8 inches Tuesday, so travel on most lakes has become nearly impossible without a snowmobile. Some main ice roads on Lake Bemidji were plowed after the Sunday storm, but getting off those is not recommended. Before all the snow, the walleye and perch bites had picked up a bit in 18 to 32 feet on Bemidji. Jigging spoons and minnow heads have been the best combination.
Dick Beardsley Guide Service (218) 556-7172

BLACKDUCK AREA
Look for perch on the 20- to 22-foot mud and walleyes in 10 to 14 feet on Blackduck Lake. Island Lake is giving up perch and walleyes in 20 to 24 feet. Pimushe Lake and Gull Lake continue to produce bluegills and a few crappies in 20 feet. This area received more than 15 inches of snow on Sunday and Monday so traveling on area lakes has become more difficult.
Timberline Sports and Tackle (218) 835-4636

BRAINERD/NISSWA AREA
Crappies are being found suspended over 23 feet on Hubert Lake, Gull Lake, Nisswa Lake, and North Long Lake. Walleyes are hitting shiner minnows in 15 to 32 feet at Gull, North Long, and Pelican Lake. Look for northern pike in 7 to 15 feet on the south end of Gull and the north end of Gull is producing eelpout in 30 to 40 feet. Sunfish are hitting in 8 to 12 feet in the Highway 371 Bay on North Long, Nisswa, and Cullen Lake.
S & W Bait & Guide Service/Nisswa Guide League (218) 829-7010

CASS LAKE AREA
Perch action has picked up on the sand/weed areas, on top of the bars, in 6 to 8 feet on Cass Lake and Pike Bay Lake. Some walleyes continue to be caught in 20 to 30 feet on Cass, primarily on Deadman’s Bar and North Cedar Bar. Look to Kitchi Lake, Wolf Lake, Lake Andrusia, Grace Lake, and Allen’s Bay on Cass for suspended crappies over 30 feet. This area received an additional 15 inches of snow this week, so snowmobiles are now the best option for travel.
Sunset Cove Resort (800) 279-4831

CHISAGO AREA
The A-Frame area on Chisago Lake is producing panfish and northern pike in 8 to 14 feet. Hit the channel area on Little Green Lake for crappies and sunfish or the Girl Scout Camp area on Green Lake for pike and sunfish. You’ll find suspended crappies over 20 feet on North Lindstrom Lake and panfish near the islands on North Center Lake in 10 to 14 feet.
Frankie’s Bait (651) 257-6334

CROSBY AREA
Rainbows and an occasional brown trout continue to be caught on Huntington Pit and Section Six Pit in 5 to 25 feet – look for suspended fish. A few walleyes are being caught at night on the Crosby end of Serpent Lake in 25 to 30 feet or the 12- to 16-foot rocks. Look to the north end of Clearwater Lake for suspended crappies over deep water or to Milford Lake for a mixed bag of panfish in 22 to 26 feet. The additional snow early this week has caused some drifting on most lakes so you need to watch for those.
Oars ‘n Mine Bait and Tackle (218) 546-6912

DETROIT LAKES AREA
You’ll find sunfish and crappies in 10 to 12 feet on Little Detroit Lake, Lake Melissa, and Eunice Lake. Northern pike are being caught on Lake Sallie in 12 to 14 feet and a few walleyes continue to be caught during low-light periods on Big Detroit Lake in 18 to 24 feet. With the recent snow, four-wheel drive is now needed on most lakes, especially off the main roads.
Quality Bait and Tackle (218) 844-2248


DULUTH AREA
More than a foot of snow hit the area this week so travel has become compromised on most lakes. Once everything settles down a bit and some roads are developed, look to Fish Lake for crappies in 16 to 18 feet and a few walleyes in 12 feet. Boulder Lake was giving up walleyes in 12 feet and crappies in 15 to 17 feet. Northern pike remain a safe option on Rice Lake in 6 feet.
Chalstrom’s Bait (218) 726-0094

ELY AREA
Fishing reports have been light, but that’s mainly due to about 15 inches of additional snow falling in this area. The snow has limited travel on most lakes. Some lake trout are being caught on Snowbank Lake over 60 feet and Burntside Lake over 40 feet, but there are some marginal roads plowed on these lakes.
The Great Outdoors (218) 365-4744

FAIRMONT AREA
Reports have been about the same as last week, it’s just a bit slower. Look to Hall Lake, Lake Sissiton, and Budd Lake for crappies and yellow bass in 15 to 18 feet. Sissiton also is producing bluegills in 15 feet, while anglers are sorting through perch for their keepers on Big Twin Lake in 12 to 20 feet.
Sommer Outdoors (507) 235-5225

FARIBAULT AREA
Look for suspended crappies on French Lake over 30 feet, while Cedar Lake is giving up crappies and sunfish in 12 feet. Union Lake is producing northern pike in 8 feet. Look to Circle Lake for perch in 10 feet, and Lake Mazaska is giving up sunfish and crappies over 25 to 30 feet. The bar on Shields Lake is producing panfish in 12 feet as well.
Nagel’s Live Bait (507) 334-8341


GRAND MARAIS AREA
A few walleyes continue to be caught on Saganaga and Seagull lakes in 25 to 30 feet or South Fowl Lake in 6 feet. Lake trout are hitting smelt, chubs, or large suckers on Saganaga in 20 to 25 feet, Greenwood Lake in 30 to 40 feet, and Trout Lake in 40 feet. Rainbow trout continue to be pulled from Kimball Lake in 15 to 18 feet, Leo Lake in 12 to 15 feet, and Mink Lake in 15 feet – waxworms are working best. More than 12 inches of snow fell this week, but travel on area lakes is excellent for snowmobiles.
Buck’s Hardware (218) 387-2280

