Kabetogama opener 2019 Recap
Great start to the 2019 fishing opener!
Walleye fishing was excellent over the weekend and continues to be strong. With water temperatures continuing to hold in the mid to upper 40’s the patterns remain unchanged. Shallow water along most rubble/gravel/sand shorelines are producing bigger fish with a few eater sized fish in the mix. Deeper water adjacent to these areas producing smaller fish. A jig and minnow is the preferred presentation regardless of where you drop a line. With the wind speeds being unpredictable and changing by the hour you will want a variety of sized jigs in your tackle box. Staying as vertical as possible and close to the bottom is always key fishing this way so use the necessary weight jig to accomplish this. If you are pitching in shallow then use whatever size jig is most comfortable for you. This can be a tough presentation to master but with the bite this good, now is the time to practice. Shiners are the preferred bait but rainbows and chubs are working just as well when the bite is on.
Water levels are great and right in line with the rule curve in effect. Boat activity was normal on opening day but dropped off significantly as the weekend went on. This was most likely due to the fact that dock fishing was spectacular. Resort owners said their docks were lined up with anglers catching lots of fish. A slip bobber can be deadly when fishing like this, not to mention extremely fun and relaxing. Quite a few fish still having spawn but that should drop off quickly now.
Northern pike are extremely active and mixed in with the walleyes. This is typical with the feeding patterns we presently have going on.
With most targeting walleye and pike, crappie reports are limited. Crappie should begin to move into the shallows as they begin to spawn when water temps reach the upper 50’s. Check adjacent deep holes to these areas and you will most likely find suspended fish waiting to move in.
Make sure to check the latest news on the Voyageurs National Park website as there are some campsite and island restrictions due to nesting bald eagles. Bring your binoculars as there is a good chance you will see eaglets being fed by their parents.
All in all it has been a great start to the season with everyone catching a few fish, staying safe and enjoying mother nature at its finest.
Until next time…..
Gateway
