February 28, 2025 "Big Stone Lake Perch Population"

As a member of the MN DNR Panfish Workgroup, perch populations in Minnesota lakes are of special interest to me. That's why this article, published yesterday (February 27, 2025) by Artie's Bait & Tackle in Ortonville Minnesota caught my attention. Today, I'm offering their comments in original, unedited form, and I'm also forwarding the story to the folks on the Panfish Workgroup. I'll be sure to follow this story and post updates as they become available.

Original Story 2-27-25 • Artie's Bait & Tackle "So...where did the perch go?

This is a discussion I have had all winter with our local fisheries biologists. This winter was different then past winters with the walleyes running deep and the perch not biting and not seeing many and the lack of snow cover on the ice. Earlier this winter, it was possible that oxygen levels were getting too high which causes supersaturation. On Big Stone Lake, lack of snow, shallow water and growing vegetation combined can create oxygen levels that are too high for fish comfort...snow cover drops the oxygen levels. If oxygen levels get too high, there can be a fish die off or stress on the fish (the blood vessels can explode) like what happened on Traverse a few years ago. However, the oxygen numbers were not quite that high and did come down some in recent weeks. It seemed the perch were maybe more affected than the other fish.

So, what else could it be? Honestly, not sure...even the small perch were not biting and in past years there was always a ton of throwbacks.
We will continue to communicate with the local fisheries and try to figure out why the perch bite was off this winter. It will be interesting to see what happens during open water seasons.

How are the perch numbers? The DNR had 162 perch per net last fall...solid numbers for Big Stone.

Coming off record numbers of 300 per net which actually stunted some growth, 162 is a better number for the fishery and there was a noticeable increase in size when the numbers came back down. Last fall, most days, anglers could catch 100+ perch a day. Numbers were not an issue and fishing pressure would not take 100 fish days down to zero in the matter of 3 months.

The DNR says, "Yellow perch catch rates have ranged from 10-316 fish per gill net (Figure 4), with a mean of 140. The mean catch for lakes similar to Big Stone (e.g. Traverse, Hendricks, Big Kandiyohi, Lac qui Parle) is nine perch per net, hence Big Stone Lake has been an exceptional perch lake for many years. The highest catch that has been observed occurred in 2021, with 316 yellow perch per gill net. Any catch rate over 100perch per net is likely to produce good fishing."

Now it seems like the common thing to do when fishing is off is to start blaming guides, DNR, dock fishermen, tournaments ect. Bash, bash, bash. Most people that make the comments have not taken the time to learn the biology of the lake, talk to fisheries and understand how reproduction, water levels, vegetation and food source/supply, and weather are the driving factors in fish population and behavior.

According to DNR numbers, the perch on Big Stone Lake went from 262 per net in 1996 down to 10 per net in 2006. The funny thing is, there was no guiding and no internet in those days, so who did we blame then? If you look all fish species over decades, you will see that lakes go through cycles.

As most of you know, we do not allow negativity and bashing on our page. Most of it is baseless and just causes issues and misunderstandings and we are committed to being a positive media for fishermen. Some will comment or bash the lake because they do not want others to fish "their" lake. Some blame others because they didn't catch fish.

ALL of our lakes are natural resources for everyone to enjoy. We will continue to promote fishing and love to see the smiles on kids and families enjoying the fishing on Big Stone Lake.

Our country has enough negativity, we are not going to allow it on our pages.

Some will say "Artie's is all about the money and promoting the lake". You are exactly right! Just like any other business, we serve our customers with the best service and help we can in hopes of making money for our family and employees while we do it, the same as any other business would do. We love the business we are in and will continue to help everyone enjoy the outdoors.

I am sorry there is some negativity to my post here, but it was time to address some of this. Lets get back to helping one another enjoy the outdoors and stop the negativity and the attempts to hoard the natural resource for ourselves.
Feel free to share your comments, but keep it positive." Artie's Bait & Tackle, 748 2nd St SE, Ortonville, MN (320) 839-2480

EDITOR"S NOTE: Because I have no firsthand experience fishing on Big Stone Lake, I can't really comment on the Artie's story. Judging by the tone of the article though, the discussion about declining perch fishing on Big Stone Lake appears to be ongoing, and possibly heated. As an observer, I'm curious about opinions of the story from other viewpoints. Do you have firsthand experience fishing for perch on Big Stone Lake? I'd love to hear your thoughts about the fishery, drop us a line. — Office Call or Text 218-245-9858 or EMAIL on Facebook on X

February 27, 2025 "Open Walleye Fishing On Border Waters"

"Inland lakes in Minnesota have been closed for walleye fishing since February 23, 2025. However, the walleye fishing season doesn’t have to be over if you’re willing to explore some of the boundary waters. Lake of the Woods is the obvious choice for many, but most folks haven’t realized how many other places to fish for walleyes during late winter and early spring.

This past Wednesday, I promised to provide a comprehensive list of Border Waters where walleye fishing remains open after the inland season closes.

Below, you’ll find that list, along with links to where you can find details in the MN DNR Regulations book. At the time of this report, the 2024-2025 remains current “official” regulation booklet.

The new booklet for 2025-2026 regulations take effect soon, and I’ll be sure to update the links to the new online regulation booklet when it becomes available.

• Canada: Lake List (photo upper left), and floow this link to the Canada-Minnesota Fishing Regulations Insert.
• Iowa: Little Spirit Lake, Iowa Lake, Okamanpeedan (Tuttle), Iowa, and Swag Lakes
• North Dakota: Bois de Sioux River and Red River of the North
• South Dakota: Big Stone Lake, Hendricks Lake, Lake Traverse, MUD Lake, Bois de Sioux River (north to North Dakota border), Mustinka River (from the mouth to the MN State HWY 117 bridge.)
• Wisconsin: Mississippi River border water portion of pool 3, and pools 4 through 8, including Lake Pepin. Mississippi River (border waters downstream of lock and dam #8).

While the walleye fishing seasons remain open for these listed border waters, fish limits and fishing methods vary between them. Be sure to familiarize yourself with specific fishing regulations that apply to each lake or river you choose to fish. As always, your fishing updates, questions and photos are encouraged, be sure to let us know how you do on your next trip!" — Jeff Sundin, The Early Bird Fishing Guide Office Cell Call or Text 218-245-9858 or Email on Facebook on X

Ely Area, Arrowhead Outdoors Fishing Report February 27, 2025

"Lake Trout fishing has gotten to be a little hit and miss and warm temps settle into our area. Anglers on the trout are reporting that they are seeing good numbers of trout with a handful of hook ups. Increasingly spoons and blade baits are accounting for the majority of trout caught. Key depths are on the shallow side 20 to 40 feet of water. Humps have been producing good numbers of trout.

