05/18/09 St Croix River walleye fishing is still good, with much of the same depths and locations continuing to produce. A few changes will occur soon as the high water is receding, specifically location and forcing fish to adjust their locations as the water drops, many fish will fall back from northern spawning grounds. Water clarity is still excellent and debris minimal as inputs in to the river system has been nil. Walleye sizes are starting to become more consistent for the full range of fish being caught, as the larger fish, though naturally less in numbers are showing up on angler’s hooks. Some of the fish have been in the 28” range. Practice catch and release, I let fish over 20” go free and reproduce again. The short fish season continues with many 14” walleyes, and again 15” is minimum size to be a kept. Best depths for walleye have been from 10 to 20 feet deep on sand, some deeper water locations such as holes are holding fish, and then depths can be 30 feet. The range in the teens is generally consistent in holding white tips. Walleyes and some saugers are being caught on Lindy rigs, split shot rigs, (rigs with crawlers and leeches) jig and minnow, and trolled crankbait. Rapala Shad Raps are a top producer in chartreuse, firetiger and clown smaller lures. Also anglers slow trolling livebait three way rigs (wolf river rigs) into and with current are producing. Many good reports are coming in from Prescott to Stillwater. My guide trips have produced double digit keeper numbers for two weeks now, the weather is turning nice, looks like summer time soon. Good luck-give a wave.
Water temp 57 degrees. The river is 680.79 feet above sea level in Stillwater, Minnesota. The normal pool level is 675.5.
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