Leech Lake Opener 2016

Heading up to Leech Lake for opener again this year. Staying at Pikedale Lodge by partridge point. Did alright last year jig and a shiner on partridge but would like to jump around so other areas close by. Didnt have leadcore or trolling setups last year but do now and heard that can produce in the shallows in evening. Looking for any help or suggestions on different areas to try close by. Only have a 16.5 alumacraft so cant cross the whole lake but willing to try other areas. Thanks in advance! Whats in your leech lake opener tackle box!? Any color suggestions? Best cranks to use?

Tight Lines
Erek

I have never been too big on talking specific spots on the web but I’m sure others will chime in here. In general, I first look to classic shoreline points, flats and breaklines in 6-12 f.o.w. If it’s an early spring, fish might just disperse a bit and move slightly deeper.

A jig and minnow is typically king when the water is in the 50’s. I have seen years when rigs take finicky fish though. Once the temps get to the 60’s (typically June) all bets are off as far as best presentations or best locations. Trolling at night in the same depth ranges can be productive too.

Here’s a similar thread from last spring.

https://www.in-depthoutdoors.com/community/forums/topic/whats-in-your-leech-l-tackle-box/

I will send you a PM tonight with some ideas.

Just 25 days to go!

Meanwhile perch, crappie and sunfish are going to get wore out. I had seen 50-55 degree water on a few smaller lakes last weekend. We just need a few more warmer days and nights for panfishing to really pick up. Consider selectively harvesting these family favorites.

Cheers and hooksets!

i usually fish the narrows and walker bay but over the last couple years we have not been doing well. People around us were also struggling. i have heard rumors of federal dam being good but it would be unpleasant to launch there and then not find much then have to relaunch elsewhere. Can anyone give their thoughts on what they have seen the last couple years…trying to make a plan before we leave but struggling.

Walleye Hungry wrote:

i usually fish the narrows and walker bay but over the last couple years we have not been doing well. People around us were also struggling. i have heard rumors of federal dam being good but it would be unpleasant to launch there and then not find much then have to relaunch elsewhere. Can anyone give their thoughts on what they have seen the last couple years…trying to make a plan before we leave but struggling.

Walker Bay can be a little tougher early on. Maybe keep going north and east and into the main lake/Goose Island Flats/Grand Vu Flats/Pine Point/Traders Bay areas. Lots of boats but maybe some easier fish too…??

Nothing wrong with the east side. I stay out of stony point starting on Sunday for a week (dont like the madness of actual opener) and will be frequenting the east side a few times.

my go to’s for trolling with lead on leech are Rapala flat raps and original floaters in perch, gold black, blue white. Husky jerks at night. I think the rattles help then.

for us the week is about pike on the fly rod, so we target emerging weeds or old rush beds and rip jig for walleye while the other is tossing a fly for Mrs. Pike.

Wes, I thought I would be the only one up there throwing flies at pike over the first few days of the season. Very cool, good luck as myself and my wife will be doing this for 3 days also.

I am staying at Pikedale lodge, never been there before but it was my Christmas present from my wife. Maybe see you around with the long rods.

Brandon