Mike Steele 19.5 inch Smallmouth Bass take on Newton Lake
For this week’s edition of the Fall Lake fishing report we recap the 2017 fishing opener!
This year, fishing opener in the BWCA was more like spring break with temps in the 60’s. Area anglers had mixed success. Fall Lake was a buzz with boats and the power dam was the place to be. Packsack anglers were able to find the walleyes in depths of 8-12 feet of water, using a jig (gold being the most popular color) and a minnow (rainbows, and shiners). Those who crossed the portage into Newton and Basswood had mixed reports, as some felt the sunny windless days kept the fish from biting, others had no problem filling their stringer.
Reports of large northern have come in from Basswood Lake, anglers fishing the mouth of rivers and streams with big suckers were able to secure pike up to 45 inches in length. Fall Lake saw no shortage of northern pike, just not the sizes that were coming from Basswood.
With water temps in the mid 50’s, Crappie’s are starting to spawn. Crappies are being found in 2-5 feet of water amongst the weed beds. Smallmouth bass will begin actively spawning as the water temps enter the 60’s, they can be found in the gravelly shallows of our lakes.
For this second week of Minnesota’s fishing season, I would like to think the fishing on Fall Lake will still be hot, with the power dam being the hottest spot for walleyes. If you’re looking for a chance at catching that trophy, I would suggest doing the portage into Newton or Pipestone.
Things to remember: wear your life jacket, bring a towel to keep your hands warm and dry, and most importantly…have fun and be safe!!!