Walleye locations and depths were typical for this time of year, though the bite was sporadic. There is always a weather story for the week and this past week it was wind. It blew heavily for most of the week. Walleyes were fairly active during the windy periods, but boat control and guest comfort suffered dramatically. The choice was to either stick it out in the rough water or find quieter water with far fewer fish. As expected, when the wind finally ended the bite again became a bit tough, with “lots markin’, but little catchin.’”
Both main lake rock and sand structure produced well for volume in the 20 – 30 ft. zone. Most of the big fish were again caught in 30 – 35ft. Guide reports averaged 40 walleyes per day over 18 in. and the highest daily total was 62. For the week, we caught and released 26 walleyes over 27in., including 4 – 28s. The key presentation for the week was jig and minnow combos in 3/8 oz, occasionally down sizing to 1/4 oz. for tough bites.
Last week’s winds were the precursor to the first cool air of the season. The lows dropped down into the mid 40’s and the lake surface temps have already dropped down to 65. There is a noticeable change in the air and Fall can’t be too far around the corner.
A few of the guides made a brief check of the Sept. Pike areas but found mostly smaller fish. It will likely still be another week or two before the water cools enough to bring the bigger fish back shallow.
