May 13, 2002
FROM: Leech Lake Guide Coalition
ADDRESS: P.O. Box 517, Walker, MN 56484
SUBJECT: Leech Lake Area Fishing Report
PHONE: 218.547.3212
WEB: http://www.leechlakeguides.com
The opening weekend on Leech Lake for walleyes is a good news/bad news story. The good news is that the walleyes are “where they are suppose to be”. The bad news is their sluggish. Patience is the key.
With water temperatures in the 44-47 degree range finding active, aggressive walleyes proved to be a challenge for many anglers. However, anglers who stayed persistent did catch fish. Most reports indicated that fish were located where they normally would be or close to where they are on opening days in the past. In fact some areas appeared to be quite full of walleyes with many located on sonar. Many anglers used the standard jig/minnow presentation that has become mainstay on Leech Lake. The jig/minnow combo did catch fish. Other anglers had good success with Roach Rigs (live bait rigs) with short 18-22″ snells tipped with a shiner minnow. The key to both presentations was lack of effort. Jigs dragged on the bottom and Roach Rigs trolled very, very slow tripped the active fish into biting. An excellent average size of walleye was caught this past weekend with many fish in the 18-22″ size reported and some in the upper 20″ class caught as well.
The areas of Leech that did produce fish were many, it seems no one area was hotter than another. Good fish reports from Bear Island, Five Mile, Two Points, Ottertail, Traders Bay, Walker Bay. Fish came mostly from depths of 7-11′.
As these water temperatures warm, look for each day to increase walleye activity. With the current weather forecast this next weekend will be some great walleye fishing!
Good Luck Fishing and stay persistent.
Leech Lake Guide Coalition
218-547-3212