Episodes

  • Ideal Fall Fishing on the Mississippi River near Minneapolis

    Ideal Fall Fishing on the Mississippi River near Minneapolis
    Oct 3 2024
    As we step into October 3rd, 2024, the Mississippi River around Minneapolis is offering some excellent fall fishing opportunities. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

    First off, the Mississippi River, being a non-tidal river, does not have tides, but the water levels are currently low due to the lack of significant rainfall and snowmelt this year. However, the levels have stabilized somewhat after a period of low flow earlier in the year.

    The weather today is expected to be partly cloudy with a high of around 68 degrees Fahrenheit and a low of 50 degrees. Sunrise is at 7:04 AM, and sunset will be at 6:47 PM, giving you plenty of daylight to get out on the water.

    Fish activity has been strong, particularly for walleyes and saugers. Yesterday, anglers reported catching these species in various depths, ranging from 2 to 16 feet. The walleye and sauger bite continues to be robust as the water temperatures drop, with many quality fish up to 21 inches being caught.

    For lures, vertical jigging and Dubuque rigs are working well. Berkley bonefish, curlybones, ripple shads, and rib worms are good choices, along with hair jigs in colors like white ice, purples, and chartreuse. Crankbaits, either on leadcore or longline trolling, have also been effective, especially in areas with less bait.

    Panfishing remains good as well, with bluegills, crappies, and perch filling in the gaps when the walleyes quit biting. Small jigs with plastics or tipped with a chunk of crawler, used under a bobber or pitched, are recommended.

    Hot spots include the rock shorelines, wing dams, and areas with wood and weeds. Pool 4, which includes Lake Pepin, is particularly promising, with its unique fishery offering both size and quantity of walleyes and saugers.

    Overall, the conditions are ideal for a great day of fishing on the Mississippi River around Minneapolis. Get out there and enjoy the fall bite
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    2 mins
  • Fall Fishing Forecast: Walleyes, Saugers, and Panfish Abound on the Mississippi River near Minneapolis

    Fall Fishing Forecast: Walleyes, Saugers, and Panfish Abound on the Mississippi River near Minneapolis
    Oct 2 2024
    As we step into October on the Mississippi River around Minneapolis, the fall fishing scene is shaping up to be quite promising. Today, October 2, 2024, you can expect partly cloudy skies with a high of around 68 degrees Fahrenheit and a low of 50 degrees. Sunrise is at 7:04 AM, and sunset will be at 6:47 PM.

    Since the Mississippi River is non-tidal, water levels are currently slightly above normal but stabilizing, which is ideal for fishing. The recent drop in water temperatures has invigorated the fish, making for an exciting day on the water.

    Yesterday's fishing was excellent, with a strong walleye and sauger bite. Anglers reported catching good numbers of walleyes and saugers, many of which were quite girthy from putting on their fall weight. Panfish such as bluegills, crappies, and perch were also abundant, filling in the gaps when the walleyes were less active.

    For the best results, use crankbaits on leadcore or longline trolling, especially in areas with less bait. Casting hair jigs and crankbaits near wing dams and rock shorelines has also been productive. For panfish, small jigs with plastics or tipped with a chunk of crawler under a bobber work well.

    Hot spots include the areas around Lake Pepin and the river sections of Pool 4. The mid-lake basin flats and smaller, isolated humps are also worth exploring. Rock shorelines, wing dams, and weed beds continue to produce good numbers of fish.

    Overall, the conditions are ideal for a great day of fishing on the Mississippi River. Make sure to wear your life jacket and enjoy the crisp autumn weather.
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    2 mins
  • Fishing the Mississippi River in the Fall: Walleye, Sauger, and Panfish Abundance

    Fishing the Mississippi River in the Fall: Walleye, Sauger, and Panfish Abundance
    Oct 1 2024
    As we step into October on the Mississippi River around Minneapolis, the fishing scene is looking promising. Here’s a snapshot of what you can expect today.

    ### Weather and Tidal Report
    The weather is expected to be partly cloudy with a high of around 62°F and a low of 45°F. Since the Mississippi River is not a tidal river, water levels are more influenced by dam operations and rainfall. Currently, the water level is a bit above normal, but clarity and temperature are about what we expect for this time of year.

