Wind has been a major factor this week. Some areas of the lake have become too dirty to fish, while other areas that were previously too clean are now coming into play. Water color always seems to be a bit of a battle during May and June.
We should start seeing more algae develop in the coming weeks, which will help stain the water. Once that happens, much more of the lake becomes fishable and anglers will have a lot more options.
Bottom bouncers and spinners are getting better almost daily. As the weeds continue to establish, trolling spinner rigs along weed edges is starting to shine.
Our preferred setup:
Half a crawler or Gulp! on the spinner
Gold
Chartreuse
Around 1 mph
Bobbers and leeches remain a standby. It’s a technique that can truly produce from ice-out to ice-up on Devils Lake. Knock on wood, the trappers haven’t had any issues keeping us stocked with leeches this summer, and the cooler temperatures this week should help.
Start looking at offshore structure over the next several days and weeks. Fish should begin showing up on more traditional summertime spots. When fishing bobbers and leeches, don’t be afraid to move. Give a spot about 30 minutes, and if nothing happens, head to the next one.
Shore fishing reports have improved this week as well. Focus on pinch points, bridges, and flooded roads. Mornings and evenings are usually best.
Try fishing a dead stick with a leech or crawler on a Lindy rig or jig while casting a paddle tail and jig with your other rod.
White bass reports continue to be strong. Shore anglers are finding success during the evening hours on wind-blown shorelines and around current. Anglers in boats are catching fish in back bays along developing weed lines.
Top presentations:
• Crankbaits
• Hair jigs
• Spoons
Pike are beginning to slow down as water temperatures rise. There are still fish being caught shallow around weeds, but they’re not quite as active as they were a week or two ago.
We have leeches, crawlers, and minnows in stock!
Head to Ed’s!