In general, July is an excellent time for avid and novice birders to check out the Minnesota River Dam in Granite Falls, the dam near Watson, and the spillway on Marsh Lake near Appleton to see American White Pelicans. These pelicans put on quite a display while fishing, and are very graceful in flight. For more on this area, visit www.prairiewaters.com

The following is a list of recent, significant sightings:

The BROWN PELICAN has been present throughout the week at Little Spirit Lake in southern Jackson County, which is just north of the Iowa border and southwest of the town of Jackson. The bird has been present at the north end of Spirit Lake in Iowa just south of Jackson County Road 2 since July 14th, but seems to be more commonly seen at the Little Spirit Lake location. The best place to view the pelican is from the boat launch at the north end of Little Spirit Lake. At the dock, look southward to where the bird has often roosted just off the peninsula.

Also of note is the BLACK-HEADED GULL that has been seen at both locations.

At least one CLARK’S GREBE was still at Lake Osakis in Todd County on July 21st.

Shorebirds have been reported in small numbers from Walker in Cass County, and the Crane Creek area near New Germany in Carver County. Species found include SEMIPALMATED PLOVER, SEMIPALMATED SANDPIPER, LEAST SANDPIPER, BAIRD’S SANDPIPER, SOLITARY SANDPIPER, PECTORAL SANDPIPER, and STILT SANDPIPER.

Two EURASIAN COLLARED-DOVES were in the town of Otter Tail in Otter Tail County on July 24th. Jeff Schultz reported them at the feeders in the vicinity of Lake Boulevard.

Kiki Sonnen found a NORTHERN MOCKINGBIRD on the 26th. The bird was seen along Mississippi River Boulevard at the bridge between Huron and Dartmouth streets in southeast Minneapolis.

And in Cook County, Mike Steffes found four BLACK-THROATED BLUE WARBLERS on Moose Mountain on July 28th.

The Fishing Hot Spot this week is the city of RED WING, where anglers are taking a mixed bag of walleyes, northern pike, largemouth and smallmouth bass from the Mississippi River.

Anglers may obtain fishing licenses 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, by dialing 1-888-665-4236, or accessing http://www.wildlifelicense.com/mn/index.html And, please consult Minnesota DNR rules and regulations for slot limits on specific lakes.

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NORTHEASTERN MINNESOTA FISHING REPORT

DULUTH
Lake Superior is producing good numbers of trout, salmon and walleyes, especially on pink and purple lures and rigs. Lake trout are active 120-160 feet down, and hitting flashers and flies. Spoons worked in shallower depths are taking salmon. Walleyes can be found along the South Shore, roughly four miles out. Walleyes are also being pulled from Island Lake on bobbers and leeches, as well as crawlers and lindy rigs, worked in 14-18 feet of water. On Fish Lake, try a slip bobber and leech at the 8-foot weedlines for a few walleyes. Caribou Lake is giving up quite a few largemouth bass. For muskies, hit Island Lake, as well as the shallow water weedlines on most area lakes. Bluegills are going strong on Nichols and Caribou lakes. And, smallmouth bass and muskie action has been excellent on the St. Louis River–for the most fish, try a topwater lure.

KABETOGAMA
On Lakes Kabetogama and Namakan, early morning bobber anglers are having success with the walleyes. Bobbers and slip bobbers worked just outside the weeds and in the weed pockets are producing lots of northern pike, smallmouth bass, and an occasional walleye. During evening hours, use a slip sinker rig tipped with a leech or crawler at the reef structure and rock pile edges–depths of 12-28 feet have been best depending on the weather. For walleyes and northern pike, try an artificial lure trolled along the shoreline in 12-16 feet of water. Troll or pitch surface lures in and around the weedy bays and weedlines for northern pike and smallmouth bass.

INTERNATIONAL FALLS
On Rainy Lake, the fish have headed to deeper, cooler waters, and have become a little more difficult to locate. For walleyes, look for moving water, such as around Kettle Falls and Ranier, and toss in a minnow or leech. On the Rainy River, work diving lures through the deepest holes. Northern pike remain aggressive, and river anglers report that the sturgeon can still be seen breaching the water near the rapids. Smallmouth bass action has been great, both in the river and on the lake. The Big Fork, Littlefork and Rainy River landings are all in good shape despite the recent high water levels.

GRAND RAPIDS
Walleyes are being pulled from Bowstring Lake on rigs tipped with crawlers and leeches worked at the humps. Perch are also being taken on small jigs and crappie minnows, especially from the weedlines out to 18 feet. Little Island, Balsam, Spider and Round lakes are producing good numbers of bass. Northern pike are being taken on minnows and spoons. The Bowstring River has been good for sunfish.

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NORTHCENTRAL/WEST MINNESOTA FISHING REPORT

BAUDETTE
On Lake of the Woods, stable weather patterns have led to excellent fishing throughout the lake. Northern pike remain extremely active in the tributaries leading to the Rainy River. Smallmouth bass are hitting soft-bodied tube baits on fat rapalas worked along the shoreline of the Rainy River where there is a steep drop. At the Northwest Angle and Islands area, anglers are taking huge muskies on surface lures. Walleye action is very good at the rocks and reefs. Just some of the hot spots include Big Island, Little Oak Island, and the north and south sides of Garden Island. For the most success, try a jig tipped with minnows or crawlers. And many trophy-sized walleyes are coming in from all over the South Shore.

BLACKDUCK
The smaller area lakes are giving up good numbers of panfish. Hit the weed edges of Gilstad and the Twin lakes for sunnies and crappies. For the most fish, use small leeches and crappie minnows. On Upper Red Lake, huge northern pike are being pulled from the flowing water near Tamarack, Ditch #5, and Shotley Brook.

BEMIDJI
Panfish are very active on Grace and Big Bass lakes. Bluegills can be found suspended over the weeds in 10-15 feet of water using waxworms or grubs, especially during lowlight hours. Bass are hitting plastics worked over the lily pads on Lake Thirteen, as well as North and South Twin, and Grace lakes. The walleye bite is picking up on Lake Bemidji, with fish hitting spinners and twistertails trolled over the flats. During the day, try crawlers in 7-10 feet of water, and at night, use shad raps in depths of 12-15 feet, especially over Diamond Point. Lakes Bemidji and Plantagenet are producing muskies on topwater lures, with a 50-inch fish recently reported.

BENA
On Lake Winnibigoshish, anglers continue to find quite a few eating-sized and larger slot fish each day. Rainbow spinners are working well, with nightcrawlers and leeches also producing fish. The mid-lake humps are giving up some nice fish to patient anglers, including some large jumbo perch. Big Cutfoot Sioux Lake can be counted on for walleyes. Try a rig tipped with a leech or nightcrawler in 12-16 feet of water, especially near Battle Point, and the flats near the Gap on the Cutfoot side. Crappies are active early and late in the day, in and around Williams Narrows.

WALKER
On Leech Lake, muskies are hitting white bucktails and other topwater lures at the weed edges. Largemouth bass action has been excellent in the rice beds. The panfish are also very active. Walleyes are being pulled from Walker and Agency bays during the day. At night, try bobber fishing at Sand Point with leeches.

HACKENSACK
A few walleyes continue to be pulled from Ten Mile, Birch and Woman lakes. Try leeches during the day, and crankbaits in the shallows during evening hours. Bass are biting on Birch Lake, and sunfish are being pulled from 12-15 feet of water on Pleasant Lake.

PARK RAPIDS
Fish Hook Lake is producing walleyes in 24-30 feet of water on leeches and crawlers. Northern pike are hitting sucker minnows worked in depths of 16-18 feet on Long Lake. Panfish are active on the Crow Wing Chain in 14 feet of water, with ice flies and waxworms taking the most fish. And bass action has been excellent on most area lakes.

DETROIT LAKES
Walleyes are being taken on fuzz-e-grubs and minnows worked at the deepwater humps and weedlines. Some of the lakes to check out include Big Cormorant, Detroit, White Earth, Strawberry, Shell, Lizzie, Lida, Cotton and Big Toad. The largemouth bass bite remains excellent along the deepwater weedlines on most area lakes, with jigs tipped with plastic tubes or plastic worms working best. Northern pike fishing is picking up on Lake Melissa along the steep breaks. Sunfish are hitting little nipper jigs tipped with a small plastic tail or waxworm. Look for the largest fish at the deepwater weedlines.

