The bite in the Bemidji area is hot; any fish species you wish to target is on the chew and it’s a fantastic time to be fishing. Lately, I have been focusing on walleye fishing. I have found success recently by fishing break lines and weed lines. The way I like to do this is dependent on wind conditions that particular day. I like to graph the wind blown side of mid-lake humps and underwater points first. If I don’t see any fish that catch my attention on my electronics, I will then make a pass through weeds if there are any in the area.
The best bait for this is either a leech or a night crawler on a Lindy rig. Neither of the two has been better than the other consistently, so I like to use one of each when I have others fishing with me. The weeds I’m looking are primarily cabbage beds because they are starting to green now and when I have found green cabbage I usually find walleyes along with it. My best days in the last week have come off of break lines in 16 – 25ft. I prefer this way of fishing because I can see these fish on my Humminbird and I know I am on top of them.
The bluegill fishing has also been good, with many fish being found in the reeds and cabbage between 4 – 8ft. I have been using a slip bobber and a Clam Maki Plastic to target these fish and it’s worked quite well. Largemouth bass are now post-spawn in most of our lakes as well. Again, reed beds and some dock fishing will produce many bass. My favorite way to target largemouth this time of year is by using a 3/8 oz. All-Terrain Tackle jig and a Reaction Innovations Double Wide Beaver in black/blue or green pumpkin.
If you are looking for a guided trip in the Bemidji Lakes Area this summer feel free to contact me. My rates and information can be found on my page. We will get out on the water and have a great time rippin’ lips.
Good luck on the water and tight lines!
Matt Newell
Newell’s Bemidji Area Guide Service
Team Yukon Outdoors