    ### Sunrise and Sunset
    Sunrise today is at 7:07 AM, and sunset will be at 6:43 PM, giving you a good window for both morning and evening fishing.

    ### Fish Activity
    The fall season is a great time for fishing on the Mississippi River, with Walleye and Sauger being the main targets. As the water temperatures drop, these fish are feeding aggressively to prepare for winter. Yesterday saw a strong bite for both species, especially in areas with less bait fish activity. Panfishing for Bluegills, Crappies, and Perch has also been excellent, filling in the gaps when the Walleyes are not biting.

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish Caught
    Yesterday, anglers reported catching Walleyes up to 23 inches and Saugers of similar size. The Panfish bite was strong, with good numbers of Bluegills, Crappies, and Perch being caught.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For Walleyes and Saugers, vertical jigging and Dubuque rigs are working well. Lures like Berkley bonefish, curlybones, ripple shads, and rib worms are effective. Hair jigs in white, purple, and chartreuse colors are also producing results. For Panfish, small jigs with plastics or tipped with a chunk of crawler under a bobber are recommended.

    ### Hot Spots
    Pool 4, which includes Lake Pepin, is a hotspot for Walleye and Sauger fishing. Areas around wing dams, rock shorelines, and wood structures are producing good numbers. The stretch of the river above and below Lake Pepin, particularly around Lock and Dam 3 and Lock and Dam 4, is also worth exploring.

    Overall, it's shaping up to be a great fall on the Mississippi River, with plenty of opportunities to catch a variety of fish species. Make sure to book your trip soon, as the weather can change quickly this time of year.
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    3 mins
  • Fall Fishing on the Mississippi River Around Minneapolis

    Fall Fishing on the Mississippi River Around Minneapolis
    Sep 30 2024
    As we step into the last day of September 2024, the Mississippi River around Minneapolis is gearing up for some excellent fall fishing. Here’s what you need to know for today’s outing.

    ### Weather and Tidal Report
    The weather is expected to be partly cloudy with a high of around 68 degrees Fahrenheit and a low of 50 degrees. Sunrise is at 7:04 AM, and sunset will be at 6:47 PM. The Mississippi River, being a non-tidal river, does not have tides, but the water levels are currently low due to the lack of significant rainfall and snowmelt this year.

    ### Fish Activity
    The walleye and sauger bite continues to be strong as the water temperatures drop. Yesterday, anglers reported catching walleyes and saugers in various depths, particularly around the wing dams and rock shorelines. The fish are putting on their fall weight, making them quite girthy.

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish
    Walleyes and saugers are the main targets right now. Anglers have been catching fish up to 23 inches, with some walleyes also being caught in the shallower areas. Panfish like bluegills, crappies, and perch are also active, providing a good backup plan when the walleye bite slows down.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For walleyes and saugers, vertical jigging with Berkley bonefish, curlybones, ripple shads, and rib worms has been effective. Crankbaits on leadcore or longline trolling are also producing good results. Hair jigs in white, purple, and chartreuse colors are working well. For panfish, small jigs with plastics or tipped with a chunk of crawler under a bobber are recommended.

    ### Hot Spots
    - **Wing Dams**: These structures are holding a lot of fish, especially walleyes and saugers.
    - **Rock Shorelines**: Areas with rocky shorelines and weed beds are producing good numbers of walleyes and panfish.
    - **Lake Pepin**: This area is known for its strong walleye and sauger population and is worth a visit, especially during the twilight hours when the bite tends to be better.

    Overall, the Mississippi River around Minneapolis is offering some great fishing opportunities as we transition into fall. Make sure to adjust your tactics according to the changing water temperatures and fish behavior. Happy fishing
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    3 mins
  • Excellent Fall Fishing on the Mississippi River Near Minneapolis

    Excellent Fall Fishing on the Mississippi River Near Minneapolis
    Sep 29 2024
    As we step into the final day of September 2024, the Mississippi River around Minneapolis is gearing up for what promises to be an excellent fall fishing season. Here’s a rundown of what you can expect today.

