Good morning from the Quiet Lakes, some pretty good thunderstorms rolled through early this morning. Our rain gauge shows we received about 1-1/2″ of rain. We must have had some strong winds as well, as a few of our chairs on the deck got blown over. We definitely needed the rain as most lakes in the area are down by about a foot. The rain should have helped cool water temps as well, as they were steady in the upper 70s. The bite has been fairly good for most species, while others have become quite difficult to find and catch.
Musky–Musky have been active, and anglers moved a lot of fish on spinnerbaits in the weeds, and smaller twitch/crankbaits in and around weeds and shallow structure as well. Anglers should target musky on deeper weed edges anywhere from 8-12 FOW.
Northern pike–Pike have also been active, mostly on smaller bucktails, spinner baits and small Rapalas. Look for pike in and around weeds as well anywhere from 3-12 FOW.
Walleye–Walleye have mostly disappeared on the lakes by us, as the bite has gotten tough. Deep running presentations should work on most lakes, while on some lakes they hunker down in the weeds and are tough to fish out. Crawlers harnesses, lindy rigs and other slow moving live bait presentations are great choices right now. For weed walleye, jigs and minnows or plastics can work.
LMB–Largemouth have been hitting everything from wacky rigged plastics to small musky baits. Buzz baits and top water frogs are seeing action too. Look for bass in shallow weeds such as lily pads, reeds, and other emergent vegetation.
SMB–Smallies have been hitting wacky rigged plastics and also top water baits such as Whopper Ploppers. Look for fish on or near structure, whether its rocks or weeds that are adjacent to deeper basins.
Crappie/Bluegill/Perch–Panfish are still in and around weed beds, and using live bait such as crawlers, leaf worms, and crappie minnows are great options. Smaller baits such as beetle spins, and mimic minnows can be great options too. Gulp! minnows are another solid option if you prefer not to use live bait. Look for panfish anywhere from 6-12 FOW.
That is all I have for this week’s report. Not a whole doing as we are in the summer doldrums as far as fishing goes. Have a great weekend and we will talk soon.
Greg