BATTLE LAKE
Panfish can be found in depths of 15-18 feet on Blanche, Rush, Star Crystal and Battle lakes. Bass action has been excellent on most area lakes–for the most fish, try tossing a spinnerbait or frog into the weeds. Northern pike are being taken when trolling sucker minnows through the weeds. For a few walleyes, hit Battle Lake using leeches in 30 feet of water during evening hours. Also try small spinners tipped with leeches or nightcrawlers on Star and Pelican lakes. And muskie anglers are having success on Battle Lake while trolling or casting heavy baits into the weeds.

ALEXANDRIA
Crappies are biting at the deep weedlines during lowlight hours on the Le Homme dieu Chain of Lakes. During the day, look for bluegills at the deep cabbage weeds and coontail in 14-18 feet of water on most area lakes. Bass action remains steady in the shallows, with fish hitting soft plastics at the docks and bulrushes. The deep weedline bite is also good on Carolina rigs and crankbaits. Northern pike are hitting sucker minnows along the deep weedlines, as well as trolled or cast brightly-colored crankbaits. A few walleyes are being taken on trolled crankbaits after dark, and on a slip bobber and leech worked in 18-26 feet during early morning hours on Miltona and Carlos lakes.

STARBUCK
Channel cats are biting at the Benson area of the Chippewa River. On Lake Minnewaska, hit 12-14 feet of water using small leeches or waxworms for sunfish, or crappie minnows for the crappies. Bass are holding right off the 12- to 14-foot weedlines. For the most fish, try dark-colored plastic worms. And for a few walleyes, hit 25-28 feet of water using lindy rigs tipped with nightcrawlers or leeches.

CROSSLAKE
Walleyes can be found in 34-38 feet on Crosslake, Upper Whitefish and Pelican lakes using lindy rigs tipped with redtail chubs. Northern pike action has been good on pike minnows and spinner rigs worked in 18 foot depths along the weedlines, especially on Mission and Whitefish lakes. Bass can be found in the weeds and under the docks using spinnerbaits or plastics. Crappies can be found suspended in depths of 12-14 feet, especially in areas with shade. The best approach has been to cast, and slowly retrieve, small 1/16-ounce jigs and twistertails, with or without minnows.

NISSWA
Anglers are having a great time catching lots of bass and northern pike, as well as a few crappies and sunfish. The bass and pike are hanging along the deep weed-edges in depths of 10-18 feet. For the most bass, try dark-colored plastics in 2-18 feet of water on Gull and North Long lakes, as well as many of the smaller area lakes. Northern pike are slamming spinnerbaits tipped with minnows, as well as lindy rigs and redtail chubs at the weedbeds. Crappie anglers are having success during morning and evening hours using thumper jigs tipped with a puddle jumper trolled through 10-14 feet of water. Good numbers of bass are also being taken. Nice-sized bluegills are being pulled from 15-20 feet of water on Gull and North Long lakes. The best approach has been a small jig tipped with a panfish leech or worm, fished under a slip bobber. And a few nice walleyes can be found in 25-40 feet during morning hours. During evening hours, concentrate on 15-20 foot depths. And night bobber fishing has been excellent using a lindy lighted bobber and a leech.

ISLE
On Lake Mille Lacs, the mud flats, such as Seven Mile, Curley’s and Greg’s, remain the best bet for fishing during the day. Spinners with crawlers or leeches have been the most effective. On windy days, try bobber-fishing up on the rock reefs, such as Three Mile, Agate and Banana. Please remember that the Mille Lacs walleye slot has loosened to a 22-28 release slot. This means you can harvest four walleyes under 22-inches, or three under 22-inches and one over 28-inches. Smallmouth bass remain active on the 3-8 foot rock reefs, with fish hitting skitter pops, power craws and tubes. For muskies, use Awakers and Bulldogs.

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TWIN CITIES FISHING REPORT

ST. CLOUD
Panfish are biting on Pearl, Sylvia, Sugar, Goodner and Pleasant lakes–try waxworms and leeches at the cabbage beds and deep weed edges. Bass continue to attack spinnerbaits worked over the flats, and weedless topwater baits tossed into heavy cover–Sugar and Cedar lakes have been best. Fly anglers are taking bass and northern pike on Dahlberg Divers. A few walleyes are coming from area lakes during lowlight hours in the weeds and in deeper waters. Northern pike are hitting sucker minnows and artificials on Big Swan and Pleasant lakes, just off the 10- to 17-foot weedlines. The Mississippi River is producing northern pike, catfish and smallmouth bass-try smaller artificial lures, leeches, minnows and crayfish for the smallies. Fly fishing on the Mississippi River has been best using weighted wooly buggers, conehead leeches, and sculpin or crayfish streamers. Catfish are very active on the Sauk River, and hitting sucker minnows and gobs of nightcrawlers in the holes at all hours of the day.

EDEN VALLEY
The Horseshoe Chain, Long, Browns, Cedar Island, Becker, Rice and Koronis lakes are producing sunfish in 4-12 feet of water on small jigs tipped with a waxworm or angleworm. Crappies are becoming more active in 15 feet of water on Rice and Koronis lakes–try a flu flu jig and crappie minnow for the most fish. Northern pike are being pulled from most area lakes. Smallmouth bass are active in the shallows, out to 20 foot depths. A few walleyes are being taken during early morning and late evening hours, just before dark. The best approach has been a lindy rig and leech on Koronis, Rice and Grand lakes.

ANNANDALE
Numerous northern pike are being pulled from the 15-20 foot weedlines on Clearwater Lake, with suckers minnows under bobbers or trolled working best. Bass are hitting plastic worms and lizards during early morning hours at the weedlines and cabbage. Walleyes can be found in 20-25 feet of water on Clearwater Lake using lindy rigs and spinner rigs tipped with leeches. Sunnies are hitting waxworms and angle worms in depths of 10-15 feet.

WACONIA
On Lake Waconia, muskies are active at the 15-20 foot weedlines, with a few northern pike mixed in. Bass and sunfish are also hitting at the weedlines. For bass, work the pencil reeds on the west and north ends of the lake. Walleye anglers are taking a few fish while bobber fishing around Kegg’s Reef at night. During the day, try a jig tipped with a leech or minnow around Red’s and North reefs. Crappies can be found in the deeper waters around the reefs.

WAYZATA
On Lake Minnetonka, sunfish are biting in shallow water bays. Largemouth bass are active at the outside weed edges, and hitting spinnerbaits. Bobber fishing with a sucker minnow at the weedlines is producing some northern pike.

CHISAGO CITY
Panfish are hitting at the outside weedlines in 10-12 feet of water, especially on Chisago, South Center and Sunrise lakes. Northern pike are also biting at the weedlines, and hitting medium sucker minnows under a bobber on North Center and Chisago lakes. Walleye action has been best on Green Lake, and off Sunset Point on South Center Lake in 17-23 feet of water, with leeches and fatheads working best. For bass, hit the deep weedlines of Chisago and Green lakes.

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SOUTHERN MINNESOTA FISHING REPORT

RED WING
Largemouth and smallmouth bass are being pulled from the backwaters of the Mississippi River towards Wabasha. For the most fish, hit Indian Slough, or the wingdams in front of Reed’s Landing using artificial baits, such as a scum frog or moss boss. Walleye action has been best pulling crankbaits on the Maiden Rock flats. Northern pike action has been good using sucker minnows under bobbers where the Rush River flows into the Mississippi River.

MANKATO
Catfish are taking large suckers on the Minnesota River. Walleyes are being pulled from Lake Washington at night–for the most fish, try trolling spinners with crawlers or leeches. On Big Jeff Lake, use spinnerbaits for numbers of northern pike. Bass and pike are biting at the shallow weeds on Lake Washington. And for crappies and sunnies, hit 12 foot depths at Grassy Island.

MONTEVIDEO
Catfish are biting on the Minnesota River, especially at the snags and current breaks. For the most fish, use suckers, cutbait or nightcrawlers.