Stream Trout - Spake and rainbows were popular catches this last week. Splake have been a little more structure related than rainbows and are being found near points and flats in 20 to 40 feet of water. Rainbow trout on the other hand have not been very structure related. Rainbows are being found in 40 to 60 feet of water over deep mud flats. Anglers have been doing better with Splake with a dead minnow or minnow head on a small jigging spoon. Rainbows have been hitting waxies tipped on a small jigging or jigging spoon.

Eelpout are really starting to become a common catch for anglers looking for lakers. Dead bait laying on the bottom, on humps or near shallow flats, has been effective on eelpout. Anglers targeting eelpout have now been able to catch them all day, but generally do best during the low light periods and after dark. Bright glowing, heavy spoons and glowing tubes, both loaded with dead smelt of minnow chunks has been very effective on eelpout.

Panfish - Panfishing was on the slow side last weekend. Two or three days of warm temps generally doesn't move the activity needle for panfish. With a week of warm temps panfish will start responding. Anglers have been finding crappies and gills in 20 to 30 feet of water. Gills have been relating more to the bottom and hitting small jigs tipped with wax worms. Active crappies have been suspended off the bottom and have been more inclined to hit soft plastics and crappie minnows also suspended in the water column. Pink, purple and white colored jigs have been effective on crappies. " — Arrowhead Outdoors, 218-365-5358

Wired2Fish February 27, 2025 "Dustin Connell’s Clear Water Finesse Swimbait Tips"

"Dustin Connell breaks down the effectiveness of using a finesse swimbait in clear water conditions, particularly around current and suspended bass. When bass are in a pre-spawn feeding mode, the right bait presentation can make all the difference.

WHY FINESSE FISHING SWIMBAITS CATCH MORE BASS IN CLEAR WATER

Bass in clear water environments are often more finicky and rely heavily on sight to locate prey. A small finesse swimbait, like a 2.5-inch paddle tail, creates a natural and subtle movement that mimics a dying baitfish. The key is maintaining a natural fall rate and letting the bait shimmer as it sinks. Connell emphasizes that bass in strong current ..." View Video and Learn More >> Dustin Connell’s Clear Water Finesse Swimbait Tips

February 26, 2025 "Fishing Seasons and Licenses"

Walleye and northern pike fishing seasons on most inland waters ended on February 23, 2025. The Hippie Chick and I have already spied lots of anglers towing their wheelhouses home. Most of the southbound traffic, presumably consisted of folks who had their shelters on Upper Red Lake and removed them after the weekend. Smaller lakes, primarily popular perch and panfish waters, including Lake Bemidji, Winnie, Cass Lake, and others, still have robust populations of ice fishing shelters on them.

As you likely already know, border waters, like Lake of the Woods, Rainy Lake and others, remain open for walleye and sauger fishing until April 14, 2025. For walleye fishing enthusiasts, I’ll put up a comprehensive list of places where walleye fishing remains open past the inland closing date. Watch for that update on Thursday morning.

No matter where you plan to ice fish in Minnesota this weekend, you will need a new fishing license. As usual, I’ve already logged on to the MN DNR website and purchased ours, and I’d encourage you to do the same. Buying your license online offers some advantages like saving and printing “backup” copies and adding a digital copy to your phone, which is allowed under Minnesota law. Avoid standing in line at the sporting goods store by following this link to BUY MINNESOTA FISHING LICENSE online. Make sure you have your driver license on hand, and your spouse’s too, if you plan to buy the combination licenses.

As we roll into spring, the annual fisheries meetings and input seasons get underway. Below, you’ll see a news release about 151 Minnesota lakes that have pending regulation changes. Coming soon, I’ll be attending both the 2025 MN DNR Fisheries Summit, and the MN-FISH 1st annual fishing summit in Grand Rapids. Expect to find frequent updates as meeting agendas are released, and meetings take place. — Jeff Sundin, The Early Bird Fishing Guide Office Cell Call or Text 218-245-9858 or Email on Facebook on X

News Release February 2025 "Public Input Needed | Fisheries Management Plans For 151 Minnesota Lakes"

March is the month to connect with Minnesota Department of Natural Resources fisheries offices across Minnesota about 151 lakes in 40 counties that will have their fisheries lake management plans updated in 2025.

“People interested in the health and quality of Minnesota’s fisheries are a critical part of the DNR’s fisheries lake management planning process,” said Shannon Fisher, DNR fisheries populations and regulations manager. “These plans establish fisheries management goals and objectives for each lake and define the work fisheries biologists do each year. Observations and input from a lake’s stakeholders are essential to the planning effort.”

The list of lakes scheduled for plan updates in 2025 is on the Minnesota DNR website. Fisheries management plans for Minnesota’s 10 largest lakes follow a similar but separate update process.

The DNR encourages people with thoughts on the future management of a lake scheduled for a 2025 plan update to call or email the area fisheries office listed for that lake before March 31. Area fisheries teams will consider the observations and comments obtained during this step of the process as they begin developing updates for each lake fisheries management plan.

“We want to hear from anyone interested in these fisheries,” Fisher said. “Comments about experiences, observations, concerns and wishes for the fishery — rather than suggestions on how the DNR might accomplish a specific goal or objective — are the most helpful kinds of input.”

When considering commenting about Minnesota DNR Fisheries Management Plans, people might ask themselves:

• “What kind of fishing experience am I looking for?”
• “Are there fish habitat concerns I’d like to share?”
• “What kinds of fish do I like to catch?”
• “Do I like catching big fish or a lot of fish?”
• “Do I have concerns about the fishery’s draw or popularity among anglers or other social concerns?”
  

The DNR’s interest in comments includes those from organizations as well as individuals. Representatives of lake associations, outdoors groups, conservations organizations and local units of government are also encouraged to comment during the comment period. Based on initial comments received, management approaches under consideration, and other considerations, area fisheries managers might determine additional public engagement is necessary later in summer or fall before completing their update to a particular plan. The DNR will publicize those opportunities for additional engagement regionally and posted them on the DNR lake management page.

