This last stage of warm weather definitely put several species of fish into a transitional summer pattern .Locations can vary depending on bodies of water and supporting structures. Following these trends can definitely steer you in a positive direction  more often then not. On some lakes these trends can be repetitious and similar conditions can be found and he delivery system can be the same. Case in point would be walleye fishing and catching fish with the use of slip bobbers and leeches for walleyes at similar suspended depths which is an older type method that continues to astound me with its variations and consistency. It’s making a strong comeback in the world of walleye fishing especially in very clear water during and after a couple big bug hatches. Electronics plays a key role in finding schools of hungry walleyes and putting the bait right in their wheelhouse. I like a slightly longer rod such as a St. Croix 7’6” Avid so I can have the ability to make a sweeping hook set especially on windy days. With a spinning reel that has a higher gear ratio it allows me to pick up lots of line quickly and let the rod and reel do the work. Some of the better summer walleye lakes in the Grand Rapids and Itasca County area are Big Jesse, Winnie, Pokegama, Swan, and Trout Lake in Coleraine.

 Muskie fishing is a species of fish that is pursued by anglers all over the country,  and Itasca County has several lakes and including the Mississippi River that can offer opportunities to catch a trophy of a lifetime. It’s a lot of hard work and casting for hours and days on end, but the results can be heart stopping when a fish of mammoth proportions is on the end of your line and even when they follow your bait to the boat, can give you goose bumps. The warmer weather creates opportunities for Muskies to roam certain areas that are rich in food sources. Large Cabbage flats that contain forage in the summer can put food on the table in a Musky’s world. Heavier tackle with 7-9 foot rods that are capable of throwing large baits great distances allows more flexibility of long retrieves and more time your lure is in the zone. Braided lines of 60-80 pound test will insure firm hook sets when a Musky comes calling. Level wind reels are also an important tool for advanced speed of gear ratio to reel line at an upbeat speed. At times this is needed to trigger a Musky that wants to chase down his or her next meal. Large lures that simulate bigger meals are many times what a Musky prefers. In line spinners such as Cow Girls and several other makes and models are great baits to throw and retrieve. Large Glide Baits and noisy surface types can also be baits that trigger a Musky at times. Minnesota and Itasca County can provide the opportunities to catch a fish of dreams. Hire a good reputable guide to show you the many options you have. Grant Prokop of Thousand Lakes Sports in Grand Rapids is one of the top Musky guides in the region. He has many trophy Muskies to his credit for clients and is a great teacher as well.

Some of the lakes to consider in Itasca County for top Musky producers are Moose Lake, Deer Lake, Big and Little Winnie, the Mississippi River, and North Star lakes. Come enjoy summer fishing in Grand Rapids, Minnesota. There is still a lot of summer left. Check out our Fishing Page for details about fishing guides, and then pick your dates, book the guide, and then book your Grand Rapids Lodging. You can bring the entire family! There is always something to do for all ages in the Grand Rapids, MN area. Check out our Events Calendar Page, Things To Do Page, and our Outdoor Recreation Page to view all types of things to do while on vacation in Grand Rapids, MN.

The weekly Grand Rapids MN Fishing Report provided by Tom Neustrom, MN Fishing Connections. Tom Neustrom is an inductee of both the Freshwater Hall of Fame and the MN Fishing Hall of Fame.