Leech Lake
Wow, what a week it has been with the lake changing due to mid summer water temps. Main lake we have seen mid 60's, some of the bays have had water temps in the low 70's! As a result the fish have been moving and have adapted their diet as well. Historically this time of year, it is jigs and shiners. This year, however, you can break out the rigging rods and throw a crawler or a leech. Now, jigs and shiners will still produce fish, but look to wind blown points when trying this. Rigging or jigging area worth a look would be Ottertail point, Big Hardwoods or Mounds in 8-12 FOW; on the east of the lake look to 5 mile or the Pelican island area in 8-12 FOW. If the weather holds, dust off the spinner rods as that bite will be here before you know it!!
Brainerd Lakes
Fishing in the Brainerd Lakes Area is off to a good start. Walleyes are relating to shallow sand, rock or cabbage weeds in 6-13 feet of water depending on the day and lake. Side imaging is a great tool this time of year to scope out these pods of fish before setting up on them. Keep your distance in this shallow water to avoid spooking them. Pitching a jig and shiner has been the most effective along with a jig and plastic, but look for the bobber and leech bite to kick in soon with the water temps warming and the shiner run coming to an end.
