Fishing Report – June 5, 2024

Location: Lake Winnibigoshish

Weather:

• Temperature: 68°F (High), 50°F (Low)
• Wind: SSW at 10-15 mph
• Sky: Partly cloudy

Water Conditions:

• Water Temperature: 65°F
• Clarity: Clear, with visibility up to 8 feet
• Water Level: Normal

Fishing Overview:

• Activity Level: Moderate to High
• Best Fishing Times: Early morning (5:00 AM – 9:00 AM) and late afternoon (4:00 PM – 8:00 PM)

Species Report:

1. Walleye:
   • Activity: High
   • Best Spots: The Bena Bar, Sugar Bay
   • Bait and Techniques:
     • Morning: Jigs tipped with minnows or leeches, fished along drop-offs and mid-lake humps.
     • Afternoon: Crankbaits trolled at a depth of 12-15 feet along weed edges.
   • Size: Average catches around 18-22 inches, with a few larger fish reported up to 26 inches.
2. Northern Pike:
   • Activity: Moderate
   • Best Spots: The North Shore, Tamarack Point
   • Bait and Techniques:
     • Morning: Spoons and spinnerbaits cast near weed beds and rocky areas.
     • Afternoon: Live bait rigs with large minnows fished along the edges of weed beds.
   • Size: Most catches between 24-30 inches, with some reports of larger fish up to 36 inches.
3. Perch:
   • Activity: High
   • Best Spots: The shallows near Star Island, South Bay
   • Bait and Techniques:
     • Morning and Afternoon: Small jigs tipped with waxworms or minnows, fished near weed beds and drop-offs.
   • Size: Average size around 10-12 inches, with some larger ones up to 14 inches.
4. Muskie:
   • Activity: Low
   • Best Spots: The deeper waters near Cut Foot Sioux, The Narrows
   • Bait and Techniques:
     • Morning and Afternoon: Large bucktails and crankbaits, fished near deep weed edges and rocky structures.
   • Size: Reports of muskies up to 45 inches.

Guide Tips:

• Walleye: Early morning bite has been the most productive. Try using a slow, steady retrieve with jigs. For afternoon fishing, trolling crankbaits has yielded good results.
• Northern Pike: Focus on areas with a mix of weeds and rocks. Spinnerbaits with bright colors have been particularly effective.
• Perch: Look for schools near shallow weed beds. Light tackle with small jigs and live bait has been very successful.
• Muskie: Patience is key. Focus on deeper waters and use larger baits to attract these elusive predators.

Overall: Fishing on Lake Winnibigoshish has been productive, with excellent walleye action in the early morning and late afternoon. Northern pike and perch are also providing good opportunities for anglers. While muskie activity is lower, there have been sightings and catches of large fish for those willing to put in the time. As always, adjust your techniques based on the conditions and the time of day for the best results.

Happy fishing, and tight lines!