Kabetogama/Namakan Fishing Report June 21, 2009
A beautiful week of summer weather is taking its toll on anglers this past week. Sweatshirts have given way to shorts and tank tops. Sun lotion and bug repellent have become a necessity as does lively bait.
Those people lucky enough to be on the water are reporting that the walleyes are moving to deeper water. Depths of 22 - 30' seem to be a good common denominator.
Leeches and crawlers used with slip-sinkers and bottom bouncers plus a spinner on the snell are producing catches with the most consistency.
Anglers will be competing with mayflies as they are emerging from the soft bottoms as I write.
Artificial baits can come into play at anytime--keep them near the bottom for best success.
Smallmouth action is heating up. They will respond to live bait or artificials as they are spending their time in the shallows.
Northern pike have emerged from their hiding places of late. There are many reports of pike action in shallow depths out to 12 - 15'. Lures running or jerked at a 8 - 12' range could do well.
No one's talking about crappies--maybe that's because they are probably biting since the water warmed up. Look for crappie action in shallow water--soft bottom bays near weed edges.
Enjoy the summer! Protect yourself from bright sun and skeeters and come and catch fish in beautiful Voyageurs National Park.
Have a great week!