The 2023 Minnesota Fishing Opener!
We targeted walleyes and had a blast catching a bunch of fish despite the windy conditions!
Walleyes were in on shallow rock/sand or sand/muddy/weed transitions in 6-12ft of water. We longline trolled Smithwick Perfect 10 or Rattlin’ Floating Rogues in the dark from .8-1.5mph; and during the day we caught fish on Lindy jig/minnow combinations with a gold 1/8oz jig producing the most results. Also working is pitching a lipless crankbait such as a Booyah One Knocker or jig/soft plastic and rip/pause/lift/slow drop retrieves.
Crappies have been staying in areas adjacent to spawning habit, such a steep breaks, holes and flats in 8-15ft of water. Drive around areas near spawning habitat or sunken wood until you see schools, or check shaded areas such as docks/bridges/boat lifts and fish the schools. Two main approaches for early spring crappies are jig/plastic or bobber/minnow presentations. We opted for using Lindy Fatboy Tungsten Jigs and Mister Twister Sassy Stingum plastics to catch our fish! We found a large school, anchor-locked on the school, and either vertically jigged them or pitched at the school. Sunfish are near these same areas and will hit a wax worm tipped on a small lead or tungsten jig; slip or attached floats/bobbers will catch fish.
You can target catfish in the area as well and I’ve heard limited reports at this time, but fish are catchable in current seams with cut bait and a weighted rig.
We are really excited too see what this season brings for fish, outdoor adventures, and making memories with friends and family!
Good luck, stay safe and Happy Hawg Hunting!
