FISHING REPORT from fishing guide Lynn Harker
May 9, 2019 – Fishing Opener Outlook
After a cooler than normal spring, water temps still remain in the high 40’s.
Crappie action is still going strong. Look for shallow mud bays in 2-8 feet of water. Crappies will be in or near cover. Cabbage weeds, emerging lily pads or trees are great places to fish. Crappies can be tightly schooled this time of year so keep moving till you find them. You don’t need crappie minnows, small jigs and plastics are fantastic now. My favorite is an 1 1/2 puddle jumper on a light jig.
Walleyes will be shallow. In low light fish in 3-8 ft. During mid day fish the first break in 8-12 ft. It might be too cold for leeches as they will ball up, jig and minnow would be best, preferably shiners. Fish slow! Casting usually is the best approach in shallow water so you don’t spook the fish.
Northern pike will be anywhere in shallow weeds. Shallow crank baits and spinner baits worked slowly will work best.
Remember, you can fish bass on the opener now, but it is catch and release only. Bass are now cruising the shallows in large numbers.
Be safe, water is very cold, always wear your life jacket. Have fun, opening day is a special time!!
Guided Fishing Trips with Lynn Harker
Need help finding the fish? Fishing Guide Lynn Harker knows all the spots. He has guided on many of the wonderful lakes that northern Minnesota is known for such as, Bay Lake, Mille Lacs, Gull Lake, Whitefish Lake, Pelican Lake, the Cuyuna Country Recreation Area mine pit lakes, and many of the smaller lakes in between.
To learn more call Lynn at 218-546-5509, or click below.