These lakes, listed by county, are scheduled for lake management plan updates in 2025:

• Aitkin: Lone, Sugar, Hay
• Anoka: Crooked
• Becker: Detroit, Island, Little Sugar Bush, Little Toad, Many Point, White Earth
• Beltrami: Balm, Clearwater, Julia, Sandy
• Big Stone: Big Stone
• Blue Earth: Duck
• Carlton: Moosehorn River
• Cass: Baby, Hay, Inguadona, Little Bass, Sugar, Morrison, Pillager
• Clearwater: Johnson, Lomond, Pine
• Cook: Pike, South, Two Island, Tom, North Shady
• Crow Wing: Adney, Black Bear, Kego, Partridge, Turtle, Twin
• Douglas: Andrew
• Hennepin: Dutch, Cornelia, Champlin Mill
• Hubbard: Kabekona, Lower Bottle, Upper Bottle
• Isanti: South Stanchfield
• Itasca: Erskine, Island, Little Split Hand, Long, Lower Panasa, McKinney, Pokegama, Pughole, Round, Siseebakwer, Thistledew
• Kandiyohi: Andrew, Florida, Games, Norway
• Koochiching: Battle, Dark, Seretha, Silversack, Teufer
• Lac Qui Parle: Lac Qui Parle
• Lake: Beaver Hut, Cross River, Ensign, Farm, Garden, Grass, Middle McDougal, North McDougal, Section 29, South Farm, Stewart
• LeSueur: Emily
• Lincoln: Shaokotan
• Lyon: Clear
• Martin: Clear
• Meeker: Dunns, Hoff, Richardson
• Morrison: Alexander, Shamineau
• Nobles: Kinbrae
• Otter Tail: Clitherall, Dead, North Lida, Otter Tail, Pelican, South Lida, South Ten Mile, Star, West Battle
• Pine: Sand, Tamarack, Upper Pine
• Pope: Minnewaska
• Ramsey: Turtle
• Rice: Cannon, Circle, Fox, French, Hunt, Kelly, Dudley, Roberds
• Scott: Lower Prior, Upper Prior
• St. Louis: Angus, Arthur, Bassett, Bear Head, Brown, Deep, Echo, Elephant, Ely, Embarrass Pit, Everett, Fat, Gun, Hanson (Burntside), Janette, Kinney Mine, Miners Pit, Mott Pit, Mudro, Pike River Flowage, Ryan, Sand, Slim, White Iron, Whiteface Reservoir, Whitewater, Winchester
• Stearns: Koronis, Rice
• Steele: Beaver
• Swift: Camp, Monson
• Todd: Charlotte
• Washington: Lily
• Wright: Granite, Little Waverly
  

For additional information about why and how the DNR develops and utilizes fisheries management plans for Minnesota’s 4,500 actively managed lakes, visit the MN DNR Lake Management Planning Page.

Lake of the Woods, LOW Tourism February 25, 2025

"Along the south shore of Lake of the Woods, Big Traverse Bay continues to deliver strong ice fishing results. Resorts and outfitters are still in full swing as ice conditions continue to build, making this one of the best late-season ice years in recent memory. If you’re fishing on your own, bring an auger extension, as ice thickness is significant. Some ice roads are now extending over 20 miles out, keeping anglers on productive schools of walleyes and saugers. All of the rental operators, resorts and outfitters are still offering both day houses and sleeper fishing shelters.

The bite in February has been excellent, with lots of fish being caught and plenty of opportunities for fresh fish fries. Most fish houses are positioned over deep mud, while some remain on or near structure. As always, expect to sort through some smaller fish, but that’s a good sign of a healthy fishery.

Current Fishing Depths & Patterns: Most fish are being caught in 26 to 32 feet of water. Plenty of walleye and sauger limits are being caught, with many anglers taking home bonus perch this season. Besides the target species, eelpout, pike, tullibees, and even some crappies are also showing up in the mix. Suspended walleyes are showing up, so watch your electronics closely.

Best Techniques: Jigging spoons with rattles tipped with a minnow head continue to be the top producer. Lipless crankbaits and jigging rap-style lures are also working well for aggressive fish. Lures with built-in lights have been very effective in the stained water (Reminder: In Minnesota, lighted lures are legal as long as the battery is mercury-free and the hook is attached directly to the lure, not on a dropper line).

Deadstick: A plain hook or small jig with a live minnow, set 6 inches to a foot off the bottom, continues to catch neutral or less aggressive fish.

Time of Day: Bite windows vary daily. Some days, mornings are best; other days, the afternoon bite turns on. Walleyes can move through at any time, so staying patient and watching electronics is key.

With fish houses allowed on the ice through March 31, 2025 and walleye and sauger seasons open through April 14, 2025, the extended season on Lake of the Woods offers plenty of time to plan your trip. Pike fishing never closes, and with the thick ice conditions, this year is shaping up to be fantastic for targeting trophy pike.

March is prime time for big northern pike, as these aggressive predators begin staging for the upcoming spawn. Lake of the Woods is loaded with pike over 40 inches, and tip-up fishing can be lights out this time of year. Anglers targeting pike should set baits under tip-ups in shallow water (6 to 15 feet) near pre-spawn areas, weedy areas, river mouths, or back bays.

On the Rainy River, mornings and evenings continue to be the best times for targeting walleyes. A jig and minnow or jigging spoon tipped with a minnow head remains the go-to presentation.

Sturgeon fishing has been solid, with some giants being iced (Reminder: The current sturgeon season is catch-and-release). Safety Note: Ice conditions on the Rainy River are good, but they can change rapidly due to current. Always check with resorts or outfitters before heading out.

Up at the NW Angle... Ice fishing remains excellent throughout the islands region of Lake of the Woods. Resorts are moving fish houses regularly, keeping guests on active schools of walleyes. Anglers are catching a nice mix of walleyes, saugers, jumbo perch, pike, and tullibees. Big crappies continue to be caught just over the border in Canada. If you're interested in targeting crappies, check with a NW Angle resort for guide services and ice conditions." — Lake of the Woods Tourism, (800) 382-FISH

Wired2Fish February 17, 2025 "3 Lipless Crankbait Retrieves That Catch More Fish"

"A lipless crankbait is one of the most versatile baits in the angler’s tackle box. It can be fished in mere inches of water out to about 20 feet. You can fish it out in the open, around isolated cover like stumps, rocks, and docks and even through submerged cover like hydrilla, milfoil, and coontail. And you can catch fish on a lipless crank in the winter, spring, summer, and fall — though spring and fall are best. But the versatility of a lipless can actually make it a little challenging to dial in. There are a lot more choices to make and variables to consider than there are when using something like a Carolina rig that you just lob out and drag back. So, we’re here to help with some of that as we explore three lipless crankbait retrieves that catch more fish.

