KABETOGAMA-NAMAKAN 5-7-2007

[JohnWester]

Here we go with a fresh new season, the Kabetogama-Namakan basin has been avoid of ice since April 30th, so the timing of opening and ice out should be favorable for anglers. Spawning should be wrapped up with some males lingering in the shallow waters. Everything looks favorable for a shallow water success for walleyes and northerns. A cold front could be a spoiler sending the fish to deeper water. Jig and minnow should prove to be the best choice for walleyes, and pike will probably surprise anglers taking the same bait as they should be plentiful. Light jigs or floaters over shallow gravel beds might be a good start before moving to mid-depth reefs. Anglers might find some action on leeches; however, those wanting jumbos may have to wait. DNR early reports show a pretty strong sauger population which will help anglers with the new regulations. All anglers remember the Namakan basin, which includes Kabetogama, Namakan, Sand Point and Crane Lakes have a new experimental walleye regulation. All walleyes between 17" and 28" must be released immediately. The new bag limit is 4(four) walleyes with two additional saugers allowed. Simply stated you may take a combination of 6(six) sauger and walleye, of which not more than 4(four) may be walleyes. Don't forget smallmouth bass will be opening on these Northern lakes as well. Good Luck, have a Good Season and a Great Opener....

KABETOGAMA-NAMAKAN - Gateway Store, Phil Hart, US Hwy 53 & Co Rd 122, 30 miles south of Int'l Falls-Canadian border, kabfishingreport.com (218-875-2121)