GREY EAGLE AREA
Kings Lake started producing crappies over 20 feet, as is Twin Lake in 15 to 18 feet. Look to the north end of Big Swan Lake for crappies in 22 feet and sunfish in 15 feet. Some walleyes continue to be caught on Cedar Lake in 20 to 30 feet during low-light periods.
Nancy’s Bait & Tackle (320) 285-2405

HACKENSACK AREA
Look for bluegills in 15 to 20 feet on Mule Lake, Birch Lake, or Pleasant Lake, and crappies on the north side of Webb Lake in 18 to 25 feet. A few walleyes continue to be taken in 18 to 24 feet early and late each day on Pine Mountain Lake, Ten Mile Lake, and Baby Lake. This area received 6 to 8 inches of snow, so with the exception of some drifts, travel remains favorable on most lakes.
Swanson’s Bait and Tackle (218) 675-6176

HIBBING/CHISHOLM AREA
An additional 16 inches of snow fell here early this week and that’s brought fishing options on most lakes to a halt. Reports have been slow, snowmobiles are probably the best travel option heading into this weekend throughout the area.
Lucky 7 General Store (218) 254-7168

LONGVILLE AREA
You’ll find suspended crappies over 40 feet on Widow Lake and bluegills on the 12-hump of Lindsay Lake. Crappies also can be had on Lake Wabedo over 35 to 40 feet, and the 8-foot green weeds on Girl Lake are holding a mixed bag of panfish. The Hunter’s Bay area on Woman Lake is producing perch in 8 feet or 35 feet. With the additional snow this week, four-wheel drive is now a necessity on all lakes.
The One Stop (218) 363-2252


MADISON LAKE AREA
Hit Little Jefferson Lake for panfish and northern pike in 15 feet and for a few walleyes after dark in 10 to 15 feet. The Carpenter’s Point area on Lake Francis is producing panfish and pike, while crappies are being found suspended over the 25-foot hole here. On Madison Lake, crappies remain active in the narrows over 28 to 30 feet, East Bay is producing sunfish, and a few walleyes can be had near Miller’s Point in 20 feet.
Corner Bait (507) 243-4464

MORA AREA
Additional snowfall now means that four-wheel drive vehicles or snowmobiles are needed to move around area lakes. Northern pike continue to hit in 7 to 9 feet on Quamba Lake and Lake Eleven. Crappies and sunfish are hitting early and late each day on Ann Lake and Knife Lake in 9 to 12 feet. Some rainbow trout continue to come off Grindstone Lake in less than 8 feet.
Jerry’s Sport & Bait Shop (320) 679-2151

ORTONVILLE AREA
Perch action continues to be tough on Big Stone Lake with a few pods of fish being found in 12 feet around the islands up to Rocky Ledge. Find the dirtier water on Big Stone and you’ll catch a few walleyes in 6 to 8 feet, while the main basin area is giving up more crappies after dark.
Artie’s Bait (320) 839-2480

PARK RAPIDS AREA
Crappies continue to hit on Big Mantrap Lake over 25 to 30 feet, while Portage Lake and Pickerel Lake are giving up northern pike in 8 to 12 feet. An occasional walleye comes off Potato lake in 26 to 32 feet during low-light periods and look to Height of Land Lake or Sixth Crow Wing Lake for bluegills in 10 to 12 feet. This area received 8 to 10 inches of snow so traveling off main roads is a bit more challenging on some lakes.
Delaney’s (218) 732-4281
Smokey Hills Outdoors (218) 237-5099

PERHAM AREA
Crappies and sunfish are hitting in 8 to 12 feet on Star Lake, Dead Lake, Little McDonald Lake, and Rush Lake. Big Pine Lake and Little Pine Lake are kicking out a few walleyes in 22 to 30 feet during low-light periods, both in the mornings and evenings. Look to Little Pine, Loon Lake, and Long Lake for suspended tullibees over deep water.
Gene’s Sport Shop (218) 346-3355

RICHMOND/ST. CLOUD AREA
Channel catfish have been found on the 5- to 7-foot shelves or suspended over deep water on Cedar Island Lake and Horseshoe Lake. Sunfish reports have been limited, but a few crappies are being caught on Eden Lake and Rice Lake in 20 to 24 feet of water, for those willing to put in a little bit of effort.
Channel Marine and Sports (320) 597-5975

SAUK CENTRE AREA
Sunfish and crappie action has improved on the north end of Lake Osakis in 16 to 20 feet. Look to Maple Lake for sunfish, northern pike, and a few crappies in 12 to 14 feet, while Sauk Lake is giving up walleyes overnight in 24 to 45 feet.
Fletcher’s Bait Shop (320) 352-2155

STAPLES/LITTLE FALLS AREA
Look to Lake Alexander for suspended crappies over 25 feet and Beauty Lake is kicking out sunfish and crappies in 12 to 15 feet. Nokasippi Lake continues to give up sunfish in 15 to 20 feet and Fish Trap Lake is producing crappies over 25 feet during low-light periods.
Da Fishin’ Hole (320) 631-0056

WILLMAR AREA
Look to Willmar/Foot Lake for crappies and sunfish in 18 to 22 feet. Big Kandi Lake and Lake Lillian are giving up perch and a few walleyes in 6 to 8 feet. Northern pike and panfish can be had on Lake Andrew or Florida Lake in 14 to 20 feet.
Brad’s 71 Bait and Sports (320) 235-4097

WINDOM/MARSHALL AREA
Walleyes are being caught during the evening hours, into the night, on Lake Sarah and Lake Shetek in 8 to 9 feet. Dead Coon Lake also is producing walleyes in 5 to 7 feet, and West Twin Lake is giving up perch in 6 to 8 feet. Look to East Twin Lake for walleyes and perch in 9 to 11 feet.
Borch’s Sporting Goods (507) 532-4880

[Lee Borgersen]

      Regional Fishing Reports!