ORTONVILLE
Catfish are being pulled from the Minnesota River at the Hwy 75 Dam near the town of Odessa. On Big Stone Lake, panfish are active on the south end of the lake. Bluegills and perch are being caught at Skeleton Island along the weed edges in 7-8 feet of water.

In general, July is an excellent time for avid and novice birders to check out the Minnesota River Dam in Granite Falls, the dam near Watson, and the spillway on Marsh Lake near Appleton to see American White Pelicans. These pelicans put on quite a display while fishing, and are very graceful in flight. For more on this area, visit www.prairiewaters.com

The following is a list of recent, significant sightings:

The BROWN PELICAN mentioned on Monday’s unscheduled update of this report has been present throughout the week in southern Jackson County. Peder Svingen and Anthony Hertzel first found it on July 16th at Little Spirit Lake just north of the Iowa border and southwest of the town of Jackson. The bird had been present at the north end of Spirit Lake in Iowa just south of Jackson County Road 2 since the 14th, but seems to be more commonly seen at the Little Spirit Lake location. The best place to view the pelican is from the boat launch at the north end of Little Spirit Lake. At the dock, look southward to where the bird has often roosted just off the penninsula.

Also of note is the BLACK-HEADED GULL that has been seen at both locations. Though found in this general vicinity on eleven previous occasions, this is the first summer occurrence.

Two CAROLINA WRENS were found by Bruce Fall on July 17th at Murphy-Hanrehan Park in Scott County. The birds were about 175 yards southwest of Trail Marker #16.

And there was an unusual sighting of a BLACK-BILLED MAGPIE on July 16th by Jay Hamernick at 149th Street and Lexington Avenue in southern Anoka County.

The Fishing Hot Spot this week is the city of DETROIT LAKES, where anglers are taking a mixed bag of walleyes, bass, northern pike, muskies, crappies and large bluegills from lakes throughout the area.

Anglers may obtain fishing licenses 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, by dialing 1-888-665-4236, or accessing http://www.wildlifelicense.com/mn/index.html And, please consult Minnesota DNR rules and regulations for slot limits on specific lakes.

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SOUTHERN MINNESOTA FISHING REPORTS

MANKATO
Catfish are hitting large suckers on the Minnesota River. Walleyes are taking spinners with crawlers or leeches trolled from 8 p.m. until midnight on Lake Washington. Bass and northern pike have been most active in the shallow weeds of Lake Washington. For crappies and sunnies, try 12 foot depths around Grassy Island. Anglers are taking pike from Big Jeff Lake on spinnerbaits.

MONTEVIDEO
The Minnesota River is producing catfish on suckers, cutbait and nightcrawlers. Water levels have returned to normal so anglers can fish their traditional spots, such as the current breaks and snags. A few walleyes are coming out of Lake Lac qui Parle, with even better reports coming from the river.

ORTONVILLE
On Big Stone Lake, walleyes can be found at the weedline in the middle of the lake. Anglers are starting to take a few perch and bluegills from the south end of the lake at the 7-8 foot weedline. Catfish are hitting nightcrawlers on the Minnesota River, roughly 10 miles from the town of Big Stone near the Hwy 75 Dam.

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TWIN CITIES FISHING REPORTS

ST. CLOUD
Panfish have moved into deeper waters due to the recent hot temperatures. Panfish remain active, and last week, some panfish were as deep as 16 feet on Big Fish, Sauk and Big Birch lakes. Grand and Pearl lakes are giving up numbers of fish just off the weed edges and right in the weeds on waxworms and baby leeches. Northern pike are extremely active on area lakes, with a fish over 30-inches recently reported. The best approach has been a sucker minnow worked in 14-17 feet of water. Bass are hitting topwater lures during early morning and evening hours in the shallows. During the day, work the weed edges or holes in the lily pads. For the larger bass, use a Texas-rig or pig-n-jig. The Mississippi River is producing walleyes below and above the 10th Street Dam. The preferred presentation has been a leech, hook and split shot. A few crappies are coming from the area just below the 10th Street Dam and above the Sartell Dam. Fly anglers are expected to soon have success with the smallmouth bass around the Beaver Islands.

EDEN VALLEY
Walleyes are active in depths of 22-25 feet on Lakes Koronis and Rice, and hitting lindy rigs tipped with leeches, especially at the islands and drop-offs. Sunfish action has been best in 6-12 feet of water on Horseshoe, Long, Koronis and Rice lakes. Bass anglers are having fun in 10-16 feet of water on Horseshoe and Koronis lakes, with fish being taken on spinnerbaits, nightcrawlers, and worm rigs. For northern pike, try bobber fishing with a sucker minnow in the deeper waters, 6-8 feet off the bottom.

ANNANDALE
Clearwater Lake is producing sunfish at the 10- to 15-foot weedlines, with ice fly jigs tipped with a leech or waxworm taking the most fish. Hit the south point off Bungalow Island for the best results. Northern pike are hitting sucker minnows at the 15-foot weedlines, with some larger pike taken from depths of 20-22 feet. A 40-inch catch-and-release fish was reported this week. A few walleyes are being pulled from 20-25 feet of water on lindy rigs and spinner rigs tipped with leeches or crawlers. Bass are hitting plastic worms, sluggos and white/yellow spinnerbaits off the deep weedline breaks. For crappies, head to Lake Augusta.

WACONIA
Lake Waconia is producing good numbers of muskies, with multiple mid-40’s- to 50-inch fish being reported. Good action can be found at the beach area at the outside 8- to 12- foot weedlines. Northern pike are hitting large spinnerbaits and bucktails in the same areas. Walleyes can be found in roughly 12-18 feet of water at Kegg’s Reef, the east side of the island, and at Cemetery Reef. Bass are active at North Reef, and in the shallows at the north side pencil reeds. Sunfish are very active throughout the lake in 6 feet of water.

WAYZATA
On Lake Minnetonka, the 15-20 foot weeds are giving up northern pike to anglers using sucker minnows. Muskie action has been best during evening hours. Sunfish are at the weed edges, and bass are hitting spinnerbaits and plastics in the weeds.

CHISAGO CITY
Panfish and bass are biting on Chisago and South Center lakes. Sunfish can be found in the shallows, with some larger fish out at the deeper weedlines. A few walleyes are being taken during early morning hours, and right before dark. For the most fish, try leeches or fathead minnows in depths of 17-24 feet. Pike are biting on all area lakes, but especially on North Center and Chisago lakes, with a slip bobber and sucker minnow working best.

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NORTHEASTERN MINNESOTA FISHING REPORTS

DULUTH
On Lake Superior, lake trout action has been great 80-100 feet down, with fish being taken on spoons, flashers and flies. Salmon can be found 50-70 feet down. Also try downrigging 35-45 feet down in 70-80 feet of water using pink, chartreuse or pink-purple colors. Trout, salmon and walleyes are all being taken right in front of the point roughly one mile out. Walleyes are very active along the South Shore and hitting crankbaits trolled six miles out. Lots of walleye action is also being reported on Island Lake in 14-18 feet of water on jig and minnow combinations, slip bobbers and leeches, and lindy rigs with crawlers. On Fish Lake, slip bobbers and leeches worked at the 8-foot weedlines are taking walleyes, large bluegills and perch. Bass action is excellent on the inland waters, with fish hitting topwater lures–Caribou Lake recently gave up some nice 5-pound fish. Muskie action is improving–for the most fish toss bucktails towards the shallow weedlines on most area lakes, with a 54-inch fish recently pulled from Island Lake.

KABETOGAMA
Walleyes have moved out to the 18-28 foot reefs on Lakes Kabetogama and Namakan, and are hitting slip sinkers with leeches or crawlers. Lowlight hours have been best due to the recent warm temperatures. Smallmouth bass are active along the weed edges and in the open spots within the weeds. For the most fish, try surface lures or shallow-running lures. A few northern pike are being pulled from the weed edges, with the larger pike coming from deeper waters adjacent to the shallow bays on deep-diving lures and live bait rigs. And an occasional sauger is coming out of the 35- to 40-foot holes on jig and minnow combinations.

