Minocqua Area Fishing Report 5-6-2013
By Professional Guide Kurt Justice
Well, this was the WORST opener I can recall. Not only were the opportunities limited, but, on the few places anglers could fish (either by boat or ice), the bite was terrible.
Ice Fishing: For the most part, ice fishing is over almost everywhere. Reports of two anglers falling through on Big Arb on Saturday. Reports of ice from 13" to 17" but punky and soft ice. Both anglers got out ok. Some small crappies being caught, just a few walleyes. Even the bluegill bite on Carrol shut off.
Open water: Very poor. Anglers at Murray's Landing pitched a complete shut out according to reports. Same on the Rainbow Flowage. The only good reports came from Tomahawk where water temps in low 40's (vs. mid to upper 30's up north) put walleyes in a biting mood.
The one bright spot. Casting Rattlin Rogues and Floating Rapalas after dark from shore has produced some big walleyes from 25-29". These full of spawn females were released, but the few fortunate anglers working this bite also caught some eater males. This method should work well all week.
As of this morning (5/6), nearly every lake is still ice covered but the ice is black and melting quickly with the 70 degree temps. The bite is soon to go from 0-60 as shallow water temps hit that 42-45 degree mark. These female walleyes have been holding their eggs a long time and are more than ready to spawn. Expect some fantastic fishing by mid week and through the weekend.
The Willow Flowage by the dam is open to launch, but too much ice to get anywhere. Pike Lake is open to the south, but can't get to Turner or Amik. We will continue to update our website regularly as conditions change.
Kurt Justice
Kurt’s Island Sport Shop
www.kurtsislandsports.com