  .. March 2, 2018





LAKE MILLE LACS       

Perch and tullibees are being caught off the deep mud and gravel areas in 25 to 32 feet. Often times, bigger pods of fish are being found off the structure in 30 feet or more in the main basin areas. Northern pike angling remains open with the bays and even deep structure producing fish. Check with resorts on road conditions, roads have been plowed, but traveling off them in some areas is difficult.

Johnson’s Portside (320) 676-3811

Terry’s Boat Harbor (320) 692-4430

LAKE OF THE WOODS

This past week presented some good days and some OK days. Some schools are aggressive and attack a jig, while others are window watchers following jigs through the water column and just cruising through. Electronics are big right now, and most anglers are graphing fish all day in 27 to 33 feet on the south shore. The reefs to the west continue to put out fish as well. The Rainy River is putting out some bigger walleyes during the morning/evening hours with an occasional sturgeon. At the Northwest Angle, walleyes and sauger are hitting in 19 to 24 feet. In Ontario waters, crappies remain suspended over 28 to 32 feet off most points.

Lake of the Woods Tourism Bureau (800) 382-FISH

LAKE MINNETONKA AREA   

Panfish action has been sporadic with some sunfish being found tight to the weeds in 8 to 16 feet on Lake Minnetonka, Lake Independence, and Medicine Lake. Crappies are being found suspended over 15 to 25 feet during the evening hours on these lakes as well. The North Arm on Minnetonka and Independence are also giving up some crappies during the day in 20 to 25 feet.

Wayzata Bait (952) 473-2227

LAKE VERMILION

Deep snow and drifts after last weekend’s snow has made it difficult to travel on many areas of the lake. Some roads have been plowed and a few walleyes are being caught just off the main roads in Big Bay off McKinley Park and out of Everett Bay in 22 to 30 feet. Snowmobiles are now the best option if you want to get to other parts of the lake.

Pike Bay Lodge (218) 753-2430

LAKE WINNIBIGOSHISH

Perch continue to be caught in 18 to 24 feet on main lake structure throughout the lake, if you can reach it. Off-road travel is not an option due to deep snow and you have to check with resorts for access availability. If you go off a public access, snowmobiles are your best transportation option.

Lake Winnie Resort Association

LEECH LAKE

Snowmobiles are the best travel option after last week’s snow with limited roads being plowed now that the walleye season is closed – check with resorts. Tullibees are being found suspended over 25 to 30 feet off Stony Point and the Paris Trench area. Perch action has been sporadic with some sorting involved. Look to Sand Point, Goose Island, the Hardwoods, and Duck Points in 9 to 14 feet.

Reed’s Sporting Goods (218) 547-1505

Shriver’s Bait Company (218) 547-2250

RAINY LAKE

Walleyes are responding to live bait whether you are jigging or using it under a bobber throughout Sand Bay. Crappies also prefer minnows at this point, but have bit less consistently. With the Rainy Lake Ice Road now connecting the area of Black Bay and Cranberry Bay, anglers have been hitting the mouths of both bays targeting northern pike. Along the road, you can find some good structure for walleyes in 25 to 30 feet, especially at the east end of Dryweed Island.

International Falls CVB (800) 325-5766

RED LAKE

With the walleye and northern pike season now closed angler traffic has been minimal. A few crappies and some keeping-size perch are biting on the 13- to 14-foot mud flats, but the bite is sporadic right now. Most of the winter ice roads are closed, so it’s best to call your intended access point for updates.

Mort’s Dock (218) 647-8128

Twin Cities Metro

NORTHEAST METRO

Fishing reports have been limited and travel on some lakes has become difficult after last weekend’s snow. Once the snow settles, look to Lake Jane for sunfish in 10 to 15 feet or Big Carnelian Lake for crappies over 25 to 30 feet.

Blue Ribbon Bait & Tackle (651) 777-2421

WEST METRO

Whaletail Lake continues to produce crappies in 14 to 16 feet and Wasserman Lake is giving up crappies in 12 to 18 feet. A few sunfish are being caught on Lake Susan in 16 to 18 feet, and Rietz Lake is giving up crappies in 10 to 14 feet straight out from the access. Although some additional snow fell last weekend, vehicle travel remains an option on most lakes.

Cabin Fever Sports (952) 443-2022

SOUTH METRO

Look for crappies and sunfish in less than 10 feet or over 20 to 22 feet on Prior Lake. Fishing reports off other lakes have been limited and vehicle travel is good on some lakes and compromised on others after last weekend’s snow.