    **Weather and Conditions:**
    Today, September 29th, you can expect a mix of sun and clouds with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-60s. The weather has been relatively calm, which is ideal for fishing. Water temperatures are currently around 64 degrees, a perfect range for many species to be active.

    **Sunrise and Sunset:**
    Sunrise is at 7:04 AM, and sunset will be at 6:53 PM, giving you a good window for both morning and evening fishing.

    **Fish Activity:**
    The walleye and sauger bite has been strong as we head into fall. Yesterday, anglers reported catching walleyes and saugers in good numbers, particularly in areas with less bait concentration. These fish are gorging on baitfish, making them quite aggressive and plump.

    **Types and Amounts of Fish:**
    Walleyes and saugers are the main targets, with some catches reaching up to 23 inches. Panfish like bluegills, crappies, and perch are also active, filling in the gaps when the walleye bite slows down.

    **Best Lures and Bait:**
    For walleyes and saugers, vertical jigging with frozen emerald shiners or fathead minnows has been highly effective. Crankbaits, especially those on leadcore or longline trolling, are also producing good results. For panfish, small jigs with plastics or tipped with a chunk of crawler work well. Hair jigs in colors like white ice, purples, and chartreuse are also recommended.

    **Hot Spots:**
    One of the best areas to fish is around the wing dams and rock shorelines. These structures tend to hold a lot of fish, especially walleyes and saugers. Another hot spot is the area near Lake Pepin, where the river sections are producing good catches. If you can find areas with less bait concentration, the fish tend to be more aggressive.

    **Tidal Report:**
    While the Mississippi River does not have tides in the traditional sense, the water levels can fluctuate based on dam operations and rainfall. Currently, the river is at a relatively low level due to the lack of significant rainfall, but this has not deterred the fish from being active.

    Overall, today looks like a great day to get out on the Mississippi River and enjoy some excellent fall fishing. Just remember to check the water levels and adjust your fishing spots accordingly. Happy fishing
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    3 mins
  • Promising Fall Fishing on the Mississippi Near Minneapolis - Walleyes, Saugers, and Panfish Abound

    Promising Fall Fishing on the Mississippi Near Minneapolis - Walleyes, Saugers, and Panfish Abound
    Sep 28 2024
    As of September 28, 2024, the fishing scene on the Mississippi River near Minneapolis is looking promising, especially with the fall season in full swing.

    ### Weather and Tidal Report
    The weather today is expected to be partly cloudy with a high of around 68 degrees Fahrenheit and a low of 50 degrees. Sunrise is at 7:04 AM, and sunset will be at 6:54 PM. Since the Mississippi River is not a tidal river, water levels are more influenced by rainfall and human management rather than tides.

    ### Fish Activity
    Yesterday saw a mix of fish activity, particularly with the cooling water temperatures. Walleye and Sauger fishing have been strong as the water temps start to drop. Anglers reported catching walleyes and saugers in various depths, with the best catches coming from areas with less bait concentration. The fish have been putting on their fall weight, making them quite girthy.

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish Caught
    Walleyes and saugers were the main catches, with some fish reaching up to 23 inches in length. Panfish such as bluegills, crappies, and perch were also plentiful, filling in the gaps when the walleye bite slowed down. Large shad schools are present everywhere, which can sometimes make the fish less aggressive, but finding areas with less bait has proven effective.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For walleyes and saugers, vertical jigging with live bait jigs tipped with fatheads or golden shiners has been productive. Crankbaits, either on leadcore or longline trolling, have also been successful. Hair jigs and curly tail grubs in colors like white ice, purples, and chartreuse are good choices. For panfish, small jigs with plastics or tipped with a chunk of crawler under a bobber have worked well.

    ### Hot Spots
    One of the hot spots is around the wing dams and rock shorelines, where the structure provides good habitat for walleyes and saugers. Another area is near the wood and weed beds, which are ideal for panfish. The stretch of the river around Lake Pepin is also highly recommended, as it offers a mix of deep and shallow waters that attract a variety of fish species.

