Episodios

  • Walleye Blitz on the Mississippi River - A Fishing Report for May 24, 2025

    Walleye Blitz on the Mississippi River - A Fishing Report for May 24, 2025
    May 24 2025
    Hey folks, Artificial Lure here with your Mississippi River fishing report for this beautiful Saturday morning, May 24th, 2025.

    The Mississippi River is absolutely on fire right now for walleye anglers in the Minneapolis area! These fish are in a transitional period, and they're really biting despite some challenging weather we've had lately with wind and cold conditions[1][2].

    Water levels are running a bit lower than normal due to our relatively dry winter and spring. This creates some great fishing opportunities, but keep your eyes peeled for navigational hazards when you're out boating.

    For today, we're looking at a decent day to be on the water. The walleye and sauger action has been particularly strong in Pool 2 from Ford Dam to Hastings Dam. Remember, it's catch-and-release only for walleye, sauger, and bass in Pool 2, but the action is well worth it[5].

    The post-spawn walleye are still hanging around in the Rainy River, and fishing reports have been very good this past week[4]. If you're heading out today, focus on the tailwater habitats below the locks and dams where the bite has been most consistent[5].

    Channel and flathead catfish numbers are excellent throughout the pools, and they're becoming more active as water temperatures climb. White bass action is picking up nicely too[5].

    For you pike anglers, the lower water levels have concentrated these predators, making for some productive fishing. You'll find quality pike in the backwaters and connected lakes[5].

    Don't sleep on the panfish either! Bluegill, crappie, and bass populations are showing good numbers with quality-sized fish. With the reduced ice fishing pressure this past winter, the open water angling has been exceptional[5].

    For hot spots, I'd recommend trying below the Ford Dam early morning, where walleyes have been hitting jigs tipped with minnows. Another productive area has been near the confluence with the Minnesota River, where the mixing waters create a prime feeding zone.

    Lure-wise, jigs in the 1/8 to 1/4 oz range tipped with fathead minnows or plastics have been producing well. For those targeting catfish, cut bait and stinkbaits are your best bet in the deeper holes.

    The panfish have been responding well to small jigs tipped with waxworms or tiny crappie minnows.

    Get out there while the bite is hot! This is Artificial Lure signing off, and remember – the worst day fishing still beats the best day working!
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    3 m
  • Midwest Fishing: Walleye, Sauger, and Catfish Sizzle on the Mississippi River in Minneapolis

    Midwest Fishing: Walleye, Sauger, and Catfish Sizzle on the Mississippi River in Minneapolis
    May 23 2025
    Artificial Lure here with your Mississippi River fishing report for Minneapolis, Friday, May 23, 2025.

    We kicked off the morning with sunrise at 5:54 AM and we’ll see sunset around 8:24 PM, so there’s a solid stretch of daylight for you to get after it. The weather’s cooperating nicely, with mild spring temps and stable conditions. River levels remain a touch lower than average thanks to another dry spring, so boaters and waders should keep an eye out for exposed rocks and snags, especially around shallow runs. No tides to worry about on the river, but you’ll find steady flows and classic late May patterns holding up.

    Pool 2—from the Ford Dam down to Hastings—is still the spot for active fish. Word is the walleye and sauger bite is really rolling. Most anglers are running jigs tipped with fathead minnows or plastics, and those working crankbaits in the early mornings and evenings have reported solid hits. Crankbaits in shad or firetiger patterns are productive. Pool 2 is catch-and-release only for walleye, sauger, and bass, but the numbers of quality fish make it a fun zone for anyone looking to do some CPR fishing. Just below the dams and near current breaks have been especially hot for these species lately[2][5][1].

    Catfish crews are seeing good numbers of both channel and flathead cats. Cut bait, nightcrawlers, and stinkbaits have all been getting bit, especially as water temps nudge upward. Try anchoring just upstream of deeper holes or along riprap for your best shot at a whiskered heavyweight[5].

    Pike are concentrated in the backwaters and connecting lakes due to low river levels, so don’t skip the sloughs. Spinnerbaits and large swimbaits are turning up nice fish. Meanwhile, the white bass bite is picking up with small spoons and twister tails—you’ll find them chasing baitfish near sandbars and mouths of feeder creeks[5].

    For panfish, stick to shoreline cover and backwater bays; waxworms and small jigs have worked well.

    Hot spots worth checking include the tailwaters below the Ford Dam, the confluence around Minnehaha Creek, and the deeper bends near Hidden Falls Park. All have been producing this week, especially for multi-species action.

    That’s the river report for today. Be safe out there, keep an eye on the water levels, and tight lines from Artificial Lure.
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    3 m
  • Late Spring Fishing Report from the Mississippi River in Minneapolis

    Late Spring Fishing Report from the Mississippi River in Minneapolis
    May 21 2025
    Good morning anglers, Artificial Lure reporting from the banks of the Mississippi River in Minneapolis for May 21, 2025.