Prior Lake Bait & Tackle (952) 447-6096

LAKE WACONIA

Sunfish are hitting during the day, as are crappies at night in 10 to 15 feet on Center Reef, Pillsbury Reef, and the south end weedline in Wagener’s Bay. Roads have been plowed, and if you avoid the large drifts, you can get around with four-wheel drive off the main roads. The marina will be closing on Sunday until the spring.

Mases In Towne Marina (952) 442-2096

Statewide

ALEXANDRIA AREA

Lake Darling, Lake Le Homme Dieu, and Lake Geneva are producing crappies in 10 to 15 feet or 20 to 25 feet. Look to Maple Lake for crappies in 12 to 15 feet, while sunfish reports have been limited to a few fish off Cowdry Lake and Brophy Lake in shallow water. There are some roads plowed and you can get around on the majority of lakes with four-wheel drive.

Christopherson’s Bait and Tackle (320) 763-3255

ANNANDALE AREA

Additional snow last weekend has made traveling on many lakes more difficult, even with four-wheel drive. But once accesses and roads are opened and the snow settles a bit, lakes such as Clearwater, John, Indian, Granite, Sylvia, Little Maple, and Sugar are worth noting for panfish in 10 to 15 feet.

Little Jim’s Bait (320) 274-5297

BATTLE LAKE AREA

Crappies are hitting on West Battle Lake, Clitherall Lake, and Rush Lake in 18 to 20 feet. Look for sunfish on Rush, Bass Lake, and Fish Lake in 8 to 12 feet. A few tullibees are starting to be found suspended over deep water on Mollie Stark Lake and Clitherall. Snowmobiles or four-wheel drive are needed to get around on area lakes.

Ben’s Bait Shop (218) 864-5596

BEMIDJI AREA

This area received over 2 feet of snow last week, and travel other than with a snowmobile is very tough. But the warmer weather this week should settle some of the snow and make the lakes a bit more accessible. The shallower flats on Lake Bemidji and Lake Plantagenet are producing nice perch in 8 to 12 feet. There hasn’t been much else to report, as the snow has really limited fishing options.

Dick Beardsley Guide Service (218) 556-7172

BLACKDUCK AREA

The 20-foot mud areas on Blackduck Lake, Island Lake, and Round Lake are giving up perch. Look to Pimushe Lake and Gull Lake for crappies and bluegills in 18 to 22 feet. A few roads have been plowed on some lakes, but traveling off the main roads was difficult early this week.

Timberline Sports and Tackle (218) 835-4636

BRAINERD/NISSWA AREA

Fishing reports have been light, primarily due to last weekend’s snow. As the snow settles and roads are open on area lakes, look to Nisswa Lake, Cullen Lake, and the Hwy. 371 bay on North Long Lake for sunfish in 8 to 12 feet. The north end of Gull Lake is producing eelpout and tullibees over 30 to 40 feet. Crappies will continue to be found suspended over 20 to 25 feet on Hubert Lake, Nisswa, and Gull.

S & W Bait & Guide Service/Nisswa Guide League (218) 829-7010

CASS LAKE AREA

Crappies are being found in 15 to 20 feet on the west side of Pike Bay Lake, the northwest corner of Lake Andrusia, and in Allen’s Bay on Cass Lake. Sunfish are being found suspended over 20 to 25 feet on the north side of Kitchi Lake and west side of Pike Bay. The 6- to 8-foot sand/grass areas around Star Island on Cass, Grace Lake, and the northeast corner of Pike Bay are producing perch. This area didn’t receive as much snow and much of it blew off the lakes, so vehicle travel remains favorable.

Sunset Cove Resort (800) 279-4831

CHISAGO AREA  

Some roads have been plowed and off-road travel is difficult, but not impossible with four-wheel drive on most lakes. You should be able to get around on all area lakes by this weekend. You’ll find crappies on the south end of Chisago in the 5- to 10-foot weeds or suspended over the 20-foot holes. A mixed bag of panfish can be had from the 10- to 14-foot weeds on North and South Lindstrom lakes. Look to the channel on Little Green Lake or by the Girl Scout Camp and Lidberg Point area on Big Green for crappies.

Frankie’s Bait (651) 257-6334

CROSBY AREA

Unless there’s a plowed road or you have a snowmobile, it’s pretty tough to get around on most lakes. Fishing reports have been light as a result, but with the warmer weather this week, it’s likely the snow will settle enough for anglers to start getting on some lakes by this weekend.

Oars ‘n Mine Bait and Tackle (218) 546-6912

DETROIT LAKES AREA

With the snow continuing to pile up, traveling off any plowed roads with a vehicle is difficult. Little Detroit Lake, Lake Melissa, and Floyd Lake do have some roads open and they are giving up sunfish and crappies in 10 to 12 feet.

Quality Bait and Tackle (218) 844-2248

DULUTH AREA  

This area received about 24 inches of snow, so moving around on most lakes is difficult, even with a snowmobile, due to slush pockets that have developed. There is a road plowed in the Highbanks area of Fish Lake, and some crappies are being caught in 16 feet.

Chalstrom’s Bait (218) 726-0094

FAIRMONT AREA

Crappies and yellow bass continue to be caught in 15 to 18 feet on Hall Lake, Budd Lake, and Lake Sissiton. Look to Big Twin Lake for perch in 15 to 20 feet and to Sissiton for a few bluegills in 12 to 15 feet.

