Minnesota Fishing Report
We’ve had an exciting spring. The ice has been off the lakes for a few weeks already. Early ice off always advances fishing opportunities in Otter Tail Country. Walleye, northern pike, muskie, and bass seasons are still closed, but there are good opportunities for panfish species like crappie and sunfish. In fact, this can be one of the best times of the year to catch panfish. Sunfish and crappie seek out the warmest and quickest warming parts of the lake. As nature has it, the warmest parts of lakes in Otter Tail County are the shallows. “Shallow” water is relative. It depends what lake you’re using—not all lakes are alike. Lakes that have steep shoreline drops that tumble quickly into deep water seem to lag behind lakes that have gradual graded shorelines. And the best lakes to search out early-bird panfish are ones that have back bays—especially if they have dark bottoms and rotting vegetation which speed up water warming.
The great thing about early season panfish fishing is that they can be accessible from shore lines and everybody can participate. I happen to have some young kids that are a lot to keep track of on the boat. They can’t fall out of a boat if they are firmly standing on a bank. Bank fishing is also good practice for casting. Bank casting, in many cases requires good technique. There are obstacles like power lines, tree beaches, bushes, other anglers, bull rushes and stumps. Shoreline casting helps develop precision, distance, and control and awareness. Who knew fishing from a bank could be so meaningful? As for the set-up; all you need is a spring-bobber, a little extra weight and a hook and worm or minnow. A spring bobber is fine, as opposed to a slip-bobber, because the fish are usually very near the surface where the water is warm or will at least come to the surface. Also, the water is usually very shallow—about 1-3 feet deep. You just don’t need much line under your cork.
One fishing tip I have to add: because the fish are so shallow, they can be a bit spooky. If you know where the fish are sitting (if you can see them), then try to cast well beyond their position, and then slowly reel your lure to where they are sitting. It won’t take long—your bobber is sure to sink in no time. Good luck fishing.
Ross Hagemeister, Meister Guide Service