INTERNATIONAL FALLS
On Rainy Lake, walleye anglers are catching fish in 18-20 feet of water during late morning and early evening hours. The areas most mentioned are Shorty’s Reef, Cranberry Island, Lost Bay, Saginaw Bay, and the area just above the Ranier Rapids in Sand Bay. Minnows, crawlers and leeches are all producing fish. Smallmouth bass are active in the deeper waters. Large northern pike are reported to be very aggressive at the weedy edges of the bays. Rainy River anglers are pulling walleyes and smallmouth bass from the International Dam.

GRAND RAPIDS
Northern pike are hitting large suckers and Mepps spinners at the weeds of most area lakes. Bass action has been good in the Scenic State Park area. For the most fish, try plastic worms or spinnerbaits on Spider, Balsam, Turtle and Northstar lakes. Crappie action has been best on the smaller area lakes, especially close to the weed edges at dusk. Stay mobile until you locate fish, and then anchor and cast.

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NORTHCENTRAL/WEST MINNESOTA FISHING REPORTS

BAUDETTE
On Lake of the Woods, the Northwest Angle and Islands area is giving up walleyes on minnows, leeches and crawlers worked in the deep water holes. The sand points along the west and east side of Garden Island are also producing good numbers of fish. Many charter captains are now downrigging in roughly 30 feet of water. Traditionally, fishing is best this week around the Sisters, Knight and Bridges islands. Along the South Shore, anglers are beginning to pull in trophy-sized walleyes off the rock reefs and rubble piles. Areas just off of Pine Island are giving up lots of nice, eating-sized walleyes to anglers jig fishing with worm harnesses and leeches. Smallmouth bass and northern pike action has been excellent in all of the tributaries leading to the Rainy River. Bullhead fishing has been exciting since these fish will eat nearly anything thrown their way. For the most action, try a one-inch crayfish that has been crushed to produce more scent.

BLACKDUCK
Walleyes are coming from 14-20 feet of water on Blackduck Lake. Panfish are active in the shallows of North and South Twin lakes. Large northern pike are being pulled from Upper Red Lake–for the most fish, work a spinnerbait at the 3- to 4-foot weeds, or in the breaks found in 5-6 feet of water.

BEMIDJI
Walleyes are hitting #7, #9 and #11 shad raps after dark in 6-10 feet of water on Lakes Bemidji and Plantagenet. Muskie action has improved, with a 53-inch fish recently pulled from Lake Bemidji. Panfish are active throughout the area. For some great bass action, cast a topwater lure during early morning hours.

BENA
On Lake Winnibigoshish, the mayfly hatch has tapered off and the walleyes are once again feeding on minnows. For the most fish, try a roach rig and 5- to 7-foot leader with a leech or nightcrawler. Some anglers are also having success pulling shad raps and taildancers in depths of 7-9 feet, especially in and around the cabbage beds. Some of the areas to check out include the North Humps, Long Bar, Center Bar, and the river channel off Tamarack Point. Many northern pike, weighing 4- to 7-pounds, are coming from the weeds at Stony Point, the Duck Houses near Richard’s Townsite, Sugar Bay, and the weedbeds off of the Highbanks and at Bowens Flats. Some of the better techniques include free-lining sucker minnows, jigs tipped with a small sucker or larger shiner minnow, and speed-trolling rattling raps along the weedbeds along the North Shore. And there have been recent reports of large bass in the 20- to 23-inch class coming from Big and Little Cutfoot Sioux, the Third River, and Tamarack Bay areas.

WALKER
On Leech Lake, walleye action has been best using jigs tipped with minnows or leeches at Walker Bay, Gary’s Reef and Sand Point. A few good reports are coming from anglers fishing at night with slip bobbers and leeches, although most walleyes have not been slot fish. For bluegills, hit 10 feet of water at Kabekona Bay. Muskie anglers are having the most success, with multiple sightings and lots of releases being reported.

HACKENSACK
Walleyes are being taken by trolling crawlers, leeches, and floating raps at night. Both 6 feet of water and depths of 30 feet are producing fish. Sunfish action has been great, with a 15-ounce fish reported this past week. Waxworms and small leeches are taking the most fish. Many nice bass are coming in on live bait, as well as plastics, such as power worms and tube jigs. Head to Pleasant, Ten Mile and Birch lakes for a nice mix of fish.

PARK RAPIDS
Walleyes are biting at the outside weed edges in 12-14 feet of water on Fish Hook and Big Sand lakes. Panfish are active on the lower Crow Wing lakes–hit 12-15 feet of water using a 2-inch powergrub, or 16-ounce jig tipped with a minnow for numbers of fish. A few muskies are coming out of Big Mantrap Lake, and bass are aggressively hitting plastics on most area lakes.

DETROIT LAKES
Walleyes have become more active, and anglers are having success using jigs tipped with minnows and leeches at the mid-lake humps. On cloudy and windy days, concentrate on depths of 15-18 feet, and if sunny, hit 22-30 feet of water. Big Cormorant, Lizzie, White Earth, Strawberry, Lida, Island, Round, Many Point and Big Detroit lakes are all producing a few fish. Large bluegills can be found at the deepwater cabbage and weedlines, with crappies being taken here as well. Bass action remains strong, with good numbers of fish coming from the deep weedlines and deep weedy humps on plastic worms and tubes. Northern pike action is picking up, and fish are hitting trolled spinners and sucker minnows–the deeper waters hold the largest fish. And muskie action is improving on Pelican, Beers and Detroit lakes.

BATTLE LAKE
A few walleye are being pulled from the flats of Battle Lake at 9 p.m. Panfish are active in the weeds of most area lakes, and hitting leeches and crappie minnows. Northern pike anglers are having success trolling sucker minnows along the weeds. Bass action has been great using topwater lures, such as frogs, in the weeds. And a 52-inch muskie was recently caught and released while trolling Battle Lake.

ALEXANDRIA
Walleyes are active during early morning and evening hours. Anglers are having success trolling rapalas on Lake Miltona. On Lake Reno, try a lindy rig and leech for the most fish. And northland thumper jigs are also producing a mixed bag of fish on most area lakes. Muskies are becoming more active on Lake Miltona. Sunnies and crappies can be found in depths of 15-18 feet in the cabbage weeds using white Mr. Twisters, beetle spins, or road runner jigs with a small spinner. For large bass, hit the 16- to 18-foot weed edges.

STARBUCK
On Lake Minnewaska, sunfish are hitting small leeches and waxworms in 12-14 feet of water. Hit similar depths using crappie minnows for the crappies. Bass have moved to the 12- to 14-foot weed edges, and are hitting dark-colored plastic worms. Walleyes are in 25-28 feet of water hitting lindy rigs and spinners tipped with nightcrawlers or leeches.

BRAINERD
The recent warm temperatures have caused bass to become extremely active, and northern pike action has also increased. Several large northern pike were taken this week from Whitefish and Gull lakes.

CROSSLAKE
Walleye anglers are finding fish along the weedlines in 18-20 feet of water. Try lindy rigs tipped with leeches, or nightcrawlers on a spinner or 6- to 8-foot floating snell for the most fish. Northern pike continue to be found in the weeds and along the weeds. Minnows on spinner rigs worked along the edge should provide plenty of action. Bass are also active in the weeds, and hitting surface lures or weedless worm rigs. Crappies and sunnies can be found suspended over 24-28 feet of water, 14 feet down. The best approach has been a small jig tipped with a minnow or crawler.

NISSWA
Anglers are having fun with all of the bass, northern pike and panfish action. For numbers of bass, pitch a jig and worm at the weedlines found in depths of 12-16 feet. Dark plastics, such as 7-inch worms with mushroom jigheads, are also working well. On calm days, try a buzz bait or topwater plug. Northern pike are active in similar locations, and are hitting jigs and spinners tipped with a minnow. Big-bladed inline mepps spinners are also producing fish. A good crappie bite has developed during evening hours in the last 10 days–slowly troll a Northland thumper jig in 12-14 foot depths for some good action. And for a few walleyes, hit 25-40 foot depths during morning hours, or 15-20 feet of water during evening hours. At night, anglers are having success with a lighted bobber and tail-hooked minnow or leech.