Sommer Outdoors (507) 235-5225

FARIBAULT AREA

Look to Cedar Lake for sunfish and crappies in 18 to 20 feet, while the 30- to 35-foot hole on French Lake is producing crappies, most of which are suspended. Lake Mazaska is giving up crappies in 20 to 25 feet, and the bars on Shields Lake are safe bets for sunfish.

Nagel’s Live Bait (507) 334-8341

GRAND MARAIS AREA

The snow continued to pile up last weekend, so it has become quite difficult to get on most lakes, even with a snowmobile, due to slush. Anglers are walking on and catching rainbow trout with waxworms at Mink Lake and Kimball Lake in 15 to 20 feet and Leo Lake in 18 to 20 feet. Foot travel also is an option on Gunflint Lake, where lake trout are biting over 45 feet of water.

Buck’s Hardware (218) 387-2280

GREY EAGLE AREA

Early this week, it was difficult to drive on most lakes with the snow filling in accesses and any ice roads that did exist. But the snow was settling quickly, so there should be more fishing options by this weekend. Look to Moose Lake for crappies and sunfish in 8 to 12 feet or the north end of Long Lake (by the Hub Supper Club) for sunfish in 8 to 10 feet. Hit Kings Lake for crappies in 18 to 20 feet or Big Swan Lake for bluegills and crappies in 15 to 20 feet.

Nancy’s Bait & Tackle (320) 285-2405

HACKENSACK AREA

Deep snow was limiting vehicle travel on area lakes this week, although some anglers are getting around with snowmobiles. Fishing reports have been limited, but the snow is expected to settle enough for four-wheel drive use by this weekend.

Swanson’s Bait and Tackle (218) 675-6176

HIBBING/CHISHOLM AREA

Unless you have a snowmobile, there’s no chance of traveling on area lakes after another round of heavy snow last week. As a result, fishing reports have been nearly nonexistent, and will be until the snow settles.

Lucky 7 General Store (218) 254-7168

McGREGOR AREA

Fishing reports have been limited since last week’s snow, and although a few roads have been plowed, traveling off them is nearly impossible. Most anglers are hoping the snow settles enough throughout the week so they can get on a few lakes by this weekend.

Willey’s Sport Shop & Spirits (218) 426-3382

MORA AREA

Another round of measurable snow has limited lake travel, and some slush has started to show up as well. With the warm weather this week, it’s likely the snow will settle enough to allow for some four-wheel-drive travel on select lakes by this weekend. Look to Ann Lake and Knife Lake for sunfish and crappies in 9 to 12 feet.

Jerry’s Sport & Bait Shop (320) 679-2151

ORTONVILLE AREA

Ice roads have been plowed, and with four-wheel drive you can get off the roads and travel to most areas. Perch action picked up a bit early this week with good reports coming out of 12 feet of water south of Laguna Beach and the Rocky Ledge area. There has been some good-size bluegills mixed in as well.

Artie’s Bait (320) 839-2480

PARK RAPIDS AREA

Big Mantrap Lake is producing crappies in 24 to 28, as is Sixth Crow Wing Lake in 18 to 22 feet. Look to Height of Land Lake for sunfish in 8 to 12 feet. Anglers have been limited to the few roads that exist on area lakes, and off-road travel is tough, even with four-wheel drive.

Delaney’s (218) 732-4281

Smokey Hills Outdoors (218) 237-5099

PERHAM AREA

More than 12 inches of snow fell here last week, but it is condensing, so traveling on most lakes with a four-wheel-drive vehicle should be an option by this weekend. Look to Dead Lake, Star Lake, Rush Lake, and Little McDonald Lake for panfish in 8 to 12 feet. Loon Lake, Long Lake, and Star are worth noting for a few tullibees over deep water.

Gene’s Sport Shop (218) 346-3355

RED WING AREA

Work the 18- to 22-foot current breaks during the day for sauger or the 12- to 15-foot current breaks for walleyes during low-light periods on the Mississippi River. A jig and minnow is working best, and Everts Access is wide open for boats.

Four Seasons Sports (651) 388-4334

RICHMOND/ST. CLOUD AREA

Channel catfish continue to be caught on Horseshoe Lake and Cedar Island Lake in 10 to 18 feet during low-light periods and deeper during the day. Sunfish and crappies are being found in 8 to 12 feet throughout the Horseshoe Chain, while crappies are being caught on Rice Lake in 15 to 20 feet and Pearl Lake in 12 to 14 feet.

Channel Marine and Sports (320) 597-5975

SAUK CENTRE AREA

The north end of Lake Osakis continues to produce crappies and sunfish in 18 to 21 feet – grass shrimp are a must for bait. The northwest corner of Maple Lake is kicking out sunfish in 12 to 14 feet, and Long Bridge Lake is giving up crappies early and late each day in 14 feet.

Fletcher’s Bait Shop (320) 352-2155

STAPLES/LITTLE FALLS AREA

Sunfish are being caught on Beauty Lake in 6 to 10 feet and Nokasippi Lake in 12 to 15 feet. Crappies are hitting over 20 feet on Fish Trap Lake, on the 12- to 15-foot weed edges and sunken islands of Thunder Lake, and along the 15- to 20-foot weedlines of Lake Alexander. Some roads have been plowed, and off-road travel should be good by this weekend with 4X4s.

Da Fishin’ Hole (320) 631-0056

STARBUCK AREA

Sunfish continue to be caught on the Glenwood end of Lake Minnewaska in 12 feet, but panfish action has been slow on other lakes. This area also received snow last weekend, but most anglers are getting around with four-wheel-drive trucks and snowmobiles.

