Submitted Article

(Editor’s Note: The following article was submitted by professional guide and fisherman, Josh Hagemeister).

10 tips for Opening Day Walleye Success:

1. Fish away from the crowds. Don’t be a follower—be original;

2. Try small, shallow, “no-name”, warm lakes—especially this year (drive south?)  Don’t forget the river;

3. Stick to live bait—small/medium shiner minnows, small/medium leeches. 1/16-1/8 oz. jigs or long snelled live bait rigs.  Use stinger hooks for the infamous cold water “short hits”;

4. Fish shallower than you think—2-5ft is not uncommon—even during a sunny day;

5. Fish deeper than you think—20-35ft deep has produced on many opening day trips; 

6. Fish any possible current areas (creeks/rivers/wind) or shallow sand flats with new weed growth—day or night that’s where the forage (and feeding fish) are found;

7. Stick to blue/white/glow/green/purple/black/silver/gold for colors—all natural baitfish themes—unless the water is “chocolate” then bump it up to fluorescent orange/green or chartreuse;

8. Cover water and search out the loose groups of roaming fish.  If possible use an electric motor—stealth is important—pretend you are stalking deer in the woods;

9. Wash your hands, tiller handle, or steering wheel with no-scent soap.  Fish don’t like bacon, donuts and premium gas like we do;

10. Have fun and be respectful to fellow anglers.  No crowding or tailgating a “hot” boat.  No drinking and boating—be safe!  Bring the kids!

Lotsa Fish! Lotsa Fun!  

Minnesota Fishing Guide Service, Captain Josh Hagemeister, 320-291-0708, 218-732-9919, www.minnesotaguideservice.com, www.minnesotaicefishhouserental.com .