    We are enjoying a stretch of classic late spring weather today, with sunrise coming right around 5:54 AM and sunset expected at 8:24 PM. It is a mild morning out here, with steady conditions and no rain in the forecast. Winds are light, so you can expect easy casting and manageable drifts all day long. River flows are typical for this time of year, running a bit lower than average due to a dry winter and spring, so keep an eye out for submerged rocks and new snags if you’re navigating by boat or wading. There’s no tidal action to worry about here in Minneapolis, but the steady current should keep fish on the move and looking to feed[3][4].

    The main story right now is Pool 2, from the Ford Dam downstream to Hastings. This stretch is producing strong numbers of walleye and sauger, especially below the dams and along current breaks. Remember, it’s catch-and-release only for walleye, sauger, and bass in Pool 2, but the sheer numbers and size make it worth the trip. Most folks are finding good success with jigs tipped with minnows or soft plastics, but don’t overlook crankbaits, especially in the low-light hours of early morning and late evening[3][4].

    The catfish bite is heating up too, with both channel and flathead catfish turning active as water temps rise. Nightcrawlers and cut bait fished on the bottom around deeper holes and current seams are getting quick results. If you’re after white bass, their action is picking up around the mouths of creeks and at the base of dams, especially when using small crankbaits or curly tail grubs cast into the current[4].

    Pike fishing has been productive in the backwaters and connected lakes, thanks to the lower water levels concentrating these fish. Try spinnerbaits and spoons near weed edges for your best shot at a trophy. Panfish anglers are finding above average numbers of bluegill and crappie in the slack water and near submerged wood—small jigs and live waxworms are local favorites right now[4].

    Hot spots to target today include the tailwaters below the Ford Dam for walleye and sauger action, and the backwater channels near Hidden Falls and Minneapolis Rowing Club for pike, panfish, and the occasional big catfish.

    All signs point to an outstanding day on the river, so grab your jig box and a bucket of minnows and enjoy the bite. As always, keep an eye out for shifting sandbars and respect the catch-and-release regs in Pool 2. Tight lines, and see you on the water[3][4].
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    3 m
  • Mississippi River Minneapolis Fishing Report May 2025: Walleye, Sauger, Catfish Action Abounds

    Mississippi River Minneapolis Fishing Report May 2025: Walleye, Sauger, Catfish Action Abounds
    May 19 2025
    Artificial Lure here with your fishing report for the Mississippi River around Minneapolis for May 19, 2025.

    Today’s conditions are looking good for an enjoyable day on the water. Sunrise was at 5:54 AM with sunset expected around 8:24 PM, giving anglers plenty of daylight for fishing. The weather is mild and stable, typical springtime with comfortable temperatures, making it perfect to spend time along the riverbanks or in a boat. The river levels remain a bit lower than usual due to a dry winter and spring, so watch out for rocks and snags if you’re navigating the river[3][4].

    There’s no tidal movement on the Mississippi as it’s a large river system, but water flow is steady and consistent, which helps keep fish active. Overall fish activity is high right now, especially for walleye and sauger, as they are in a transitional period and moving into prime bite zones. The walleye and sauger fishing is especially productive in Pool 2, which runs from Ford Dam down to Hastings. Here, the bite is steady below the dams and near current breaks. Anglers are finding success using jigs tipped with live minnows or soft plastics. Crankbaits are also a top choice during early mornings and evenings. Remember, Pool 2 is catch-and-release for walleye, sauger, and bass, but the numbers and quality of fish make it well worth fishing there[1][3][4].

    Channel and flathead catfish are also showing good numbers this time of year, and they tend to get more active as water temperatures climb. White bass action is picking up nicely too. For panfish fans, bluegill, crappie, and bass are all biting well this season, with good population sizes and quality fish available after a winter with less ice fishing pressure[4][5].

    If you're looking for hotspots, I recommend:

    - Just below Ford Dam in Pool 2: Current breaks here concentrate walleye and sauger.
    - Backwaters and connected lakes in Pool 2: These are great for pike and catfish, especially where lower water levels have concentrated fish[3][4].

    In terms of the best bait and lures to use, jigs tipped with minnows are top-notch for walleye and sauger. Soft plastics that imitate small baitfish also work well. Crankbaits in natural colors are a solid choice when fishing early or late in the day. For catfish, try stinkbaits or cut bait along the bottom near structure and deeper holes. Panfish will respond well to small jigs and live worms or crickets.

    In sum, this is a fantastic time to be fishing the Mississippi River around Minneapolis. With good weather, steady flow, and active fish, your chances of landing walleye, sauger, catfish, pike, and panfish are high. Just be mindful of the lower water levels when boating or wading. Get out there and enjoy the bite! Artificial Lure signing off[1][3][4][5].
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    3 m
  • Hot Walleye Bite on the Mississippi River - Panfish and Catfish Also Cooperating

    Hot Walleye Bite on the Mississippi River - Panfish and Catfish Also Cooperating
    May 18 2025
    Hey folks, Artificial Lure here with your Mississippi River fishing report for Sunday, May 18th, 2025.