Minnewaska Bait and Tackle (320) 239-2239

WILLMAR AREA

Willmar/Foot Lake is producing crappies in 18 to 22 feet, but other reports have been limited since last week’s snow. The snow didn’t pile up quite as much in this area, so moving around with four-wheel-drive trucks remains an option on most lakes.

Brad’s 71 Bait and Sports (320) 235-4097

WINDOM/MARSHALL AREA

Perch, bluegill, and crappie reports have been limited although there haven’t been many people looking for them at this point. The good news is that moving around on most lakes is not an issue with four-wheel-drive vehicles.

Borch’s Sporting Goods (507) 532-4880

[Lee Borgersen]

Minnesota Regional Fishing Reports
 
                                             

                                     

 – March 14, 2018





LAKE MILLE LACS       

Fishing pressure continues to be light since the walleye season closed. Deep snow also is limiting travel options and there aren’t many roads plowed. Check with resorts for road options heading into this weekend.

Johnson’s Portside (320) 676-3811

Terry’s Boat Harbor (320) 692-4430

LAKE OF THE WOODS

Electronics continue to be a huge help as some walleyes are aggressive, others must be enticed, and some are suspended. The bite has been best in  24 to 33 feet and continues to push shallower. Small, glow presentations are working best tipped with a shiner or chub head/tail. Northern pike fishing is on fire with many 35- to 43-inch fish caught. The Rainy River is kicking out some bigger walleyes in the morning/evening hours with an occasional sturgeon mixed in. At the Northwest Angle, walleyes, saugers and pike are doing well in 17 to 19 feet late in the day or 21 to 25 feet during midday hours. Crappies are being caught in holes of 25 feet or deeper.

Lake of the Woods Tourism Bureau (800) 382-FISH

LAKE MINNETONKA AREA    

On Lake Minnetonka, crappies and sunfish are hitting in 16 feet in Carson’s Bay and the North Arm, while sunfish are biting in 8 feet in Seton Bay and Black Lake. Medicine Lake is producing sunfish in 10 to 13 feet, and you’ll find suspended crappies over 28 feet on Lake Independence.

Wayzata Bait (952) 473-2227

LAKE VERMILION

Fishing reports continue to be limited, mainly due to tough travel conditions throughout the lake. Plowed roads are limited so snowmobiles and portable shelters are needed. Crappie and northern pike action has been slow as a result.

Pike Bay Lodge (218) 753-2430

LAKE WINNIBIGOSHISH

The Raven’s Point area in 10 to 15 feet or 22 to 24 feet and the main lake bars in 15 to 20 feet continue to be best for perch, but start looking for more fish to start showing up in shallower water. You also have to continue checking with resorts for road options, which are limited. Off-road travel is difficult.

Lake Winnie Resort Association

LEECH LAKE

You have to sort through some small fish, but the Sand Point area is producing perch in 8 to 18 feet. Tullibee anglers continue to do well off Stoney Point, finding suspended fish over 30 to 40 feet. Other areas on the lake have been tough to get to due to deep snow and a lack of roads – snowmobiles remain the best travel option.

Reed’s Sporting Goods (218) 547-1505

Shriver’s Bait Company (218) 547-2250

RAINY LAKE    

The Sand Bay area is most accessible so it continues to give up walleyes in 22 to 28 feet. Anglers with snowmobiles are traveling to other areas such as American Narrows and finding a few walleyes and northern pike as well.

International Falls CVB (800) 325-5766

RED LAKE

Fishing pressure has been minimal since the walleye season closed and continued to be this week. Crappie reports have been nonexistent, but few have been looking for them.

Mort’s Dock (218) 647-8128

Twin Cities Metro

WEST METRO

Look to Whaletail Lake for crappies and sunfish in 10 feet. Hit Pillsbury Reef and Center Reef on Lake Waconia for sunfish in 10 to 12 feet. The rock dock area on Waconia is giving up crappies in 12 to 14 feet. On Hydes Lake, crappies and sunfish are being caught in 10 to 14 feet.

Cabin Fever Sports (952) 443-2022

SOUTH METRO

Fishing reports have been limited to the north end of Prior Lake for sunfish in 12 to 22 feet. The backside of Kneassey’s Cove on Prior is producing sunfish and crappies as well. Fishing reports have dropped, mainly due to the lack of anglers heading out.

Prior Lake Bait & Tackle (952) 447-6096

Statewide

ALEXANDRIA AREA

Lake Darling is producing crappies during the evening hours over 28 to 30 feet or 10 to 12 feet. Christopherson’s Bay on Lake Ida is giving up crappies and a few sunfish in 8 to 10 feet. Look to Smith Lake for sunfish and crappies in 10 to 12 feet and to Lake Le Homme Dieu for crappies in 18 to 22 feet. Deep snow continues to limit where anglers can get to on most lakes.

Christopherson’s Bait and Tackle (320) 763-3255

ANNANDALE AREA

You’ll find suspended crappies in the “Black Pool” on Clearwater Lake early and late each day. Crappies and sunfish are being caught in 12 to 20 feet on lakes Sylvia, Union, Indian, Rock, Granite, Silver, and Clearwater. Look for sunfish during the day and crappies during low-light periods on the aforementioned lakes.

