Fishing Report -- posted on Sunday, May 11 2008

With the opener a week past we are enjoying some decent fishing this week. Walleyes appear to be wrapping up or done spawning depending on the lake you are fishing. The deeper clear water lakes may still have some spawning activity going on, but the smaller stained lakes are about done. The walleye have been moving off to gravel bars on to existing weeds during the daytime, but a fair amount still coming in a cruising shallow during the low light periods. Expect most of these to be smaller males. Another spot to check is any downed timber or brush where the fish can get a little cover. These fish in shallow are quite spooky so approach them very quietly and use the lightest presentation you can get away with. A number of different baits as been used this week, but best action has been on a small fathead minnow in the 2”- 3” range.

Crappies are starting to come in shallow preparing for their turn at spawning. Look for them in areas with some weeds or reeds in 2-3 feet of water. Crappie minnows under of slip bobber or small plastic tube jigs will work great.

Largemouth and smallmouth bass are edging toward the shallows, but mostly just cruising. I think they are just looking for the warmer water that the shallows provide. Not very active just yet, but do not be surprised to pick up a bonus smallmouth or two on a given outing. Remember that bass fishing is catch and release only and only barbless hooks can be used until June 21.

Pike are cruising their traditional areas, meaning shallow weeds. They have still been seen just coming off the spawning mode and not very aggressive, but the ones that have finished and recovered are willing to take smaller offerings. Again think in terms of 2”-4” bait size. Live minnows or shallow running crankbaits will do the trick.

In general I would suggest concentrating your efforts for all species in the warmest water you can find and look for cover. Timber, brush, cribs and larger rocks will hold fish now. Think small and slow in your bait presentations. Fishing should be pretty good coming up for a while and even if the weather is not so nice for humans the fish should not mind unless we get a severe cold front. Feel free to check out the fishing reports message board at my website where I update frequently.