FISHING WITH THE GUIDES with George Langley - WEEK OF 4/28 to 5/5

While the weather seems to be in a holding pattern of ups and downs, at least we can say we’re looking forward to the opening of game fishing season next Saturday. We’ve had plenty of time to practice on open water this year, and all of us should be primed and ready. It doesn’t look like we have anything dramatic to come as far as the weather goes, except more of the same – no huge ups or downs, but a general trend towards warmer. With the early ice-out, normal fish patterns are a bit out of whack and unpredictable, but nothing we haven’t seen before.

Water temps are in the upper 40 degree range on most lakes and will warm a little this week temperatures warm. Our biggest need at this point from the weather is consistency – and rain. We could still really use some rain up here.

Perch fishing is OK, but not great. The balance of those fish have finished spawning and moved off the shorelines and are in the emerging weed areas. They have been hitting minnows quite well, but are now starting to hit worms as well. Look for weeds and brush piles that provide cover to be holding these fish.

Crappie action is starting to heat up and will provide for us the best single fishery out there on many lakes, for the next 2 to 3 weeks now. They will begin to start the spawning process, if we stay warmer with some consistency now. A lot of fish have been caught in the warmer lakes already this year, but these fish are just starting to hold in the areas right off from where they are going to spawn. They are coming in better on warm afternoons than on the cold mornings. Slip bobbers with minnows are going well at this point, just fished in the 5 to 8' range in weeds or around brush piles.

As for walleye for the opener…they are all over. They are spawning, or done, or still waiting to spawn on lakes throughout the area. You’ll need to be flexible in your approach as they could be shallow or deep. A jig and a minnow are your best bet with a crankbait for back-up. Up shallow or out deep on the weed edges. Be prepared for it all.

We’ll see what the Northern and the Bass have to offer after next weekend. For now, it’s just nice to have something to look forward to besides panfish on the end of your line!

A lot to look forward to at this time of year. If you haven’t already, this is your week to prep! Get that line replaced and that tackle box in order. Wishing all of you a fantastic Opening Weekend and as always,

Good luck and good fishn'!

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