Basic Lipless Crankbait Retrieve: We’re going to use the unique retrieves of each of the three techniques we’re going to look at to differentiate them. With a basic retrieve, you simply ..." Read Article and Learn More >> 3 Lipless Crankbait Retrieves That Catch More Fish

News Release February 25, 2025 "Minnesota DNR adds angling limits for several species"

"Anglers will find these and other changes in the 2025 fishing regulations booklet.

Minnesota will have newly established limits for several species when the new fishing license year begins on March 1, 2025.

The Minnesota Fishing Regulations for 2025 will include daily and possession limits for American eel, yellow bass, whitefish, cisco, and burbot. Those and other changes are available starting on page 13 of the regulations book.

“We remind anglers to check the regulations book for ..." Read Full Story >> Minnesota DNR adds angling limits for several species

February 24, 2025 "Ice Fishing Late Winter Season"

Before we head into the new week, I want to thank everybody at F-M Walleyes Unlimited, Inc. for inviting me to speak at their annual meeting last Thursday. The folks there were warm and gracious in every possible way. They were especially welcoming of the topic of my talk, “Better Angling Through Inward Facing Technology”.

My presentation isn’t your basic how-to-catch-‘em seminar, where speakers pontificate about using various technologies, hopefully to find and catch more fish. Instead, I explore our deeper, primordial connection to both fish and fishing, looking into our innate instincts and how they influence a typical day on the water. Though I’ve never featured the topic in any presentation, it is not new. Frequent visitors to my fishing reports and media have seen references to things like ‘the Rainbow Fish Mediation”, “the Snyder Effect” and other similarly mysterious terms.

The idea developed over time, as my wife and I compared notes about various influences on my daily fishing trips with customers. Over time, I’ve realized that there are certain people who always seem to win, while others struggle. No matter what we call it, the connections between us and nature, the ones we seldom think about, are what separates the winners from the strugglers. If you’d like to learn more about the topic, I am available to bring the presentation to an event for you. Use the contact information below for more information.

Walleye and northern pike fishing seasons on most inland waters ended on February 23, 2025. Yesterday, driving home between Bemidji and Grand Rapids, the Hippie Chick and I already spied lots of anglers towing their wheelhouses home. Most of the southbound traffic, presumably consisted of folks who had their shelters on Upper Red Lake and removed them yesterday. Smaller perch and panfish waters, including Lake Bemidji, Cass Lake, and others, still have robust populations of ice fishing shelters on them. As you likely know, many of the state's border waters, like Lake of the Woods, Rainy Lake and others, remain for walleye and sauger until April 14, 2025.

As the weather warms, pan fishing action, especially for perch should be improving steadily. For me, that's great news because early this winter, as I recovered from a minor surgery, I missed out on all of the early and mid-season ice fishing this year. Now that I'm free from lifting restrictions, I can hit the ice and try to catch up with the rest of my friends who have been fishing all winter long.

Realizing that I've been short on firsthand fishing reports, I spent time sifting through the fishing archives that will be helpful for folks fishing in the late winter and early spring periods. Yesterday, I posted an article that explores perch movements brought about by declining oxygen levels. If you haven’t already, follow the link to the article "Aim For The O2" for more information.

Today, I want to remind you about another very effective late winter perch fishing pattern, the relationship between perch and bloodworms. Sundin, "Insect larvae and invertebrates use soft bottom areas as a feeding ground. There are many microscopic critters that make up this portion of the food chain, but among the easiest for anglers to identify are Bloodworms. Bloodworms, the larval form of the Midge, which hatch during the open water season, are now in their larval phase of development. At this stage, they are very attractive to gamefish and Yellow Perch have a particular sweet tooth for them. The best way to find area loaded with bloodworms is to ..." Read >> Finding Perch and Panfish By Locating Bloodworms

Helping your fellow fishermen and women stay abreast of fishing conditions in your area is good for everybody and it's easier than you think! You don't have to write a book, you don't have to share your secret fishing spots and you don't even have to mention your lake. But even a few words about general trends, seasonal patterns and local weather conditions can really help.

If you've been waiting for a gold engraved invitation to participate in the daily reports, then stop waiting and consider this your own personal invitation. — Jeff Sundin, The Early Bird Fishing Guide Office Cell Call or Text 218-245-9858 or Email on Facebook on X

"Aim for the O2 - Move regularly, change offerings often: you’ll crack midwinter’s code By Mitch Eeagan (February 2016)"

"Imagine your home growing darker by the day, to the point you haven’t seen sunlight in over a month. Moreover, your surroundings are growing colder by the day. In fact, it’s so frigid that your muscles have become rigid; to the point it’s all you can do to muster moving a few feet…even to eat. And you’re hungry.

Oxygen is diminishing, too. Some areas are completely void of oxygen, while other pockets have just enough to sustain life. So you migrate to where respiration is still an option.

To say life’s registering a zero on the fun-o-meter is an understatement. And with that lowly scenario in place, you now know what it’s like to be a fish living in the Ice Belt during the dead of winter. It’s been a long time since light penetrated the surface and ... Read and Learn More >> Aim for the O2 - Move regularly, change offerings often: you’ll crack midwinter’s code

Ely Area, Arrowhead Outdoors Fishing Report February 20, 2025

"Lake Trout - Lake trout fishing continues to be good for many anglers as cold temps remain. Several large lakers were caught this last weekend in 30 to 50 feet of water. Blade baits, bucktails and tubes all produced trout. Tip ups tipped with a dead smelt or small minnow also was effective on lake trout this last weekend.

Stream Trout - Splake continued to be a popular catch for many anglers this last week. Anglers have been finding them between 20 to 40 feet of water. Small tubes, soft plastics and dead minnows, tipped on a small jig or jigging spoon have been very effective on Splake.

Rainbow trout have also been a popular catch for anglers this last week. Rainbows have been running a little deeper in 40 to 60 feet of water. Small bug flies, tipped with a wax worm or dipped in scent, have been very effective at getting rainbows to bite.

Walleye - Walleye fishing continues to be slow but steady which is normal for mid February. Less active minnows like chubs, deadsticked on a rattle reel, continue to be the most popular and effective way to catch walleyes. 12 to 18 feet of water continues to be where the majority of walleyes are being caught.

