Kabetogama/Namakan Fishing Report 6/1/08
Spring has sprung as summer starts to move in. Cabbage weeds are surfacing providing cover for game fish.
The shallow water bite is beginning to give way to reefs and deeper structured shorelines. Slow jig and minnow rhythms or slow slip-sinker presentations with leech or minnow appears to grab the walleye's attention.
Best depths for walleye, try 8-15' mornings and evenings, concentrating on sand and gravel windswept shores and points.
Mid-day, and as the water warms, head to the reef structures keying in on 26-32' depths. Anglers report success on both jig heads and slip-sinker rigs.
A tip for using leeches at this time is to use a floating jig head or put a floater on the line to keep the bait up about 3'+ off the bottom.
Northern pike bite is still on the slow side, a good time to step up to artificial bait; troll shorelines at about a 12-15' depth.
Crappie action should be starting now that the water temperature is remaining in the high 50's and low 60's.
East end of Kabetogama usually provides better crappie opportunities. Minnow and a small jig or a slip-bobber rig will work best.
Have a Great Day!
Ellen & Phil Hart
Gateway General
9378 Hwy 53
Kabetogama, MN 56669