Well, just got back from our annual boys trip 9/23-9/27 and the fishing was OK, not great, but OK. Tried to fish Bitter on Friday, but the wind was just too strong and blew us off. Actually took one over the Bow and that has never happened! Did well on Pickerel, Did well on Waubay but had to fight the wind again. Fished Enemy Swim and only managed a few Smallies. Lots of Rock Bass on Pickerel with an occasional decent walleye, a few crappies, Smallies (Of course didn’t keep any) a few Pike, largest Pike went 8.5 lbs. Waubay gave up a limit of six eye’s (3 guys) and caught a few shorts. Other buddies in two boats didn’t do as well. First year we ever caught Smallies on Waubay though, However not a perch to be had. With all of the cold fronts we had to contend with, we found fish in any of the three lakes at least 12 ft and deeper. nothing shallower. Worm was a better bite than minnows (again, unusual for our group).

It was still a great trip. However, One of these times, I’m going to hit it when a front isn’t coming through.

My favorite place is Pickerel Lake Lodge. A little pricey but nice and a good Restuarant on site.

Nick, thank you for the report. I hope with the falling water temperatures, the fish might start feeding up. We’ve been up in September for the last 4 years and usually do OK. Thanks again.

Just thought I would let you know, My son and I went to Waubay this past weekend. Did a lot of fishing and just a little catching. First time it has been that slow for me. “should have been here last week” is what all of the baitshops were saying. I knew we were in trouble.

Waubay was tough to fish on Friday because of the 20-30 mph wind out of the east. Yielded only a couple of dinks.
Spent some time on Pickerel and Enemy Swim and caught some nice Sm Mouth, (threw them back, of course) and few perch and eye’s, nothing of any size though.

I think your choice of Mille Lacs may prove to be the better choice! I have another SD trip planned for late September and we usually do pretty well. I will post a report after that. Would appreciate a report from Mille Lacs if you go, it may change my fall SD trip!. Tight Lines.

From your post, looks like you are coming from eastern Iowa. I would have a hard time passing up Mille Lacs in MN, check out those reports on this site!. I have been to the Waubay area many times and the fishing is usually pretty good. However Waubay has a 2 eye limit and I believe over 16″ (check the regs before you go!). You can catch many under that size also. Some of the surrounding lakes can run hot and cold, but in general fishing is usually decent. Check out this webpage for the lastest info. http://www.sdglaciallakes.com. It should be able to link you over to a number of places to stay.
Good Luck and post after you get back.