Eelpout - Eelpout continue to show up in anglers' catches, day and night. Anglers fishing for lake trout have been finding eelpout out on humps that top out in 15 to 30 feet of water, surrounded by deep water. Walleye anglers have also been catching eelpout in shallower water and near river mouths in 10 to 20 feet of water. For both locations, heavy bright glowing jigs loaded with smelt chunks and pounded on the bottom has been very effective." — Arrowhead Outdoors, 218-365-5358

Lake of the Woods, LOW Tourism February 18, 2025

"Ice fishing remains strong across Big Traverse Bay, along the south shore of Lake of the Woods. Most resorts and outfitters are reporting great action on both walleyes and saugers. Ice thicknesses continue to build, making this one of the best ice travel seasons in recent years. If you're fishing on your own, be sure to bring an extension for your ice auger, as ice thickness is significant.

Some of the plowed ice roads are now extending over 19 miles out, which is necessary for staying on productive schools of walleyes and saugers. Most fish houses are positioned over deep mud, while some remain on or near structure. As always, it's fishing, but February has been highly productive for most anglers. It's Lake of the Woods, be prepared to catch some small fish along the way. This also shows the health of the fishery.

The extended ice fishing season length on Lake of the Woods means there are still plenty of opportunities. Ice fishing houses are allowed on the ice through March 31, 2025 and both walleye and sauger fishing seasons remain open through April 14, 2025. Northern pike fishing never closes, and with thick ice, conditions are shaping up well for good late-season action.

Current Fishing Depths & Patterns: Most fish are being caught in 26 to 32 feet of water. Anglers are catching walleyes, saugers, jumbo perch, eelpout with some pike, tullibees, and crappies mixed in. Watch electronics for suspended walleyes. Many are reporting plenty of fish for fresh fish fries with extra to bring home.

Best Techniques: The one-two punch of using one jigging line, along with a deadsticking line continues to be the go-to strategy. Jigging spoons with rattles tipped with a minnow head are producing consistent bites on the jigging rods. Lipless crankbaits and jigging rap-style lures are also working well. Lures with a built-in light have been effective in the stained water. Reminder: In Minnesota, lighted lures are legal, provided that any battery is mercury-free and the hook is attached directly to the lure (not on a dropper line).

On your dead sticking rod, use a plain hook or small jig with a live minnow, set 6 inches to a foot off the bottom, is catching many of the neutral or less aggressive fish.

Bite windows vary daily. Some days, mornings are best, while other days, afternoons produce better. Walleyes can move through at any time, so staying patient and paying attention to electronics is key.

On the Rainy River, mornings and evenings continue to be the most productive times for walleyes. A jig and minnow or jigging spoon tipped with a minnow head has been the most effective presentation.

Sturgeon fishing has been good by anglers targeting them. (Reminder: The current sturgeon season is catch-and-release.) Safety Note: While ice conditions on the Rainy River are good, they can vary significantly due to the current. Always check with resorts or outfitters before heading out.

Up at the Northwest Angle, ice fishing remains excellent in the islands region of Lake of the Woods. Resorts continue to move fish houses, keeping guests on active schools of walleyes. Anglers are catching a solid mix of walleyes, saugers, jumbo perch, pike, and tullibees.
Big crappies are being caught just over the border in Canada. If you're interested in targeting crappies, check with a NW Angle resort for guide services and ice conditions." — Lake of the Woods Tourism, (800) 382-FISH

February 17, 2025 "Appearance F-M Walleyes Unlimited Thursday February 20, 2025"

I’m excited to let you know about my upcoming appearance at the annual meeting of the Fargo Moorhead Walleye Club event this Thursday, February 20, 2025.

The F-M Walleyes Unlimited, Inc., was inducted into the Minnesota Fishing Hall of Fame in 2023, North Dakota Fishing Hall of Fame in 2015 and the US National Fishing Hall of Fame way back in 2011. Over the years, I’ve known about the club, been familiar with some of their members and have had many friends go over and speak at their events. For me though, this Thursday will be my first ever speaking engagement at the F-M Walleyes Inc., in fact my first ever visit to one of their club events.

The F-M Walleyes Unlimited website offers this announcement. “Annual Meeting and Chili Feed, featuring Jeff Sundin. We are pleased to host MN Hall of Fame Guide Jeff Sundin!
For over 40 years, Jeff has guided thousands of multi-species anglers earning the title of Minnesota's Best Fishing Guide. Jeff’s seminar titled, “Better Angling through Inward Facing Technology,” will make us all better anglers with the tools we already possess.
Just like all our meetings, the February member meeting will be free and open to the public. Board member positions to be voted upon (see below for more information). 2025 Membership Cards will be available at the meeting!”

Recently, I got together with Scott Brewer and Kyle Agre on their "Gone Outdoors" podcast and offered more information about my talk. In a nutshell, we'll be looking at our instinctive connection to fish, water and environment. I'll offer my personal guidance about how I've learned to be a better angler by tapping into the instincts bred into us from the beginning of time. You can hear more about the upcoming event by following this link to the Brewer, Agre podcast >> "Hall of Fame Fishing Guide Jeff Sundin Previews FM Walleyes Unlimited Appearance".

I hope to see you this Thursday, February 20th at 6:00 PM, Ramada Inn, 3333 13th Ave, Fargo ND for the Fargo Moorhead Walleyes Inc. Annual Meeting. — Jeff Sundin, The Early Bird Fishing Guide Office Cell Call or Text 218-245-9858 or Email on Facebook on X

Wired2Fish February 17, 2025 "The Truth Behind the 41 Pound Bag on Sam Rayburn"

"On Feb. 8, Riley Harris and Luke Potter put together a day on Sam Rayburn Reservoir that their great-grandchildren will likely be talking about someday. Teaming up to try their hand against more than 150 other boats in the first event of the 2025 Texas Team Trail, Harris and Potter boated a five-fish limit worth 41 pounds, 9 ounces. Their haul was a full 16 pounds-and-change heavier than the second place team, with 25 pounds, 4 ounces.

