Brainerd Lakes Area

[early007]

Old man winter has really set in this week. Which will make some great ice in the area. Perfect timing for the Jaycees Ice Fishing contest on January 17. The fast action that we’ve had in recent weeks has slowed a little. But some nicer fish have been caught. Which I think is typical going into the mid-winter. The best walleye bite in the area is still on Gull or Pelican. The active fish have moved a little deeper. The best depths have been 24-35 feet with some fish caught out to 50 feet. Jigging spoons tipped with just a minnow head have worked well for aggressive fish. While shiners or fatheads on bobber lines are fooling the bigger more cautious walleyes. Keep your baits close to the bottom for best results. For some fast action it’s hard to beat the Northerns right now. Most have been small but they have been keeping anglers busy. Tip ups and sucker minnows are a good combination. They are easy to find, just set up on the edge of a weedy area in 10-14 feet. Keep your bait above the bottom about 2-3 feet. The Panfish reports have been limited. Crappie anglers are catching a few in the evenings. But it has been picking up a little. The cold weather this week may slow fishing down a little but after it warms up again they should snappin again. Even though it’s been cold, still be careful when driving on the lakes. Especially near any pressure ridges or cracks. Good Luck and Be Safe!

Jason Erlandson
Dave’s Sportland Bait and Tackle
Nisswa MN
218-963-2401