Northern Pike: Things haven’t changed much, we are still finding fish on the weed edges and in the deeper weeds. On the edges the set up should be tip ups set a foot or so off the bottom. When fishing the deep weeds, set your tip ups so that your bait is just above the tops of the weeds.
Walleye: These fish are being caught in a couple of areas, in and around weeds. Setting tip ups on the weed edges baited with walleye suckers or medium golden shiners in low light conditions seem to be best. Also, jigging in the same areas with baits like the buckshot rattle spoon are producing fish. The other good option is on the tops of rock humps for good spots in the early evening.
Panfish: Bluegills are being found in the weeds using small jigs tipped with waxies, spikes or tipped with plastic. Perch are being caught on the deep weed edge where the mud meets. Crappies are being caught in the weeds mixed in with some gills and they are still out suspended over the deeper holes and mudflats.
Happy fishing! Selective harvest is the way to go. Colin Crawford's Guide Service, [email protected] (715)891-2715. Website is www.crawfordfishing.com or you can also find Phelps Outdoors on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. NPAA #94.