FISHING WITH THE GUIDES with George Langley - WEEK OF 4/14 to 4/21

3 weeks until the opener. Plenty of time to test out your equipment and boat before the big weekend. Guess you could say we’re lucky, as there have been many years where we’re biting our nails and wondering if there will be any open water to fish on opening weekend. Not the case this year! In fact, this year Mother Nature is giving us plenty of time to get out and prep for it, including being able to launch your boat and test out the motor, troller and electronics if you so choose. It’s also time to get your new fishing license if you haven’t already.

This last weekend was gorgeous, with bright sunshine and warm temps.  The thunderstorms we had Saturday night into Sunday added some much needed water to our lakes, but we need more. It looks like we’ve got a good chance for some more rain mid-week this week, and while it’s not staying quite as warm as it was, it’s not getting terribly cold again, either. Cold nighttime temps should not affect the fishing much right now.

As far as Spring fishing, the perch are moving and starting their spawn. This is providing some decent fishing and a good chance to test out rods and reels. Look in the shallows and use crappie minnows or worms on small jigs for these guys.

Crappie and bluegill action hasn't been noteworthy yet. In fact, according to some anglers they are actively avoiding eating even the most tempting morsels.  However, you can expect them to be searching for warm water – South facing bays on the North side of the lake, sunny water with fallen trees or brush cover, or look for green weeds and fish deep edges of those weeds. Use crappie minnows or fatheads to target them – and patience. These guys will start eating well, soon.

The DNR has started installing some docks at some landings, but if you’re looking to get out and not sure of a particular lake, there is always the Chain.

Good luck and good fishin'!

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