Kabetogama/Namakan Fishing Report 7/12/09
We had a very pleasant week of nice "Up North" weather for folks--day-time 70 degrees and night-time in the 40's. The below average temperatures have resulted in cool lake temperatures, which in turn has stretched out the Mayfly hatch and kept active fish in shallower waters than expected.
Walleye action is noted in primarily two depth ranges, evening 6 - 12' and day-time depths at 20 - 28'.
Anglers reported that leeches got the nod as the best consistent bait to offer followed by minnows. Slip-sinker rig presentations were having the most success over this past week.
Crawler action should happen if the lake gets into the 70 degree range and stays there for a spell, until then other methods are favored.
Windblown shorelines that hold emerging Mayflies and bait fish are tops. Popular spots such as Harris, Ram, Sugarbush and the Martin Islands are a few of many good locations.
The walleye aren't the only fish chasing mayfly larva so be prepared to catch smallmouth and northern pike on your venture.
East Kabetogama is seeing the deeper waters work--the 20 - 28' range along Green, Larkin and Round Bear islands have kicked out many nice multi-specie fish. The deeper water ranges at times favor the jig and minnow approach.
The crappie action has quieted down significantly, and I hope this means that pike action will heat up. Once the Mayfly hatch is completed expect northern pike to go on a feeding frenzy of sorts which will favor the pike enthusiasts that love to throw stick baits.
Casting artificials on shorelines, and of course trolling shorelines, at 15 - 18' will produce fish-- again all species. The best is yet to come!
See you soon,
Phil and Ellen Hart
Gate General
Lake Kabetogama
(218) 875-2121
www.gatewaygeneral.com
www.kabfishingreport.com