We have now entered the week after Independence Day and it seems that the fish are now in their mid-summer patterns. Bass can be found along weed lines in 12-16 feet of water and guys are also reporting nicer bass off the deeper cabbage beds. The bay and Cemetery Reef seem to be producing some bigger fish for those chasing Bucketmouths. Most guys are throwing the usual jigs or worms, but don’t look past the simple and very productive spinnerbait.
Most of the walleye action is going to be in a little deeper water. Guys are finding fish in 18+ feet of water around the reefs. Kegs, North, and Andersons are a few areas to check out. It is typically a low light bite, especially on hot, sunny days. A jig and a minnow or a Lindy Rig and a leech have been producing the majority of the fish.
The panfish are still going to be out in a little deeper water. A lot of the fish are being caught in the weeds and right on the weed lines in 10-16 feet of water. Most people are having success with wax worms, crawlers, and small leeches, but don’t overlook artificial bait. We have heard a lot of good reports from guys using Gulp Alive 1” fish fry.
The muskie action has been heating up the last week. Guys have reported seeing quite a few more fish and they are even landing a few more. Try fishing the south shore, Reinkes, and the reefs in 12-18 feet of water. Guys are using bucktails, dawgs, and jerkbaits. People are also reporting a few fish trolling the deeper water around the reefs with crainkbaits.
With surface water temps now hovering around 80-83 degrees you have to be even more careful while handling the mighty muskie. Having the proper release tools is the most important part in muskie fishing. A large net, large needle nose pliers, heavy duty hook cutters and jaw spreaders are an absolute necessity if you are targeting these fish. Have everything ready to go in your boat so you can get the fish back swimming in the least amount of time possible. Unhook the fish while it is still swimming in the net and have your camera ready to go. The only time the fish should leave the water is to snap a few quick photos. When you release the fish hang on to the tail as long as necessary to make certain it is really ready to go.