    Overall, the Mississippi River near Minneapolis is offering some great fall fishing opportunities. With the right lures and bait, and by targeting the right spots, anglers can expect a rewarding day on the water.
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    3 mins
  • Fishing the Mississippi: Walleye, Sauger, and Panfish Bonanza near Minneapolis this Fall

    Fishing the Mississippi: Walleye, Sauger, and Panfish Bonanza near Minneapolis this Fall
    Sep 27 2024
    As of September 27, 2024, the fishing scene on the Mississippi River around Minneapolis is looking promising, especially as we dive into the fall season.

    ### Weather and Tidal Conditions
    The weather today is expected to be partly cloudy with a high of around 68 degrees Fahrenheit and a low of 50 degrees. Sunrise was at 7:04 AM, and sunset will be at 6:54 PM. The Mississippi River, being a non-tidal river, does not have tides, but water levels are currently at normal levels after a period of low flow earlier in the year.

    ### Fish Activity
    The walleye and sauger bite has been strong as the water temperatures start to drop. Yesterday, anglers reported catching walleyes and saugers in various depths, ranging from 2 to 16 feet. The fish are active, particularly in areas with less bait, making them more aggressive. Panfishing for bluegills, crappies, and perch has also been good, filling in the gaps when the walleyes are not biting.

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish
    Walleyes up to 23 inches and saugers of similar size have been caught, with many fish showing significant girth from their fall feeding. Bluegills and crappies are plentiful, especially around rock shorelines, wing dams, wood, and weed beds.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For walleyes and saugers, vertical jigging with jacks jigs tipped with crawlers and leeches has been effective. Dragging bottom bouncers and using crankbaits on leadcore or longline trolling are also producing results. For panfish, small jigs with plastics or tipped with a chunk of crawler under a bobber or pitched into the right spots are working well. Colors such as white ice, purples, and chartreuse are good choices.

    ### Hot Spots
    Pool 4 of the Mississippi River, particularly around Red Wing, is a hot spot for walleyes and saugers. The area around Lake Pepin is also productive, with fish congregating around wing dams and rocky habitats. Another good spot is the stretch near Hastings, where the river's structure and bait schools attract a variety of fish.

    Overall, it's shaping up to be a great fall for fishing on the Mississippi River. With the right techniques and bait, you're likely to have a successful and enjoyable day on the water.
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    3 mins
  • Fall Fishing Report: Promising Conditions on the Mississippi River Near Minneapolis

    Fall Fishing Report: Promising Conditions on the Mississippi River Near Minneapolis
    Sep 26 2024
    As of September 26, 2024, the fishing scene on the Mississippi River near Minneapolis is looking promising, especially as we transition into the fall season.

    ### Weather and Conditions
    The weather forecast for today indicates partly cloudy skies with a high of around 68 degrees Fahrenheit and a low of 50 degrees. There will be a gentle breeze out of the northwest, which should help keep the fish active. Sunrise is at 7:04 AM, and sunset will be at 6:54 PM.

    ### Water Conditions
    The Mississippi River's water levels are currently lower than usual due to the lack of significant rainfall and snowmelt this year. However, this has not deterred the fish from biting. Water temperatures are in the mid-50s to low 60s, which is ideal for fall fishing.

    ### Fish Activity
    Yesterday saw a strong walleye and sauger bite, particularly in areas with less bait fish activity. Anglers reported catching walleyes and saugers using crankbaits on leadcore or longline trolling. Casting hair jigs and crankbaits near wing dams also produced good results. Panfish, including bluegills, crappies, and perch, were active as well, especially around rock shorelines, wood, and weed beds.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For walleyes and saugers, crankbaits in natural colors like shad patterns or white and chartreuse have been effective. Hair jigs in white, purple, and chartreuse are also working well. When using live bait, a two-hook crawler harness with a spinner blade in gold, pink, or glow colors has been successful. For panfish, small jigs tipped with plastics or a chunk of night crawler under a bobber have been filling the gaps when the walleyes are not biting.

    ### Hot Spots
    One of the hot spots has been the area around the wing dams, where the structure and lack of strong current have concentrated the fish. Another productive area is the rock shorelines and weed beds, particularly where there is a mix of gravel and weeds. These areas have been holding good numbers of perch and other panfish.

    Overall, the Mississippi River near Minneapolis is shaping up for a great fall fishing season. With the right lures and bait, and by targeting the right structures, anglers should have a successful day on the water.
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    3 mins