Fishing can be difficult, but it doesn’t have to be. We visit with some of our fishing experts to reveal how they simplify finding and catching fish, along with some of their favorite tactics and baits they use to make fishing easier.
In this article, we will be discussing the latest fishing reports from various locations, including Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Lake Vermilion. We will cover the current walleye bite, as well as tips and techniques for catching other species such as bluegill, crappie, and northern pike. Additionally, we will highlight some cool fishing products that can make your fishing experience easier and more enjoyable. So, let’s dive in and explore the world of fishing!
Walleye Bite in Minnesota
According to Troy Peterson, the walleye bite in Minnesota is really heating up. He suggests looking for water clarity when the sun is high and the skies are blue and calm. During these conditions, the walleye can be found out over the mud flats, targeting depths of 18 to 20 feet. Trolling crankbaits in purple colors, such as Salomon Hornets, Flicker Minnows, and Flicker Shads, has been very effective in catching walleye. Peterson also mentions that the three-fish limit for walleye has gone into effect this year, allowing each person to take home three walleye. He emphasizes that there are plenty of great eaters to take advantage of.
Fishing Techniques in Leech Lake
Moving on to Leech Lake, Brian Bros Dahl reports that the fish are moving out on the rocks and feeding on crayfish. When the water temperature gets close to 70 degrees, the fish start pounding crayfish, making it the perfect time to use spinners. Bros Dahl recommends using a Northland butterfly blade with a little float when going over rocks, main reefs, and even in con khara beds. He suggests using a 2-ounce bottom bouncer and trolling at a speed of 1.2 to 1.4 miles per hour. Night crawlers have been the bait of choice, and Bros Dahl prefers using long shank hooks. He also mentions that jigs, particularly the long shank fireball jigs, have been working well. For those targeting bluegill and crappie, Bros Dahl advises fishing off the weed beds on the deep weed line. Slip bobbers and Firefly jigs are recommended for this.
Walleye Fishing in Lake Vermilion
Moving up to Lake Vermilion, Billy Rosner reports that walleye fishing has been productive, with some days better than others due to weather fronts. Rosner suggests targeting mud transitions and notes that the walleye may be shallower than expected. Slip bobbers are recommended for fishing in these areas. Rosner also suggests being versatile and trying different species, such as northern pike, on deeper weed lines. He recommends using blue fox and light sprinter baits for pike, as well as big plastics like the 5.5-inch storm swim baits for muskie. Rosner also mentions that videos from England balls provide great tips on fly fishing for pike.
Cool Fishing Products
Now let’s take a look at some cool fishing products that can make your fishing experience easier and more enjoyable. Here are a few recommendations:
- Gary Yamamoto Yama Senko: This stick bait is a classic and is tough to beat, especially when bass fishing. Pair it with the right jigs for best results.
- ARSY Jigs: These jigs come in a variety of cool colors and have UV options. They are great for fishing in and around cover like weeds or wood.
- Z-Man Finesse TRD: This bait is made of durable and buoyant ElaZtech plastic. It’s designed to fall slowly and is great for finicky fish like walleye and bass.
- Storm 360 GT Search Bait: This swim bait is extremely easy to use. Just cast it out and swim it back to the boat. It’s effective for walleye, bass, pike, and more.
- Berkley Choppo: This topwater bait is easy to fish. Just cast it out and reel it back on a steady retrieve. The plopping tail attracts fish and triggers strikes.
- Daiwa Regal LT Reel: This reel is light and tough, making it a great option for anglers. It has a smooth drag, deep spool, and a nine ball bearing system.
- Suffix 832 Advanced Superline: This braided line has no stretch and high visibility. It’s great for detecting soft bites and has a high vis yellow color for easy visibility.
- Shakespeare Panfish Combo: This combo is perfect for getting kids into fishing. It includes a spin casting reel, a panfish rod, and a tackle box full of panfish goodies.
