Smallies at ice out on Pepin

Has anyone fished for smallies at ice out on Pepin? If so what were your best techniques and depths? Also have you done better on the North or South end? Taking a freind out on Sat. and Sun. to chase the bronzebacks around. Be as precise or vague as you want…anything will help.
Thanks,
Paul

Paul,

I’ll be there Friday so they will all will have sore lips. I would expect the fish to be tight to the bank by afternoon and taking all the standard lures. However, a suspending jerkbait is hard to beat this time of year. The stretch from LaCpolis Lake City has the highest concentration of fish. Expect lots of company from what I’m hearing.

LOL! Smallies on Lake Pepin in early spring? Never heard of such a thing.. Yeah you will have some company counting me

How about any big gators? My son and I will be out Sunday in the backwaters looking for them. What ramps are open down there for a big 20 Champ to go in? Will you be out on Sunday?

mnfish,

The Lake City Ramp may be the best choice. If you’re launching in Wabasha alone (I assume your son is to young to drive) you may want to bring some knee-high boots. I suspect the water is up in the parking lots so even if you have a steep ramp you’ll be stepping out of the truck into water. I don’t think may people have had a chance to fish for pike yet but look in the classic dark bottom areas in Peterson, Robinson and Big Lake.

Hey guys, I’m new to the IDA site and really enjoy learning from you guys by reading the forums. I’m getting a new boat this weekend and can’t wait to get it out. Sounds like Lake Pepin might be a good place to try it out and maybe catch a smallie. But, I’ve not fished Lake Pepin before. I would be launching at Pepin Can anyone give me an idea of what pattern the fish are on this early. I’ve heard suspending jerkbaits work well early. Is this something I should try? Any information will help out alot. Drop me an email. [email protected]
Thanks much