Over the last few weeks, I have spent much of my time chasing Saugers and Walleyes all the way from pool 3 down to pool 8. It is always appreciated when the clients are understanding of the fishing conditions. In situations where the river gets too dirty and the Walleye can’t see your bait, you have to be willing to adjust and chase the fish down on Lake Pepin or even in other pools.

 

Once the decision of where you are fishing is made, you will likely have to change the techniques in each area. These techniques include bottom bouncing, pulling the rig, dragging jigs, or using willow cats to put Walleyes in the boat. Making adjustments is one of the biggest decisions a guide has to make. It's important to read the water, watch the shorelines for bait, and look for bait balls in deeper water of Lake Pepin. This can help you learn where the feeding fish are hanging out. Making adjustments is one of the biggest decisions a guide has to make. It's important to read the water, watch the shorelines for bait, and look for bait balls in deeper water.

 

On Lake Pepin, the Saugers and Walleyes seemed to be between the depths of 8-16 feet. The speed of the boat also plays a crucial role in catching fish. Over the past few weeks, my speeds varied between 1.3 mph to 2.7 mph as the water temperature increased. However, now the depths of the river and lake are dropping some requiring some adjustments. As of right now, my go-to technique would be bottom bouncers or pulling the rig in depths of 8-16 feet, going 1.3-2.7 mph. Always remember to check for areas with cleaner water, given the current conditions of the Mississippi.

 

I appreciate every client who chooses to enjoy their day on the water with my guide service. It brings me absolute joy to see the smiles on people's faces as they’re catching fish, even the banter the folks on the trips give each other.

 

Good luck out there, guys and gals!

Mississippi River, St. Croix River, Pool 3, Pool 4, Walleye Fishing, Sauger Fishing, Red Wing, Hastings