ISLE
On Lake Mille Lacs, some walleyes are being taken during early morning and late evening hours. The day bite might be good but few are venturing out during the recent warm spell–hit the mud flats such as Seven-Mile, the Needle, and the Boot for the most action during the day. The Highway Bar also had a decent daytime bite. Some of the methods producing fish include spinners tipped with crawlers or rainbow chubs, floating snells and leeches, and deep-running crankbaits. Towards evening, anchor at your favorite reef and cast a leech on a slip bobber rig. Muskies are becoming more aggressive. And for some non-stop smallmouth bass action, hit 3-8 feet of water using plastic grubs at Gull or Hawkbill reefs.

The following is a list of recent, significant sightings:

A potential first state record BROWN PELICAN was discovered in southwestern Minnesota on July 16th, and the bird was still present all day Sunday, July 17th. Peder Svingen and Anthony Hertzel found it at Little Spirit Lake,just north of the Iowa border and southwest of the town of Jackson. The bird was first seen July 14th by Ed Thelen at the north end of Spirit Lake in Iowa, just south of Jackson County Road 2. Recently, it has more consistently been seen at the Little Spirit Lake location. The best place to view the pelican is from the boat launch at the north end of Little Spirit Lake. At the dock, look southward to where the bird has often roosted just off the penninsula. If necessary, you can also check from the home of Linda Fries who lives on the east side of Little Spirit Lake. At the point where Jackson County Road 2 turns north from the Iowa border on the southeast side of the lake, continue west a short distance to the first road that branches to the north. Turn here and drive north about one-half mile to Fire Call #70423 on the left. You may park in the driveway but stay well off to side. Walk around the house to the right and out on the dock. The bird has been seen roosting on the rocks about 200 yards to the west.

Also of note was the BLACK-HEADED GULL that has been seen at both locations. Though found in this general vicinity on eleven previous occasions, this is the first summer occurrence.

The following is a list of recent, significant sightings:

A WHITE-WINGED DOVE appeared at the Watson’s family farm in Grand Marais, in Cook County, on July 10th and it has been present every day since. Specific directions have not been provided, so please contact the Watsons for further information at 218-387-1484. There have been six accepted records of White-Winged Dove in Minnesota dating back to 1985, and this is the second report this year.

Shorebirds reported by Steve Weston on July 7th included LESSER YELLOWLEGS, SOLITARY SANDPIPER, SEMIPALMATED SANDPIPER, and SHORT-BILLED DOWITCHER. These birds were seen at Mud Lake along the Ravena Trail just southeast of Hastings, in Dakota County.

A pair of WILLETS was seen by Craig Mandel on July 12th at the Hills Sewage Ponds, located along Rock County Road 6, one mile south of Highway 270.

The following is a list of recent, significant sightings:

Jesse Ellis reported a mated pair of CLARK’S GREBES with their young on July 5th. The birds were on the Douglas County side of Lake Osakis, at the boat launch along Douglas County Road 10, roughly two miles east of County Road 3.

There was an interesting sighting of a SOLITARY SANDPIPER reported by Craig Mandel over the July 4th weekend. He found it at the Big Falls sewage ponds in Koochiching County.

On July 5th, Chris Benson found a EURASIAN COLLARED-DOVE near the First National Bank in the town of Plainview, in Wabasha County. The bird was easily seen from the car wash at the corner of West Broadway and 1st Street.

On July 6th, Jim Ryan reported a possible NORTHERN MOCKINGBIRD in St. Paul, in Ramsey County, at the northwest corner of the Cretin/Vandalia exit off Interstate 94.

And on the 4th, Emily Hutchins reported a possible GREAT-TAILED GRACKLE northeast of Mazaska Lake in Rice County, which is one-half mile south of the intersection of Fairbanks Avenue and 135th Street West. Denny Martin reported a Great-Tailed Grackle at the Somsen Wildlife Management Area, at the junction of State Highway 14 and Brown County Road 12, just west of New Ulm. Another was at the Rosenau-Lambrecht Wildlife Management Area roughly two miles west of this location on Highway 14.

The Fishing Hot Spot this week is the city of ONAMIA, where good numbers of walleyes, northern pike and bass are being pulled from Lake Mille Lacs.

Anglers may obtain fishing licenses 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, by dialing 1-888-665-4236, or accessing http://www.wildlifelicense.com/mn/index.html And, please consult Minnesota DNR rules and regulations for slot limits on specific lakes.

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NORTHEASTERN MINNESOTA FISHING REPORT

DULUTH
On Lake Superior, anglers are catching a mixed bag of lakers and chinook salmon on pink and purple spoons worked 40-60 feet down. The salmon are weighing up to 10-pounds, and the lakers are running 3- to 6-pounds. Walleyes can be found in the harbor using gold or chartreuse crawler harnesses. Lake trout are being pulled from the area near the Knife River on purple spoons worked 6-80 feet down in 120 feet of water. Island Lake is giving up nice numbers of smaller walleyes in 25 foot depths and up. Walleye action has been good on Fish Lake in depths of 12 feet, with slip bobbers and leeches taking the most fish. The St. Louis River is producing some nice walleyes on crawler harnesses. And the small trout streams have been good for numbers of brook trout.

KABETOGAMA
On Lakes Kabetogama and Namakan, walleye anglers are finding fish in the shallows, and on up to 28 feet deep. The windward sides of the shorelines and islands with soft bottoms, either sand, muck or rubble, seem to be producing best. The baitfish remain in shallows chasing mayflies, and lots of walleyes can be found nearby. The best approach has been a leech or nightcrawler on a slip sinker rig and plain snell–a spinner rig is also working well. During evening hours, try trolling or pitching shad raps into the shallows just outside the weedbeds. Expect the walleyes to move out to the 24-30 foot reefs as the water warms and the mayfly hatch ends. Northern pike are hitting hammered spinnerbaits, as well as stickbaits with large minnows, especially in Daily, Nebraska and Blind Ash bays. These bays each offer weedbeds with waterflows. Smallmouth bass are at the rocky shorelines and rocky reefs. For the most fish, work small Mepps spinners and crayfish baits in depths of 2-12 feet.

INTERNATIONAL FALLS
On Rainy Lake, walleye are moving to the reefs on the east end of the lake. At present, the bite remains good on the Sand Bay end of the lake, with anglers having success at Three Sisters Island, Franson’s Island and Eight Mile Island. For the most fish, try a large white twistertail or a rapala. Bass anglers are taking smallmouth bass from the shallows, with fish starting to head for deeper waters. Large northern pike can be found at the edges of the weed beds using large flashy lures. The Rainy River, the Big Fork and Little Fork Rivers have been excellent for smallmouth bass and walleyes, however anglers are having to cope with some high water levels and strong current.

GRAND RAPIDS
Walleye anglers are taking fish by slowly working crawlers and leeches along the breaks. The best locations have been Bowstring, Jessie and Pokegama lakes. Crappies are being pulled Sugar, Little Cutfoot and Spider lakes. Northern pike are hitting spoons and spinners on Balsam, Northstar, Rice and Jay Gould lakes. Bass anglers are having success using plastic worms and grubs. For numbers of smallmouth bass, hit Turtle, Northstar and Pokegama lakes.

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NORTHCENTRAL/WEST MINNESOTA FISHING REPORT

BAUDETTE
On Lake Of The Woods, fishing has been very good along the South Shore near the rocky reefs found in 24-30 feet of water, especially at Zippel Bay. Anglers are taking fish by jig fishing with leeches. Walleye anglers report taking quite a few northern pike as well. Some extremely large muskies are being reported around the Northwest Angle and Islands area, with fish coming in on white and yellow spinnerbaits worked in 2-6 feet of water. Good numbers of eating-sized walleyes are being pulled from depths of 8-17 feet around Oak and Garden islands. Although water levels on the Rainy River remain high and the water clarity remains low, smallmouth bass and northern pike catches have been excellent–for the most fish, hit the inlets and bays of the tributaries leading to the Rainy River.

