We are heading up to Ely to fish Basswood next week. We are going through Fall and Newton. If anyone has any reports, tips, hotspots I would really appreciate it. We have never done this before. Thanks in advance, Joe

anyone?

Try to get up into North Bay and what I used to call American Bay. Gee, I really need to see if I have any old maps on Basswood, but what I am calling American Bay is on the west side of Basswood. You will probably be prime time for smallies, so bring topwaters, and if you can, bring some crawlers for the eyes. I would recommend leeches, but I believe it is now illegal to bring them in there. Another trick I used to use was use a small 14 hook, use a small bread ball, and catch my own minnows, then use them. Also, Merriam Bay is good, fish the Bedsprings for walleyes. Have fun on this great fishing lake.