On Feb. 8, Riley Harris and Luke Potter put together a day on Sam Rayburn Reservoir that their great-grandchildren will likely be talking about someday. Teaming up to try their hand against more than 150 other boats in the first event of the 2025 Texas Team Trail, Harris and Potter boated a five-fish limit worth 41 pounds, 9 ounces. Their haul was a full 16 pounds-and-change heavier than the ..." Read Article and Learn More >> The Truth Behind the 41 Pound Bag on Sam Rayburn

Ely Area, Arrowhead Outdoors Fishing Report February 13, 2025

"Lake Trout - Lake Trout fishing has remained on the good side as cold temps settle into the area. Many anglers reported seeing good numbers of lakers this last weekend and many anglers came home with trout. Lakers were being seen in a little bit shallower than normal. 20 to 40 feet of water. Blade baits, spoons, bucktails and tubes all accounted for trout. If lakers didn't hit any of those baits, small to medium size shiners often sealed the deal.

Stream Trout - Splake were a popular catch this last weekend for many anglers looking for stream trout. Splake were often found on flats in water depths of 15 to 30 feet of water. Bucktails, blade baits and small jigging spoons tipped with a wax worm or dead minnow. Anglers also caught rainbow trout, often while targeting Splake. Smaller jigging spoons tipped with wax worms was the best way to catch them.

Walleye - Walleye fishing continues to improve for many anglers spending nights out on the lake. Deadsticking chubs with bright glowing glow demons have been the most effective way to catch walleye during the overnight hours. Depths continue to be shallow in 12 to 16 feet of water.

Eelpout - Anglers continue to see more and more eelpout show up in their overnight catches. While many are catching them in the sleeper houses placed in 12 to 16 feet of water, deep locations out around humps in 20 to 40 feet of water have been more consistent for catching. Bright glowing spoons loaded with smelt chunks or minnow chunks are popular, but bright glowing tubes are also very effective on eelpout." — Arrowhead Outdoors, 218-365-5358

Lake of the Woods, LOW Tourism February 12, 2025

"Ice fishing remains strong on Big Traverse Bay, spanning across the south shore of Lake of the Woods. Resorts and outfitters are staying on top of nice schools of walleyes and saugers with ice roads extending up to 16 miles out. Many of the fishing shelters are positioned over deep water and mud bottoms and most fishing activity is taking place in 26 to 32 feet of water. Some of the rental shelters, depending on resort's specific operating areas are on structure like deep points or reefs.

Extensions are being used on ice augers as the ice continues to thicken. The thick ice this year will be good for the extended ice fishing season Lake of the Woods enjoys with fish houses allowed on the ice through March 31, 2025. The open season for walleye and sauger remains open through April 14, 2025 and the northern pike season never closes.

Overall, February has been very productive for most anglers, but it is mid-February, and there are periods of slower action mixed in. Anglers are finding a healthy mix of walleyes and saugers, with a good number of jumbo perch in the mix this year. Some big eelpout are also showing up. Anglers are reporting plenty of fish for fresh fish frys and usually extra fish to bring home. Some days, mornings are better, other days, it's the afternoons. There is no distinct pattern, they could come through at any time.

The one-two punch of a jigging line and deadstick is the way to go. On the jigging line, jigging spoons with rattles tipped with a minnow head have been consistent. Lipless crankbaits and jigging rap style lures also doing well. Lures with a light have been working well in the stained water. Please remember, in MN, lures with a light or water activated light can be used as long as the battery is mercury free and the hook is attached directly to the lure and not as a dropper line. On the deadstick, a plain hook or a small jig with a live minnow 6 inches to a foot off of the bottom.

On the Rainy River, the start of the day and end of the day have been best for those targeting walleyes on the river. A jig and minnow or a jigging spoon tipped with a minnow head is also producing some fish. Some big sturgeon being iced by ice anglers targeting them. It is a catch-and-release sturgeon season currently.

Although ice conditions on the river are good, they can vary significantly due to the current, so anglers should always consult local resorts or outfitters for the most up-to-date safety information and fishing advice.

Up at the Northwest Angle, ice fishing has been strong in the islands area of Lake of the Woods. Resorts continue to move their fish houses around, staying on the best schools of walleyes. Anglers are catching a nice mix of walleyes, saugers, and jumbo perch with an occasional pike or tullibee as well. Big crappies are still being caught just over the border. Fish houses are available, check with a Northwest Angle resort for info on crappie fishing.

Lake of the Woods enjoys an extended ice fishing season with fish houses on the ice through March 31, 2025 and walleye and sauger seasons open through April 14, 2025. Perch, crappie, and pike seasons remain open year-round." — Lake of the Woods Tourism, (800) 382-FISH

Wired2Fish February 12, 2025 "Pro Fishing Legends: Where Are They Now?"

"Do you ever wonder what some of the legends of the pro bass fishing game are doing now that they’ve retired? They follow the same retirement plan that many retirees do. They go fishing.
Wired2Fish tracked down seven of the all-time greats of the game and we found out what they are up to.

Roland Martin, one of bass fishing’s pioneers, just can’t quit. At age 84, he still guides on Florida’s Headwaters Lake and Lake Okeechobee for the hefty sum of $1,500 per day. And he’s still in demand. “People want to catch that bass of a lifetime, and I can help them with that,” said Martin, who still lives in ..." Read Article and Learn More >> Pro Fishing Legends: Where Are They Now?

News Release February 11, 2025 "Minnesota DNR Fisheries Rulemaking | Proposed Fishing Gear Rules"

"The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is asking for the public to comment on proposed rules about fishing methods that, if adopted, would go into effect in March 2026.

The rules propose increasing the maximum allowed distance between hooks in tackle configurations with multiple hooks from 9 to 18 inches. The rulemaking also allows for the use of certain automatic hook-setting devices for ice fishing that currently are not allowed and includes clarification of the definition of “hook.”

These changes would allow anglers to use a wider range of commercially available products and be more practical for bait commonly used. The changes are anticipated to reduce the number of swallowed hooks and deep hook sets, thereby decreasing hooking mortality without posing a threat to conservation.

Comments can be submitted through Thursday, March 20, 2025 by email to bethany.bethke@state.mn.us opens in a new browser tab or mail to Bethany Bethke, Fisheries Rules and Regulations Coordinator, Fish and Wildlife Division, Minnesota DNR, 500 Lafayette Road, St. Paul, MN 55155."

Editors Note: The image upper left, courtesy In-Fisherman, links to an October 2017 article about automatic hook setting devices for ice fishing. The specific products depicted may, or may not be under consideration in the rule change process. For more details aboiut specific lures, and fishing gear under consideration follow this link. >> More Information, including the proposed rule language and contact information for comments, is available on the fisheries rulemaking page of the DNR website.