BEMIDJI
Walleyes are coming out of 15-20 feet of water on leeches and crawlers, especially on Lake Plantagenet. Area lakes are giving up muskie, with several 50-inch fish recently reported. Panfish action remains steady in the shallows. Perch action has been good on Lake Bemidji, with walleye anglers taking plenty of fish. Bass action remains steady in the weeds.

BENA
On Lake Winnibigoshish, walleye action has been excellent using leeches and crawlers at the deep water humps and bars. Begin by locating fish using your electronics at the humps just out from the Highbanks, and at Long, Moses and Center bars, as well as the north end of Bena Bar. Numerous fish in the 20- to 28-inch range were recently caught-and-released. Northern pike have become more active with the new weed growth, especially around Third River Bay, Stony Point, Sugar Bay, and the weedbeds off Richards Townsite. Nice-size bluegills, measuring 9- to 10-inches, are being pulled from the weedlines.

PARK RAPIDS
Walleye anglers are picking up a few fish in 16-20 feet of water on the reefs. Lindy rigs tipped with a leech or redtail chub seem to be working best. Sunfish are coming in on waxworms worked on the lower Crow Wing lakes. Large bluegills have completed their spawn, and are moving to the deeper weed edges found in depths of 11-14 feet. Crappies are hitting small jigs and power grubs, with fish found suspended 10-12 feet down in 16 feet of water.

DETROIT LAKES
Walleyes are coming out of Big Cormorant, Floyd, Cotton, Shell, Height of Land, Island, Little Bemidji, Elbow and Round lakes. Jigs and minnows are the best approach, however lindy rigs and spinners tipped with leeches or crawlers are also working well. Hit the sharp breaks and deep weedlines for the most fish. The largemouth bass bite remains excellent for anglers using jigs and pigs, tubes, plastic worms, and spinnerbaits at the deep weed edges, inside weedlines, and at the docks. Large bluegills and crappies have been most active at the deep cabbage. Large northern pike can be found along the deep weeds. The muskie bite is heating up on Detroit Lake.

PELICAN RAPIDS
Sunfish action has been good on Prairie, Lida, Lizzie, Sallie and Melissa lakes at the deeper weed edges. Walleyes are hitting crawlers and leeches in 30 feet on Lake Lida. Northern pike are extremely active along the weedlines, and hitting trolled spoons. A good bass bite is being reported in the shallows on spinnerbaits and buzzbaits early in the day. The muskie bite is improving on Pelican Lake.

ALEXANDRIA
Walleyes have moved into deeper waters–start in 30 feet of water, and work your way out towards 50 feet of water on Miltona and Ida lakes. For the most fish, try leeches or crawlers on a lindy rig and six-foot snell with a spinner or float. The panfish bite has been good at the weedlines of Le Homme Dieu and Darling lakes, with some large fish being reported. Northern pike are active at the weedlines, and hitting spoons, spinnerbaits, and sucker minnows under a bobber. Bass action has been best in 1-8 foot depths.

STARBUCK
On Lake Minnewaska, panfish are hitting small jigs and slip bobbers in 10-12 feet of water. The crappie bite has been good along the south end, roughly 6 feet down in 12 feet of water, with crappie minnows and flu-flus working best. Northern pike anglers are having success using red-eye wigglers speed-trolled off the bulrushes along the north end of the lake. For walleyes, hit 25 foot depths off the points using crawlers and leeches on spinners. And there has been a good bass bite during morning hours in the bulrushes and around the docks. As the sun gets higher and the fish move deeper, switch from spinnerbaits to plastics.

BRAINERD
Bass and northern pike are active on Hubert, Edwards and North Long lakes. For bass, hit the second weedline found in 13-17 feet of water using drop-shot jigs, or jig and worm combinations. Large northern pike are being pulled from the outside weedlines on white spinnerbaits, and sucker minnows on spinner-rigs. Hit 17-20 feet of water on Lake Edwards for the most fish. One angler recently landed a 15-pound northern pike, with pike action expected to improve due to current warm temperatures. Sunnies and crappies continue to bite in 8-12 feet of water. Try worms during the day for sunfish, and minnows during evening hours for crappies. A good crappie bite is being reported on Pelican and North Long lakes, as well as the smaller lakes around the Whitefish area. The larger bluegills are coming from the sunken islands that top off in depths of 14 to 18 feet. And for a few walleyes, hit Gull and Pelican lakes, especially on overcast and/or windy days. The best approach has been a lindy rig and redtail chub worked slowly along the weed edges, with a 31-inch fish recently caught-and-released on Whitefish Lake. Also try the 20-30 foot reefs.

ISLE
On Lake Mille Lacs, decent numbers of fish are being taken from the mud flats during the day. For the most fish, try a crawler on a gold, copper or pink spinner, or slowly work a leech and floating rig, especially at Seven Mile and Center bars. The deep gravel bite has been sporadic–during evening hours, try your favorite rock reef using a slip bobber and leech, tight to the structure, in depths of 6-28 feet. Smallmouth bass have moved into depths of 3-8 feet, and are hitting small crankbaits and plastic grubs. Hawkbill Reef has been excellent for smallmouth bass action. Northern pike are hitting suckers drifted under a bobber, especially at Cove and Vineland. And for non-stop action, toss a lure into the slop and weeds for numbers of largemouth bass.

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TWIN CITIES VICINITY FISHING REPORT

ST. CLOUD
The Mississippi River remains high, however walleye anglers are having success below the dams when using jig and minnow combinations. Smallmouth bass are being taken by throwing rapalas into the current breaks. Carp anglers are having a blast using a crawler and plain hook at the bottom, with fish weighing 20-pounds. The same technique is producing some nice channel cats in the 2- to 10-pound range, especially below the 10th Street Dam.

EDEN VALLEY
Panfish are hitting waxies on a plain hook in roughly 7 feet of water on Pleasant, Pearl, Rice, Horseshoe and Cedar Island lakes. Crappies can be found in depths of 15 feet using a flu-flu jig and crappie minnow at the points. Walleyes are active in 15 foot depths on Lake Koronis, and taking lindy rigs tipped with leeches or fathead minnows. A few walleyes are also being pulled from 24-28 feet of water on leeches. Northern pike are cruising the weed edges of Rice and Browns lakes, and hitting sucker minnows under bobbers, as well as live bait rigs in 12-15 feet of water. Smallmouth bass are taking topwater lures, leeches and crawlers at the lily pads and other thick weed beds during lowlight hours. Dock anglers are having success using plastic worms, and jig-n-pig combinations.

ANNANDALE
On Clearwater Lake, sunfish are hitting waxworms at the 10-foot weedlines. Crappies are mixed in with sunfish in depths of 10-15 feet. Schools of crappies can be found suspended during the day in deeper waters. Bass are at the weedlines hitting leeches and plastic worms. For northern pike, try a sucker minnow under a bobber in 10-15 feet of water, with numerous 2- to 4-pounders being taken. Walleyes are hitting leeches along the bottom of the weedlines. Some anglers report catching larger fish on lindy rigs and spinner rigs worked in depths of 26 feet of water during the day.

WACONIA
On Lake Waconia, northern pike are active at the deep weed edges and up in the weed tops, with a 13-pound fish recently reported. Muskies are hitting bucktails and other hair baits. Sunfish continue to guard their nests. Crappies have moved to the deeper weed edges. For a few walleye, hit the deeper reefs and weed edges during the day.

WAYZATA
On Lake Minnetonka, bass are very active in the weeds, with black plastics taking the most fish. Walleyes are sluggish during the day, and most fish have not been feeding until after 1:00 a.m. Panfish action remains steady, with sunnies and a few crappies being pulled from depths of 10 feet or less. Northern pike are aggressive in the weeds, and a few muskies are coming in on large plastics.

CHISAGO CITY
Little Lake is producing numbers of panfish, and Croon Lake has been good for both sunnies and crappies. Northern pike are coming out of Sunrise Lake. And for numbers of bass, hit Chisago Lake.

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SOUTHERN MINNESOTA FISHING REPORT

MONTEVIDEO
Anglers are enjoying the exciting channel cat action on the Minnesota River, especially between Montevideo and Granite Falls. Water levels are just starting to drop on the river. On Lake Lac Qui Parle, the walleye bite has slowed due to high water.

