Here is your 2018 Minnesota Fishing Opener Outlook Report
The LOA Guide Team
Well our team of fishing guides are amped up for the open water season. This year our fishing guides will cover every corner of Central Minnesota from Leech Lake, Mille Lacs, Cass Lake, Brainerd Lakes Area, Woman Lake, Hackensack, Longville, Winnibigoshish, and in between. We are busily prepping gear, getting our new boats in the water, and filling up our guide calendars with trips. As we are getting closer here is quick write up on current conditions a some little pieces of advice as Opener nears.
Leech Lake Fishing Guide Jason Freed hooked up his new Lund Pro V last week to bring back home.
We are approaching that time of year where everyone sets out in search of that fish that makes us come back each and every year the second weekend of May. 2018 is setting up to be another banner year on Leech Lake, Cass Lake, Mille Lacs, Woman, Winnibigoshish, Brainerd Lakes, and the surrounding area lakes. With us just being a few days away just a few quick reminders. Next week we will give you a few more tidbits and a current lake report. Right now most lakes are still covered but with the recent warm temps and wind combined with some rain it is sure looking like we will have Open Water.
Leech Lake - 90% ice covered but slowly going. With this warm weather, rain, and wind it is looking better and better we will be fishing Leech on Opener.
Mille Lacs - Same as Leech
Brainerd Lakes - Many smallers lakes are starting to open up. Gull is 80% ice but it is going fast as well.
Hackensack and Longville Area - Like the Brainerd area many smaller lakes are getting close to opening.
This week will be the week that lets us know how it is all going to set up for Opener.
Some helpful advice as you are getting ready and thinking about Opener:
Some of the LOA Guide Team's Favorite Early Season Jigs
- Be patient - The major lakes are going to be super busy as are the boat accesses. Be patient and don’t be afraid to lend a helping hand if something needs it at the boat access. Many of the common fishing spots will be loaded with boats as well.
- If we get bright skies and minimal wind be ready to adapt - Leech is a wind driven lake and that helps fishing alot, but when it is sunny and the wind is minimal adjusting your speed and getting more aggressive is often the key to triggering fish.
- Try to fish away from the crowds - Fish will be shallow and many boats in the same area will push fish to the outskirts of that area or look to fish common structure that just doesn’t have as many boats.
- Jigs and Jigs - Typically this time of a year it is tough to beat an 1/8th oz jig and shiner. Don’t be afraid to mix things up and try a jig and rainbow, jig and a plastic, or even a lindy rig at times.
- Have fun! - Great time of year to be on the lake, the weather is going to be amazing, and the fish should be snapping!
- Be sure to have your boat all ready to go - Make sure you have life jackets, throwable, fire extinguisher, all safety equipment, and you have ran your boat before getting to the access. Nothing is more frustrated than sitting at the landing because you forgot something or your motor won't start.
2018 Minnesota Fishing Opener
In terms of Leech Lake think about any wind driven areas will produce the best. Leech is known for going where the wind blows so wind blown shorelines, points, and neck down areas will all be good starting locations. I would key in on 6-8 feet if you have wind and may need to slide out deeper if not. Look for bait on your sonar, because most often than not you will not mark fish that shallow. Keep an keen eye on your electronics for bait fish, because there is where the walleyes will be.
Until next week
Tight Lines
LOA Guide Team
