Warmer water equals great fishing

By Ross Hagemeister, meisterguideservice.com

Fishing is in full motion in Otter Tail Lakes Country. No matter the species, there are fish to be caught. The super accelerated water warming has pushed everything into high gear—it’s been fun watching the progress unfold! The only species that needs to complete spawning is sunfish, and they should be done very soon. 

The July-like water temps and low water levels have played a big roll in good fishing, but the record temperature breaking days haven’t gone without challenges on the lake: On a physical/fitness level, keeping cool and hydrated has been tough and keeping live bait from spoiling and withering has also been a challenge. Interestingly enough, fish in the live well are doing very well, but they are warm. Some areas on lakes are prematurely green or slimy, which fouls hooks and looks unsightly. Be sure and keep the goo off your hooks and don’t drink surface water at the public access. 

Sunfish are beginning to occupy multiple zones in the lakes—both deep and shallow. Crappie are continuing to function in their summer homes so think summer patterning when you’re approaching them. Walleye can be found in nearly every zone on lakes around the county—shallow, deep, rocks, sand, clam beds, and both inside and outside weed lines. Northern Pike are still occupying weedy zones—keeping an eye and tooth on the spawning bluegills and everything else that lives in weeds. For large pike, fish the outside weed lines with big baits. Bass are getting their bass acts together, try plastics—Wacky Worming or Carolina Rigging are my favorites—and don’t exclude spinner baits, top waters/buzz baits/etc. 

It’s June and it’s time to fish in Lakes County!  Have a great week on the lakes! I love fishing!