News Release February 2025 "Mille Lacs Lake Fisheries Advisory Committee | Meeting Set For February 18, 2025"

"The Mille Lacs Fisheries Advisory Committee (MLFAC) will meet from 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 18, at Izaty’s Resort (8383 Izaty’s Rd, Onamia, MN 56359) and via online video conference. The agenda will cover winter creel survey updates, an update on the multi-year plan discussion with the 1837 bands, an update on the fall night ban, and a discussion on regulations for 2025.

Members of the public may observe MLFAC meetings, but these meetings serve primarily as a way for the committee to hold group discussions. Ten minutes are reserved for public comments and questions. For the upcoming online meeting, members of the public who wish to observe the meeting or speak during the public comment period should contact millelacs.fisheries@state.mn.us by Tuesday, Feb. 18, at noon. Meeting minutes will be posted after the meeting on the Mille Lacs Lake management page.

Individuals with a disability who need a reasonable accommodation to participate in this event, please contact the Mille Lacs Lake area fisheries office by email at millelacs.fisheries@state.mn.us or by phone at 218-429-3031 or using your preferred Telecommunications Relay Provider.

The committee has been active since October 2015. Its purpose is to advise the Department of Natural Resources on the State of Minnesota’s fisheries management program for Mille Lacs Lake.

For more information about DNR’s management of Mille Lacs Lake and how to get involved, visit the Mille Lacs Lake management page. To sign up to receive these email updates, click on “Newsletter” on the left menu and enter your email in the blue box on the page."

Ely Area, Arrowhead Outdoors Fishing Report February 6, 2025

"Walleye fishing has steadily improved this last week. Anglers have mainly been catching quality walleyes in 10 to 16 feet of water, overnight, in their sleepers. Less active minnows like chubs have been the bait of choice for successful anglers. Glow demons in orange or green have been the colors to use.

Lake Trout - Lake Trout fishing was good for many this last week. Anglers reported catching trout in 30 to 40 feet of water. Flats and sunken islands have been the best areas to target for lakers. Blade baits, bucktails and tubes in silver, blue and chartreuse have been very effective on lakers. Suspending a sucker 5 to 10 feet off the bottom, under a tip up, has also been effective.

Stream Trout - Splake were a popular catch this last week for many stream trout anglers. Salted crappie minnows or gulp minnows, tipped on a small tungsten jig or jigging spoon, have been very effective. Key depths for Splake have been 20 to 40 feet of water. Rainbow trout have also been biting for many anglers. Small jigs or spoons tipped with wax worms have been effective for them. Key depths for them have been 5 to 15 feet under the ice over 10 to 40 feet of water.

Eelpout - Eelpout continues to pop up in anglers catches. 6 to 12 feet of water continues to be the depth anglers are finding them. Heavy spoons, loaded with minnow chunks and pounded on the bottom, have been very effective. Area anglers have been finding them near river mouths and shallow rocks." — Arrowhead Outdoors, 218-365-5358

Lake of the Woods, LOW Tourism February 6, 2025

"Ice fishing is still going strong throughout Big Traverse Bay on the south shore of Lake of the Woods. Some ice roads are now extending more than 16 miles out, with over two feet of ice reported in most areas. Resorts and outfitters continue increasing weight limits.

As a rule, fishing continues to be very good with consistent action for anglers. Most anglers are targeting deep mud with others fishing structure if available where they are going out of. There are fish in both areas. Most fishing activity is taking place in 26 to 32 feet of water. Anglers are finding a healthy mix of walleyes and saugers, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy fresh fish frys and bring fish home.

On the jigging line, jigging spoons with rattles tipped with a minnow head have been consistent. Lipless crankbaits and jigging rap style lures also doing well. On the deadstick, a plain hook or a small jig with a live minnow 6 inches to a foot off of the bottom. Don't lose patience because you never know when the fish will move through the area you're fishing. Anglers fishing the entire day normally have success. Electronics are a big help as well.

Although ice conditions on the Rainy River are good, they can also vary significantly due to the current, so anglers should always consult local resorts or outfitters for the most up-to-date safety information and fishing advice.

On the Rainy River, the morning and evening hours are the best for fishing walleyes. A jig and minnow combination has been a good presentation. A jigging spoon tipped with a minnow head is also producing some fish. Catch-and-release sturgeon fishing is still producing some big fish through the ice. There are two sturgeon seasons on Lake of the Woods and the Rainy River, a catch and release season and a harvest season in which you can keep one fish per calendar year.

The harvest season for sturgeon runs from April 24, 2025 thru May 7, 2025 and again beginning on July 1,2025 thru September 30, 2025. The catch and release season runs from May 8, 2025 thru May 15, 2025 and again from October 1, 2025 thru April 23, 2026.

Up at the Northwest Angle, ice fishing remains good. Resorts continue to move their fish houses staying on fish. Some fish houses are set up on structure while others are targeting deeper mud flats.

Anglers are catching a nice mix of walleyes, saugers, jumbo perch, pike, and tullibees. Good numbers of big crappies are still being caught in select areas and hard sided fish houses are available to target them. Check with a Northwest Angle resort for info.

Jigging one line, deadsticking the second is effective. Some days the jigging line is hot, other days the deadstick. Some good colors have been gold, glow red, glow white, wonder bread, pink, chartreuse and orange.

Lake of the Woods enjoys an extended ice fishing season with fish houses on the ice through March 31, 2025 and walleye and sauger seasons open through April 14, 2025. Perch, crappie, and pike seasons remain open year-round." — Lake of the Woods Tourism, (800) 382-FISH

Wired2Fish February 6, 2025 "Electrified Kayak : Old Town Sportsman BigWater"

"In my humble opinion, striped bass might just be the perfect gamefish. They eat everything from invertebrates nearly invisible to the naked eye up to 15-inch baitfish. This means you can catch them on just about any type of gear you desire, from flies and light tackle to heavy trolling setups. Among my favorite ways to chase them is with spinning rods; the kind you might use for largemouth. In my mind, there’s no better sport than a 28-inch striper ripping drag as the reel screams.

Another cool thing about stripers is the variety of habitats they utilize. Depending on the season, you can find them in extreme shallow waters with depths measured in inches or ..." Read Full Article and Learn More >> Electrified Kayak : Old Town Sportsman BigWater

Jeff Sundin February 6, 2025 "A Night with the Pros" | MN Fishing Museum and Hall of Fame

"A passion for fishing, bred into us for generations gives us a common bond. Today, anglers head outside to “test our luck” on fishing lakes and streams all over the state.