Little Jim’s Bait (320) 274-5297

BATTLE LAKE AREA

Crappies are hitting on West Battle Lake, Rush Lake, and Stalker Lake in 15 to 20 feet during low-light periods. Sunfish action has been best on East Lost Lake, Bass Lake, and Fish Lake in 10 to 12 feet. Look for suspended tullibees over 30 feet or deeper on Mollie Stark Lake and Clitherall Lake. Trucks are being used on most lakes, but there are some pockets of slush starting to develop.

Ben’s Bait Shop (218) 864-5596

BEMIDJI AREA

Not much has changed since last  week. Travel on area lakes is still very limited and snowmobiles are your best mode of transportation. Not many folks have gone out, but those that do are catching perch in 8 to 12 feet on Lake Bemidji and Lake Plantagenet. Accesses are still in good shape, the problem is moving around once you’re on the lakes.

Dick Beardsley Guide Service (218) 556-7172

BLACKDUCK AREA

Blackduck Lake is producing yellow perch, crappies, and bluegills in 8 to 14 feet or 18 to 20 feet. Look to Island Lake and Round Lake for perch in 6 to 12 feet or 14 to 18 feet. Gull Lake and Lake Pimushe are giving up panfish in 16 to 20 feet of water. Travel conditions are improving with the warm weather, but you can’t just run anywhere on most lakes.

Timberline Sports and Tackle (218) 835-4636

BRAINERD/NISSWA AREA

Crappies have started hitting on Round Lake over 8 to 15 feet, and the northeast corner of Gull Lake is producing perch in 6 to 10 feet. The north end of Gull is giving up eelpout in 20 to 30 feet and tullibees over 40 to 80 feet. Look for crappies and sunfish in 8 to 15 feet on North Long Lake and Nisswa Lake.

S & W Bait & Guide Service/Nisswa Guide League  (218) 829-7010

CASS LAKE AREA

The edges of the bars on Pike Bay Lake and Cass Lake are producing eelpout during the evening hours. Look for perch on the sand/weed areas of Cass and Pike Bay in 8 to 10 feet. The north arm of Kitchi Lake is giving up crappies and bluegills in 6 to 12 feet.

Sunset Cove Resort (800) 279-4831

CHISAGO AREA 

North and South Lindstrom lakes continue to produce sunfish and crappies in 10 to 14 feet. Work the south end of Chisago Lake in 8 to 12 feet or the channel area on Little Green Lake for crappies. The Girl Scout Camp area on Big Green Lake is still giving up crappies as well.

Frankie’s Bait (651) 257-6334

CROSBY AREA

The Deerwood end of Serpent Lake started giving up crappies in 15 to 18 feet. Big Mahnomen Lake and June Lake are producing sunfish and crappies in 10 to 12 feet. A few sunfish and crappies continue to come off Upper Dean Lake in 14 to 17 feet. Snowmobiles or walking out remain the best option due to deep snow and slush on most lakes, while trucks are being used on some – call ahead for lake conditions going into this weekend.

Oars ‘n Mine Bait and Tackle (218) 546-6912

DETROIT LAKES AREA

Look to Floyd Lake for sunfish and crappies in 10 to 15 feet. Star Lake and Long Lake started giving up better numbers of tullibees – look for suspended fish over 30 feet or more. Four-wheel drive trucks are again being used on most lakes.

Quality Bait and Tackle (218) 844-2248

DULUTH AREA  

Fish Lake continues to produce crappies in 16 feet and a few bluegills in 10 feet. If the ice blows out, anglers fishing from shore in various spots along Lake Superior are catching Kamloops rainbow trout and a few coho salmon. The French River area has been good when fishable conditions exist. Looper Bugs and spawn sacs under a float are working best. Deep snow continues to limit travel on many inland lakes.

Chalstrom’s Bait (218) 726-0094

EAST CENTRAL MN

Look for crappies on Green Lake in 20 feet or Little Elk Lake in 11 feet. A few sunfish and crappies have been reported on Ann Lake and Rush Lake by Ogilvie in 12 to 15 feet.

Tales and Trails Sport Shop (763) 856-3985

ELY AREA

A few lake trout were being found suspended and hitting minnows on Snowbank Lake in over 40 to 60 feet and Burntside Lake in 20 to 50 feet. Crappie reports have been limited, but snow and slush is limiting travel on most lakes.

The Great Outdoors (218) 365-4744

FAIRMONT AREA

Yellow bass and crappies were hitting on Budd Lake and Lake Sissiton in 15 to 18 feet of water. You need to start watching the accesses on some lakes, especially with the warm weather this week.

Sommer Outdoors (507) 235-5225

FARIBAULT AREA

Shields Lake is giving up sunfish and crappies in 18 to 20 feet and Cedar Lake is producing sunfish over 25 feet. On the northwest corner of French Lake, crappies are being found suspended over 30 feet.

Nagel’s Live Bait (507) 334-8341

GRAND MARAIS AREA

Rainbow trout are biting well on Trout Lake in 12 to 15 feet, Leo Lake in 15 to 18 feet, and Mink Lake in 12 to 16 feet – waxworms, minnows, or preserved minnows are working best. Lake trout action has been best on Gunflint Lake in 18 to 25 feet or 50 to 60 feet, Loon Lake in 40 to 45 feet, and Sea Gull Lake in 30 to 35 feet – minnows and smelt are producing fish. Snowmobiles are working fine, but you do have to watch for slush pockets.