ORTONVILLE
On Big Stone Lake, a few walleyes are coming in on slip bobber rigs worked at the rock piles at night, with an occasional fish taken from the docks. And a few anglers have had success late at night using bottom bouncers and spinners, or crankbaits down the center of the lake.

In general, July is an excellent time for avid and novice birders to check-out the Minnesota River Dam in Granite Falls, the dam near Watson, and the spillway on Marsh Lake near Appleton to see American White Pelicans. These pelicans put on quite a display wile fishing, and are very graceful in flight. For more on this area, visit www.prairiewaters.com

The following is a list of recent, significant sightings:

The ROCK WREN is still being seen at Felton Prairie in Clay County. Chet Meyers most recently saw the wren on June 25th. From Felton, travel south on State Highway 9, east to the end of the pavement on Clay County Road 108, and then turn left at the gravel pit entrance. Look for the wren near rock pile #6002.

The PRAIRIE WARBLER was still present at Ritter Farm Park near Lakeville in Dakota County as of June 28th according to Dan & Sandy Thimgan.

On June 28th, the following shorebirds were reported by Ben Fritchman from Agassiz National Wildlife Refuge in Marshall County: one very late WHITE-RUMPED SANDPIPER, LEAST SANDPIPER, DUNLIN, LESSER YELLOWLEGS, GREATER YELLOWLEGS, SEMIPALMATED PLOVER, and MARBLED GODWIT. These birds were in a field one mile south of Marshall County Road 7, and roughly six miles east of the headquarters building.

In Aitkin County, Butch Ukura found a GREAT GRAY OWL about two miles west of Jacobson on State Highway 200 on June 26th.

On the 25th, John Hockema reported a HENSLOW’S SPARROW from Chester Woods, a county park along U.S. Highway 14, about five miles east of Rochester in Olmsted County. Watch for the bird from the trail that travels northeast from the parking area near the fishing pier. Henslow’s Sparrows were also found June 26th by Pete Hoeger at Schaefer’s Prairie south of U.S. Highway 212 in southern McLeod County.

The Fishing Hot Spot this week is the city of INTERNATIONAL FALLS, where good numbers of walleyes are being pulled from Rainy Lake and Rainy River.

Anglers may obtain fishing licenses 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, by dialing 1-888-665-4236, or accessing http://www.wildlifelicense.com/mn/index.html And, please consult Minnesota DNR rules and regulations for slot limits on specific lakes.

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NORTHERN MINNESOTA FISHING REPORTS

DULUTH
Walleyes are very active on Fish and Island lakes in 5-6 feet of water, with crawlers and leeches under slip bobbers working best. Also try a crawler harness 20 feet down. Grand Lake is producing good numbers crappies–fish are averaging 12- to 14-inches. On Caribou Lake, large numbers of nice-sized panfish are being taken. Northern pike are being pulled from Caribou and Grand lakes. On Lake Superior, walleyes are biting in the harbor, from the Bong Bridge down to the lake. For the most fish, try crawler harnesses or crankbaits at the edge of the channels. And Lake Superior anglers report many salmon and trout coming in on spoons and stickbaits worked 40-60 feet down.

KABETOGAMA
On Lakes Kabetogama and Namakan, anglers are taking good numbers of walleyes measuring over 14-inches. Most fish can be found in 18-28 feet of water on overcast days, and in depths of 8 feet at the weeds during late evening hours. The current mayfly hatch may result in some finicky walleye for the next few days. Smallmouth bass are chasing crayfish, and hitting both live and artificial baits. For the most fish, try pitching rebel crayfish, heddon torpedoes or rapala shads against the rocks or rocky shorelines. Northern pike should settle into a summer pattern this week–try large minnows under slip bobbers, trolled deep-runners, or pitched stickbaits for the most fish.

INTERNATIONAL FALLS
On Rainy Lake, walleyes are biting in 12-15 feet of water and hitting minnows and nightcrawlers on jigs. Crappies are active at the windward sides of the bays. Northern pike are at the emerging weed edges. Anglers also report a good smallmouth bass bite. On the Rainy River, fishing has been exceptional once you learn the current. Heavy rains have led to high water levels and launching a boat can be difficult. Some anglers are bypassing the launch, and enjoying great fishing from shore.

GRAND RAPIDS
Smallmouth bass action has been great on Pokegama and Trout lakes, with fish hitting crankbaits and leeches at the rocky bars. Largemouth bass are hitting surface lures and Kelly worms. Walleyes are active at the bars, and hitting crawler and leech rigs at the deeper, inside bends. Northstar and Turtle lakes continue to produce many nice-sized walleyes and smallmouth bass. Muskies action is picking up on Northstar and Deer lakes–the best approach has been a surface lure or an inline spinner. Crappies and bluegills are leaving their nests for deeper waters.

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NORTHCENTRAL/WEST MINNESOTA FISHING REPORTS

BAUDETTE
On Lake of the Woods, walleye action has been excellent along the South Shore. Anglers are pulling in some good-sized walleyes from the sand points and shorelines where large schools of walleyes are congregating. The best action has been in 24-26 foot depths, with fish chasing minnows, crawlers and leeches on hammered gold spinners. Anglers are also enjoying all of the northern pike action around Bostic and Zippel bays–one party caught 40 northerns in one day. Jumbo perch and smallmouth bass are also biting at Zippel Bay. At the Northwest Angle and Islands area, walleye fishing remains exceptional–hit Bridges, Garden and Knight Islands using gold spinners with red beads and a worm for the most fish. The Rainy River has also been great for walleyes. The better locations include around the Baudette International Airport, and one mile east of Baudette. And northern pike and smallmouth bass are coming from the bay at the confluence of the Rapid and Rainy rivers.

BLACKDUCK
Walleyes are hitting lindy rigs with small leeches or crawlers in 14-20 feet of water on Blackduck Lake. A few anglers are also having success trolling crankbaits. Panfish are being pulled from the Twin Lakes. And nearby, Upper Red Lake is producing some nice-sized pike along the shallow water shorelines. For the most fish, try a large bucktail, spoon or crankbait.

BEMIDJI
Walleye anglers are taking fish from 14-18 feet of water on leeches worked on most area lakes. Switch to shad raps after dark. Good walleye lakes include Plantagenet, Andrusia, Kitchi and Bemidji. Muskies can be found using topwater lures and bucktails on Plantagenet, Bemidji and Big lakes. Panfish are hitting crawlers and small crappies minnows on Grace, Midge, Turtle, Sand, Movil, Kitchi, Pimushe, Portage, Bowstring and Grant lakes. And bass are hitting worms, buzzbaits and spinnerbaits on all area lakes. On Cass Lake, walleyes are being pulled from Allen’s Bay, Town Bay, and the humps just south of Star Island on crawlers and leeches. The main lake has been best at night, with thill-lighted bobbers and a leech taking the most fish.

BENA
On Lake Winnibigoshish, limits of eating-sized walleyes are coming from the deep breaks on the main bars such as Horseshoe, Moses, Eelpout and Main, as well as some of the humps. It has been key to stay at the edge of the structure and not on top. Try leeches and nightcrawlers on a roach rig and a 4- to 6-foot leader for the most fish–red and orange hooks are currently working best. Anglers are catching and releasing quite a few large, slot walleyes. Some fish are coming from the weeds, but only when the wind blows. Large bluegills are being pulled from the weeds on Big Cutfoot Sioux. Northern pike action should soon improve. A few nice muskies are being reported.

WALKER
On Leech Lake, muskie and northern pike have been very active. Good numbers of perch and panfish are roaming the bays. The humps of Walker Bay have been best for walleyes. The main lake has been good for nice-sized walleyes, especially at twilight. And the best muskie bite is yet to come.

HACKENSACK
Walleye fishing is in full force, with leeches and crawlers trolled at night taking numbers of fish. Bass are very active, and hitting powerbait and worms. Bass are starting to move into the deeper waters. The sunnies are still in the shallows–for the most fish, try small jigs tipped with crappie minnows or small leeches.