The reward for our pursuits varies, for some, only participation in the highest forms of competition while deploying the latest technology is good enough. For others, standing on the bank, hoping for a bobber to go down is equally rewarding. For most of us, happiness lies fishing somewhere between.

It is rewarding to me, to remember the history of fishing in Minnesota. Honoring where we came from, and at the same time, paying attention to where we’re headed. Minnesota’s Fishing Museum, and Fishing Hall of Fame offer a connection between the two. I wholeheartedly support the Minnesota Fishing Museum, and the Minnesota Fishing Hall of Fame. I’d love it if you would ..." Read >> "A Night with the Pros" | MN Fishing Museum and Hall of Fame 2025

Wired2Fish February 6, 2025 "Pike Using Saltwater to Invade More Habitats in SC Alaska"

"Invasive northern pike are expanding their territory in Alaska by using salt waterways to invade new freshwater areas in the south-central area of the state, according to a study recently published by the journal PLOS ONE titled, “Estuarine dispersal of an invasive Holarctic predator (Esox lucius) confirmed in North America.”

The study says that University of Alaska Fairbanks researchers working with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADFG) discovered the spread of the invasive northern pike by analyzing small ear stones called otoliths from fish caught in the region. This is the first documented proof that pike are using estuaries where fresh water mixes with ocean water to colonize new territories.

The otoliths have a unique composition of strontium isotopes in their layers, which can ..." Read Article and Learn More >> Pike Using Saltwater to Invade More Habitats in SC Alaska

February 2, 2025 "Grand Rapids Trout Fishing"

Happily, I graduated recently from my so-called “recovery period” from a minor surgery. Since then, we’ve been thinking about ice fishing, and the kids have been lobbying for a trip on the ice too. Even though I’ve been freed from lifting restrictions, I didn’t want to tackle too much of an expedition. And since Ryder, our youngest grandson was coming along on the trip, there was an extra level of consideration regarding “ease of access to the lake.

Our kids, Joelle and Patrick love to fish for trout and that idea sounded fine to us. So, after researching a few possibilities, we settled on a nearby Grand Rapids area lake with relatively easy access, and a good supply of trout stocked by the DNR Fisheries.

When we set out on the journey, conditions were favorable, the breeze was light, and the air was dry. By the time we made it onto the ice, the wind was picking up and the skies were turning darker. Pat quickly set up the fishing shelter, and got the heater going and then he, and I started exploring. My target depth range was 10 to 15 feet, that’s been my best depth in the past. Of the holes I drilled, my first one was “the best”, I had an active fish appear on the screen almost immediately.  It raced up to my lure, took a quick swing at it but then disappeared.

Meanwhile, I was chatting with an ice fisherman when his fishing partner stuck his head out the door holding a respectable rainbow trout. Cool, I thought, we’re in the right neighborhood, and with luck, maybe we’ll have a good day. I moved a further down the shoreline, drilled a couple more holes and not long afterward, I experienced another “drive-by”. A trout faced up again, almost struck, then disappeared.

From outside the hub, Pat and I heard Joelle say that she had hooked a trout. The rainbow pictured here is the one she caught, another respectable trout, and another glimmer of hope for a productive day. But as we explored, the winds picked up, and no trout came to the holes Pat, and I were fishing. The cold winds finally drove us inside the tent, and there, playing with Ryder, eating hot dogs and staying warm became the primary mission. Snow started falling too, and that reinforced the “new” fishing plan.

The fish Joelle caught earlier turned out to be the only catch of the day. She caught it on a green flutter spoon, fishing in a depth of 21 feet. I know, it doesn’t exactly sound like a high-level fishing trip, but that’s okay, that’s the way it worked out. Besides, I don’t recall anyone bumming out about the catch rate, I think we were all happy just to be there. We can worry about the fishing again next time we go out.

My only regret is that nobody rigged up a comfy chair in front of the heater and tucked me in for a nap. I guess there’s a certain advantage to being 8 months old! — Jeff Sundin, The Early Bird Fishing Guide Office Cell Call or Text 218-245-9858 or Email

Maps and Charts 101 | "NEW FishRapper Angling Education Section"

Interpreting the information contained on paper maps and interactive electronic charts was a topic brought up in a recent reader question. In a nutshell, the reader asked where he could find basic information about definitions that outdoor writers, television hosts and other "pro-anglers" use in their reports. Answering those questions led to a week-long project aimed at helping define common terms like breaklines, bars, points and weedlines.

Those individual Q&A replies are now consolidated ito a new FishRapper web page called "Mapping and Charting 101". With the launch of that page, a completely new section of the website "Angling Education" was born. The new section will expand as we add more fishing articles, videos and fishing reports aimed at answering the basic "How-To-Questions" that anglers, new to the sport will find helpful.

As always, your questions and comments are invited, so don't be shy! — Jeff Sundin, The Early Bird Fishing Guide Office Cell Call or Text 218-245-9858 or Email on Facebook on X

Wired2Fish January 28, 2025 "How to Catch More Crappies During Winter Months"

"Jack Uxa of Jack’s Guide Service on Lake of the Ozarks shares advice for finding and catching winter crappies on reservoirs. During the colder months, crappies tend to group in larger schools and hold in areas longer, making them easier to target. With the right approach and gear, anglers can experience the finest crappie fishing of the season.

HOW TO LOCATE WINTER CRAPPIES: Winter crappies gather near main lake points, docks, and brush piles. Uxa explains how to find these schools using forward-facing sonar while maintaining the proper distance to prevent spooking the school and make effortless casts. He then discusses where to ..." View Video and Learn More >> How to Catch More Crappies During Winter Months

You Are Invited To Become A Duly Deputized Fishrapper Cub Reporter Too!

If you've been waiting for a gold engraved invitation to participate in the daily reports, then stop waiting and consider this your own personal invitation.

Helping your fellow fishermen and women stay abreast of fishing conditions in your area is good for everybody and it's easier than you think! You don't have to write a book, you don't have to share your secret fishing spots and you don't even have to mention your lake. But even a few words about general trends, seasonal patterns and local weather conditions can really help.

Be like me, become a duly deputized "Cub Reporter", it's good for fishing! Contact Us or if you prefer to be "social", Fishing Reports Minnesota, the Facebook counterpart to this page is open to the public, so you can post your own fishing update or just share a photo of a nice catch.