Buck’s Hardware (218) 387-2280

HACKENSACK AREA

Bluegills are hitting on Birch Lake and the north end of Mule Lake in 15 to 20 feet during the day. Look for crappies on the north side of Webb Lake, Pleasant Lake, and Stony Lake in 15 to 20 feet during the evening hours. Snowmobiles and ATVs are being used on most lakes, with some limited truck travel on a few.

Swanson’s Bait and Tackle (218) 675-6176

LONGVILLE AREA

Look to Mable Lake for sunfish in the 10- to 12-foot weeds and Big Boy Lake for sunfish in 12 feet. The first bay on Blackwater Lake is giving up crappies in 30 feet. The backside of Government Point on Woman Lake started giving up a few perch in 10 feet. Track vehicles are the best option on most lakes with deep snow and slush limiting travel.

The One Stop (218) 363-2252

MADISON LAKE AREA

Look to the Church Bar on Madison Lake for crappies in 20 to 25 feet. Baker’s Bay on Lake Washington is producing sunfish and a few crappies in 12 to 18 feet, while German Lake is giving up  crappies over 20 to 25 feet.

Corner Bait (507) 243-4464

McGREGOR AREA

Sunfish and a few crappies have started hitting on Lake Minnewawa in 8 to 10 feet and Big Sandy Lake in slightly deeper water. Snowmobiles remain the best option for travel as there are pockets of slush to avoid.

Willey’s Sport Shop & Spirits (218) 426-3382

MORA AREA

The number of people fishing has been light, mainly due to slush that’s developed on many lakes. Some sunfish and crappies continue to be caught during the evening hours in 8 to 12 feet on Knife Lake and Fish Lake.

Jerry’s Sport & Bait Shop (320) 679-2151

ORTONVILLE AREA

Fishing pressure has dropped since fish houses had to be removed. Stay on the move until you locate a pod of perch on Big Stone Lake. Look to the islands on the south end of the lake or the Sodak area in 12 feet.

Artie’s Bait (320) 839-2480

PARK RAPIDS AREA

Look to Fish Hook Lake for crappies in 22 to 26 feet and bluegills in 8 to 12 feet. Sixth Crow Wing Lake is producing crappies in 20 to 22 and bluegills in 8 to 10 feet. The north end of Big Mantrap Lake is giving up crappies in 22 to 28 feet. Anglers are limited to the above lakes, primarily because some roads have been plowed on them. If there isn’t a road opened, track vehicles are needed to move around.

Delaney’s (218) 732-4281

Smokey Hills Outdoors (218) 237-5099

PERHAM AREA

Crappies and bluegills are being caught on Rush Lake and Star Lake in 12 to 14 feet. Tullibee action has picked up over deep water on Little Pine Lake and Star. The snow has settled enough to start allowing some trucks to be used on certain lakes, although snowmobiles or track vehicles are best on most lakes.

Gene’s Sport Shop (218) 346-3355

RED WING AREA

The Mississippi River continued to be very clear, so the early morning and evening hours have been best for walleyes. A jig tipped with plastics or minnows has produced numbers of walleyes and some sauger along the current seams in 16 to 20 feet during the day or 10 to 15 feet early and late. Numbers of bigger walleyes have been biting this week. Anglers also have been pulling some big northern pike through the ice in the back bays and marinas off the main river.

Four Seasons Sports (651) 388-4334

RICHMOND/ST. CLOUD AREA

Crappies continue to be caught on Rice Lake in 10 to 20 feet, and Cedar Island Lake is giving up a mixed bag of panfish from 6 to 25 feet depending on the area. Becker Lake is producing sunfish in 10 to 18 feet, while catfish continue to be caught throughout the Horseshoe Chain of Lakes from the shallower shelves in less than 10 feet or you’ll find suspended fish over 20 feet or more.

Channel Marine and Sports (320) 597-5975

SAUK CENTRE AREA

The north end of Lake Osakis continues to give up sunfish and crappies, on grass shrimp, in 18 to 20 feet. Look to Maple Lake and Long Bridge Lake for a mixed bag of panfish in 12 to 14 feet. Guernsey Lake is producing crappies in 14 feet, while sunfish are being caught on Fairy Lake in 12 feet and Lilly Lake in 20 to 28 feet.

Fletcher’s Bait Shop (320) 352-2155

STAPLES/LITTLE FALLS AREA

It continues to be pretty difficult to travel on most lakes due to deep snow and slush. Conditions are slowly improving and getting around should continue to get better with this week’s warmer weather. Green Prairie Lake is giving up a few sunfish in 10 to 14 feet.

Da Fishin’ Hole (320) 631-0056

STARBUCK AREA

Sunfish are being caught on the Glenwood end of Lake Minnewaska in 12 feet from the Lakeside Ballroom up to Bottle Bay. Sunfish reports also have picked up on Little Mary Lake, Pocket Lake, and Grant Lake in 9 to 11 feet.

Minnewaska Bait and Tackle (320) 239-2239

WILLMAR AREA

Fishing reports have been limited to a few sunfish and crappies off Diamond Lake and Willmar/Foot Lake in 18 to 20 feet. Eagle Lake is giving up some panfish in 15 to 20 feet, as is the northwest corner of Green Lake in 14 to 22 feet.

Brad’s 71 Bait and Sports (320) 235-4097

WINDOM/MARSHALL AREA

Lake Shetek is giving up a few crappies and some perch are coming off  Lake Sarah in 6 feet. Look to Fox Lake for perch in less than 6 feet. Lake conditions are slowly improving.

Borch’s Sporting Goods (507) 532-4880