Learn tips and techniques on fishing for bass, walleye and panfish in the Grand Rapids, MN area. The heat is on and changes in water temperatures are on the horizon. With heat indexes in the 80’s and 90’s, it doesn’t take too long for the surface temperature to rise and species to react to warmer water temperatures. Looking for a memorable Fishing Trip In Northern Minnesota? Book a Grand Rapids, MN Fishing Trip and Book a Professional Fishing Guide.
Fishing For Bass
Fishing for bass (Largemouth and Smallmouth) has been off the charts on many of the lakes in the Grand Rapids area. Locations are pretty much notorious and really haven’t changes much over time except for lakes that are transitioning because of added weed growth. Many companies have targeted anglers interest with introductions of new style baits that in many cases are modifications of existing baits or new concepts for catching both species of bass. Case in point Smallmouth bass most often require cooler clearer water then their cousin the largemouth. They prefer gravel mixed with weeds and rocks for bottom content. One of there main food sources are crayfish, but will eat young of the year perch and other minnow types. Largemouth bass survive well in warmer more turbid waters and are especially fond of young of the year panfish such as bluegills. Being fond of weedy areas this another reason largemouth are attracted to bluegills and other baitfish that occupy similar areas. They too like crayfish and will dine on them when they are in the neighborhood. Soft plastics are good choices of artificial baits for both species but so are top water baits, spinner baits, and crank baits. Drop shotting and Ned Rigs are especially popular for Smallmouth, but both species are very attracted to either at times. Good action and fun to catch are always a label of both species. Some of the noteworthy lakes in the Grand Rapids area that are good for both species of bass are Wabana, Pokegama, Deer, Trout, and Big Turtle.
Fishing For Walleye
As previously mentioned in reports there are specific areas on lakes that will hold fish the entire season and with hotter summers of late, concentrating on shallow water locations with weeds will be beneficial. In the case of walleyes for generations it was drilled into our heads that once the walleyes were done spawning, they moved out to off shore locations and had to be fished on deeper structures. In the past few decades it was discovered and passed along to anglers there were many instances that went against that theory. There are locations shallow that will hold walleyes all season long and especially if there is good weed growth and an abundance of food available. This is a theory that has held strong for people like Al Lindner and many other successful walleye anglers through those decades of finding and catching walleyes in a variety of places. Wood, trees, weeds, rocks and other shallow structure have been found to hold walleyes all through the open water period of finding and catching walleyes. Sure there are deep locations that will always hold walleyes such as off shore structures and mud flats. Many times their food choices have given them the availability to find larvae and other creatures that inhabit soft bottom deep areas of lakes. Every good walleye lake most often has 3-4 differences in where walleyes will be found throughout the season. If you want to be consistent in catching walleyes you need to pay attention and get good at fishing them in all situations. Whether you are rigging, jigging, trolling, casting or fishing floats, it is always best to learn and use all the tools needed to be a better angler. Some of the best walleye lakes in the Grand Rapids area are Pokegama, Deer, Swan, Splithand, Bowstring, and Big Winnie.
Fishing For Panfish
Panfish are still and will continue to be a target species and especially with the warm weather period we are embraced by. Grand Rapids continues to be one of the best destinations in Minnesota for quality fishing of multiple species. Contact one of the very good bait shops in the area and get all the information you will need.
Make sure that you are aware of the Minnesota Boating Regulations and Minnesota Fishing Regulations before you head out on the water.