PARK RAPIDS
Walleyes are very active on Potato and Big Sand lakes, with fish pulled from 14- and 30-foot depths on leeches and crawlers. Northern pike are hitting sucker minnows worked in 14 feet of water on Big Mantrap Lake. Fish Hook Lake has been great for bluegill action in 12 feet of water. Crappies can be found suspended in 20 feet of water on Big Mantrap Lake.

DETROIT LAKES
Walleyes are hitting lindy rigs tipped with crawlers and leeches at the deep weed edges out to 30 feet. The best locations include Little Bemidji, Elbow, Juggler, Pickerel, Cotton, Island and Shell lakes. Ottertail Lake is starting to give up fish on rigs and crawlers worked in depths of 15-19 feet along the breaks and humps. Largemouth bass are hitting topwater lures early in the morning, and jigs and tubes off the deep breaks and points later in the day. Crappies and large bluegills continue to be found off the deep cabbage. Northern pike action is picking up, with jigs and minnows working best along the deep water weeds.

PELICAN RAPIDS
Walleyes are taking leeches and nightcrawlers from 20 feet of water on lakes Lida, Sallie, Lizzie and Round. Large walleyes are active on Prairie Lake, with a 6-pounder recently reported. Sunfish remain on their beds. And for some good bass action, hit the shallow 5- to 6-foot weedlines on Prairie Lake.

BATTLE LAKE
Walleyes can be found in 20-35 feet of water using a floater and leech very slowly. On Ottertail Lake, hit the shallow flats at night. Last weekend’s walleye tournament on Battle Lake produced more large fish than numbers. Panfish are actively hitting small leeches on Stalker, Dead, Clitherall and Battle lakes. For crappies, hit Battle Lake. Muskies are becoming more active. Buzzbaits and spinner blades worked in the weeds have been great for bass. Northern pike can also be found in the weeds using large sucker minnows.

ALEXANDRIA
Panfish are biting on the Le Homme Dieu Chain in 8-12 feet of water, with waxworms and leeches working well. Bass are deeper at the weed edges and hitting jig-n-pigs and crankbaits during early morning hours. Walleyes are taking leeches and crawlers at the 20- to 24-foot weedlines. Try Miltona and Ida lakes during evening hours for the most fish. Lobster, Oscar and Miltona lakes are good for muskies, wiht fish hitting bucktails, suicks, and large plastics. For northern pike, try a spinnerbait at the weedlines on most area lakes.

STARBUCK
On Lake Minnewaska, walleyes are in 18-20 feet of water hitting leeches, nightcrawlers and spinners. Hit the points, and just in front of the High School for the most fish. Numbers of sunfish are being pulled from 10-12 feet of water on leeches or waxworms on small jigs. Lake Emily is giving up walleyes on shallow-running crankbaits. Bass are active during early morning hours at the docks and lakeside edges of the bulrushes, and hitting spinnerbaits, and leeches under bobbers.

CROSSLAKE
Whitefish and Crosslakes are producing walleyes in 18-24 feet of water on leeches and crawlers. Anglers are having success at dusk while trolling on Whitefish over 40-60 feet of water. Bass are active in the weeds and hitting surface lures and weedless worm rigs. Crappies and sunnies can be found along the 12-foot weedlines, with minnows and waxworms on small jigs working best. Northern pike are hitting spinner rigs and large pike minnows at the weedlines and drop-offs.

NISSWA
Bass fishing has been excellent on many area lakes, with large 15- to 18-inch fish hitting new X-Raps and power worms. Gull Lake is producing walleyes at the weedlines. Pelican and North Long lakes are producing fish on lindy rigs tipped with redtail chubs or leeches worked in 16-24 feet of water. Northern pike are hitting spinners and minnows on the Gull Lake Chain, Lake Edwards and Lake Hubert. For crappies and sunnies, hit 7-10 foot depths at the cabbage weeds.

ISLE
On Lake Mille Lacs, good numbers of daytime walleyes continue to be pulled from the mud flats on gold, copper or pink spinners tipped with crawlers. Also try a leech and floating rig worked very slowly at Seven Mile and Center Bars. The deep gravel has been sporadic–for the most fish, try a crawler and spinner. The evening bite has been excellent for numbers of fair-sized walleye, with slip bobbers and leeches working best at your favorite rock reef. These evening fish are active in depths of 6-28 feet, tight to the structure, after 8 p.m. Northern pike are hitting suckers under a bobber at Cove and Vineland. For smallmouth bass, hit 3-8 feet of water using small crankbaits and plastic grubs, especially at Hawkbill Reef.

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TWIN CITIES FISHING REPORTS

ST. CLOUD
Northern pike and bass action has been good on Grand, Pearl, Pleasant, Long and Clearwater lakes. Panfish are active on Pearl, Fish Trap, Big Fish and Maple lakes, in the shallows and 12 feet deep. Mississippi River levels are dropping, and walleyes and crappies are active after dark.

EDEN VALLEY
Bass are active on Koronis, Horseshoe and Cedar Island lakes at the weeds. Walleyes are being pulled from 25-27 feet of water on leeches and crawlers worked on Lake Koronis. Crappies can be found on Rice Lake. The Horseshoe Chain is giving up both crappies and sunnies. Northern pike are hitting daredevils and sucker minnows on most area lakes.

ANNANDALE
Clearwater Lake is producing sunfish at the 10-foot weedlines on ice fly jigs tipped with angle worms and crawlers. Crappies have moved out deeper, but at sunset hit the 15-foot weedlines. Also check under the docks that have a deep drop-off. Northern pike are hitting sucker minnows under bobbers at the 10- to 15-foot weedlines. White and yellow spinners are also working, but live bait seems to be best. Bass can be found using plastics in the shallows and at the weedline breaks. For a few walleyes, try leeches in 15 feet of water, with yellow or green lindy rig and spinner rig set-ups working best.

WACONIA
On Lake Waconia, some very nice sunnies and crappies can be found in the shallows out to 12 feet deep depending on the time of day and weather. Largemouth bass are very active at the pencil reeds and weed edges.

WAYZATA
On Lake Minnetonka, the deeper 22- to 28-foot weedlines are producing walleyes, especially during early morning and late evening hours. The best approach has been a crawler and spinner, with an orange or chartreuse blade. Bass are in the weeds, and hitting Texas rigs, plastics and jigs at the outside weed edges. Northern pike have been very active, with spinnerbaits and small sucker minnows taking fish from 12-15 foot depths. Sunnies are in 3-5 feet of water hitting small jigs and waxworms. A few crappies are being pulled from 12-14 feet of water in the smaller bays. For muskies, use small bucktails during lowlight hours on Independence and Minnetonka lakes.

CHISAGO CITY
Crappies can be found suspended in the deep waters hitting crappie minnows and waxworms. Walleyes are in transition between hard and soft bottom areas in 18-20 feet of water. Bass fishing has been excellent, with many large fish coming in. Sunrise Lake is giving up some large northern pike.

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SOUTHERN MINNESOTA FISHING REPORTS

MANKATO
The Minnesota River is producing some very large flathead catfish–to handle these fish, use large suckers or creek chubs on a large hook with a heavy weight. Lura Lake walleyes are in the weeds hitting weedless jigs and large leeches. Lake Washington walleyes are in the 4- to 6-foot weeds taking jigs and leeches. White husky jerks are also producing fish. Sunfish are biting in Baker’s Bay and off 2nd Point. Crappies are active in depths of 18-25 feet. Bass are slamming chartreuse and white spinnerbaits on Lake Washington. For large northern pike, hit the weeds on Little Jeff Lake.

MONTEVIDEO
Fishing remains good, despite the high water levels on Lake Lac qui Parle and the Minnesota River. On Lac qui Parle, walleyes are hitting crankbaits and minnows at the Twin Bridges, and at some of the flats along the north end. The Minnesota River is giving up walleyes on jig and minnow combinations. Catfish are taking crawlers on the river.

ORTONVILLE
On Big Stone Lake, most walleyes are being caught while trolling spinners and nightcrawlers in the Sodak and Bonanza areas. The weed edges around the Islands are also producing walleyes. Crappies are extremely active throughout Artichoke Lake, with jigs and minnows worked in 5-7 feet of water taking good numbers of fish.