With stable weather approaching in the next weeks to come look for the fishing to remain good across the region. Panfish(Bluegills and Crappies)to continue to get better as the weed growth continues to mature. Recent bug hatches have given more opportunities to feed on insects that give panfish multiple opportunities to find other food sources. With walleye fishing taking center stage early in the season now other species become readily available. Every lake in the Grand Rapids and Itasca County area have good panfishing with several lakes on the top of the list. Little Cutfoot, Pokegama, Bass, Big and Little Balsam, and Big and Little Splithand are all good choices for nice panfish.

Large and Smallmouth fishing has been excellent throughout the area with weed beds starting to grow after a slow start. As with panfish, especially largemouth bass need weeds for food and cover. Also they readily feed on young panfish as a food source and need cover to hunt down their food. Largemouth generally feed on what’s available but can be found around weed beds, wood, rock piles with weeds, and docks. A variety of baits can attract then with top water and explosive way in the morning on a calm day. Some of the best largemouth lakes in the area are Big Rice, Pokegama, Wabana, Big Balsam, Long Lake, and numerous lakes in. the Scenic Hwy. area.

Smallmouth bass on the other hand most often need clear cool water as their preferred territory. They like largemouth need multiple food sources available, but have a preference for hard bottom and rocks for their hangout. Crayfish are their dominant food target but will eat several different food sources. Small baits like a Ned Rig, Jig Worm, Chatter baits, and Top water are irresistible to smallmouths on any given day. Some of the better smallmouth lakes in the area are Wabana, Deer, Pokegama, and at times the Mississippi River.

Walleye fishing continues to attract many anglers to the Grand Rapids area and with the stable weather coming that should continue to provide good opportunities. Walleyes are continuing their migration to summer locations of off shore and summer structures. Jig and Minnow is still producing fish on the majority of lakes, but leeches and crawlers have also been working well. Slip bobbers and a leech have been working especially well for suspended walleyes during the day and finding suspended fish with the use of your electronics is key. The Itasca County  area is blessed with great walleye lakes and a few to pay close attention to are Bowstring, Big Winnie, Deer, Pokegama, Big Splithand, and Bass Lakes.

Have a safe and fun weekend enjoying the outdoors in the Grand Rapids and Itasca County area.