As changes take place in weather. and animal life senses the changes before humans, we experience one of nature’s phenomenon that is a wonder to observe. Whether we see snow melt in the spring or when summer turns to fall, it is truly a force of nature that is like no other.

I have always marveled at color change in the fall especially in mid to late August when the tips of maple and aspen leaves begin to show a distinct color change. Within a few weeks the colors become more brilliant and Mother Nature’s paint brush is in full swing.

Some of the best fishing of the entire year is upon us and several species are starting to feed on more of a regular basis. Always remember that food is their driving force in existence therefore location of readily available bait can be an important part of locating fish. Walleyes are migrating on several of the shallower sand lakes from deep to shallow and will stay in those shoreline locations throughout the entire fall until freeze up. Points, weed beds, rock piles and bottom change are key areas in the fall for walleyes. A little bit of wind can help to get walleye’s taste buds going and many times can be the turning point of a slow start improving. Get local information from bait shops in the Grand Rapids-Deer River area for they keep their finger on the pulse of what’s happening and where. Thousand Lakes Sports, River Rat Bait in Cohasset, Fred’s Bait in Deer River, and the Max Mini Store in Squaw Lake are all good sources of information and excellent bait.

With the water temperatures starting to drop into the low 60’s, a couple of the presentations that are effective are spinners with a minnow or half a crawler slow trolled at 1.25-1.40 mph in and around pods of bait and fish. I do prefer an eighth ounce jig and minnow but there are times when a half crawler will work better until the water cools down to the mid to high 50’s. When running spinners a #3 gold Colorado or Indiana blade will out fish everything else at times, but don’t be afraid to try other colors as well. Many times the bite trolling spinners can be so violent they will almost pull the rod right out of your hand. Theory is other walleyes are close by and not wanting to share their meal. For me it’s a good sign that other walleyes are in the area and re-fishing that same spot may produce additional fish.

Another fall species that is especially attractive in the fall are crappies. They begin to migrate to deeper mud flats as the weather cools down and good electronics can help you track their movements. In bays and main lake points that have been holding crappies all summer they will tend to move off into deeper locations that most often contain the food sources they are looking for. Look for softer mud bottom areas that hold the grubs and tiny critters crappies are feeding on. Many times crappies will not be suspended on your electronics and will appear as lumps on the bottom. Dragging through them with an 1/8^th ounce jig will most often be the ticket. Northland Tackle has developed the Tungsten Crappie King Jig that blends the increased weight of a smaller jig size that gets to the fish quicker with a needle point Gamakatsu hook. Fish it plain or with a small minnow or plastic tail and you’re in business.

Fall fishing can be your fantasy time of the year for fast action and lots of fun. Don’t put the boat away just yet!!

Ruffed Grouse and Woodcock are species of upland birds that attract countless numbers of hunters to the Grand Rapids area. With any numbers of trails and walking trails through thousands of acres of public access it is no wonder what a popular fall activity t is. The estimated bird counts predicted to be higher than normal. With colorful surroundings and the freshness of the air, being in the woods is so very special.

As you can see whether you are fishing or hunting, the Grand Rapids and Itasca County area is the place you want to visit this fall.