Early Season Fishing Tips

Fishing opener in Minnesota is a GO, and you’re probably as ready to get out of the house and onto the water as we are! Our resident fisherman, and owner-operator of our resort tackle shop has some advice for early season fishing on Lake Vermilion.

“This time of year can be some of the best fishing on the lake! The three fish I would target right away to start the season are walleye, crappie, and northern pike. For walleye, focus on fishing deeper water, 25-40 feet, until the water warms up. Most anglers will use just a jig and regular chub or rainbow chub minnow. Jigging raps and rigs also can work.For crappie I focus in on the shallow water bays using bobbers, small jigs, powerbait, or crappie minnows.

This is some of the best pike fishing all year long, as there isn’t much weed growth and the fishing can be very good for them. The number one lure, I would say, is any type of rattle bait that makes noise. Also just trolling normal Rapalas also works.”

The resort tackle shop is stocked with live bait and all the tackle you need for walleye, crappie, and northern pike. Michael also offers rod and net rentals, as well as face shields.As we all adjust to the recent changes in the world, the resort tackle shop is also making updates. Fishing clinics will now be one-on-one, rather than in larger groups, and purchases will be recorded by a staff member, rather than in shared bill books.

Lake Vermilion’s 365 islands and hundreds of bays offer something for everyone. For help planning a trip or for any questions, feel free to call or email Michael!

He can be reached at (218) 391-9164 or m_andrews16@yahoo.com

See you on the lake!