    Let me tell you, the Mississippi River is absolutely on fire right now for walleye fishing in both Minnesota and Wisconsin sections. These walleyes are in a transitional period which has created some fantastic angling opportunities.

    The weather today is looking favorable for a day on the water. With water levels running a bit lower than normal due to our relatively dry winter and spring, you'll want to keep an eye out for navigational hazards, especially if you're bringing the boat out.

    Pool 2 from Ford Dam to Hastings Dam continues to produce exceptional walleye and sauger action. Remember though, it's catch-and-release only for walleye, sauger, and bass in this section, but the action makes it well worth your time. The tailwater habitat below the locks and dams has been particularly productive.

    Panfish are also biting strong right now, with bluegill and crappie populations showing good numbers and quality-sized fish. This is partly thanks to reduced ice fishing pressure this past winter due to poor conditions.

    Channel and flathead catfish numbers are excellent throughout the pools, and they're becoming increasingly active as water temperatures continue to climb. White bass action is picking up nicely too.

    For pike anglers, the low water levels have concentrated the fish, making for some productive fishing in the backwaters and connected lakes.

    If you're looking for hot spots, I'd recommend focusing on the tailwaters below the dams for walleye. The bite has been especially good there. For panfish, check out the backwater areas with structure.

    As for bait and lures, jigs tipped with minnows have been working great for walleye in the current transitional period. Crankbaits and spinners are also producing when trolled along current breaks.

    For those heading to other waters in the region, Rainy River has been reporting great walleye action with plenty of nice fish still in the river, including big fish, slots, and eaters.

    This is Artificial Lure signing off. Tight lines, everyone, and I hope to see you on the water this beautiful Sunday!
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    2 m
  • Mississippi River Fishing Report: Walleye on Fire, Panfish Biting Strong in Minneapolis

    Mississippi River Fishing Report: Walleye on Fire, Panfish Biting Strong in Minneapolis
    May 17 2025
    Artificial Lure here with your Mississippi River fishing report for Minneapolis, Saturday, May 17, 2025. We've got ourselves another beautiful spring morning on the river, with stable conditions that are just perfect for getting some lines wet today.

    Sunrise was at 5:37 AM this morning, and we're looking at sunset around 8:36 PM, giving you plenty of daylight hours to work with. No tides to worry about on our mighty Mississippi, but water levels are still running a bit lower than usual after our dry winter and spring, so keep an eye out for rocks and snags if you're boating or wading today.

    The walleye action is absolutely on fire right now across Wisconsin and Minnesota sections of the river. These fish are in what we call a transitional period, moving from their spring patterns toward summer locations. Pool 2, from the Ford Dam down to Hastings, remains your best bet for consistent action. Just remember, it's catch-and-release only for walleye, sauger, and bass in Pool 2, but the quality and numbers make it well worth your time.

    What's working? Jigs tipped with minnows or plastics are producing steady catches, especially around current breaks and just below the dams. Crankbaits have also been hot tickets, particularly during early mornings and evenings when these fish are most active. If you're heading out today, focus on those current seams and transition areas where walleyes are staging.

    The panfish bite is running above average this year too. We're seeing quality-sized bluegill, crappie, and bass throughout the system. For the best panfish action, target backwater areas and side channels where the water's had a chance to warm up a bit more.

    For hot spots, I'd recommend trying the stretch just below the Ford Dam early in the morning for some trophy walleye action. Later in the day, the wing dams near Grey Cloud Island have been consistently producing nice catches. If you're after some good eating fish, the backwaters around Pike Island have been giving up some beautiful crappies.

    One last tip from a local: with our lower water levels, some of those classic fishing spots are fishing differently this year. Don't be afraid to adjust your depth and presentation if your favorite spot isn't producing like normal.

    That's your Mississippi River report for today, May 17. Good luck out there, stay safe, and as we always say around here, "Keep your line tight and your stories tighter!"
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    3 m
  • Springtime Action on the Mississippi River Around Minneapolis

    Springtime Action on the Mississippi River Around Minneapolis
    May 16 2025
    Artificial Lure here with your Friday, May 16, 2025, fishing report for the Mississippi River around Minneapolis.

    It’s been a gorgeous stretch of spring. Sunrise was at 5:54 AM, and sunset will be around 8:24 PM, offering a long, productive day on the water. Skies are partly cloudy, and morning temps are sitting in the low 60s, climbing into the mid-70s by afternoon. River levels remain slightly lower than normal after a dry winter and spring, so if you’re boating or wading, watch out for rocks and snags—especially near the shorelines and wing dams. There’s no tidal movement here in Minneapolis, but steady flows are creating classic spring conditions for fishing[2].

    Pool 2, spanning from the Ford Dam down to Hastings, is the main hot spot. Just remember it’s catch-and-release only for walleye, sauger, and bass, but the action is nonstop. The walleye and sauger bite has been excellent, with fish stacked up below the dams and around current breaks. Anglers are loading up using jigs tipped with minnows or plastics, and crankbaits are really turning on during low-light hours—early mornings and right before sunset seem best[2][1][5].

    On the panfish front, it’s been a fantastic spring for bluegill and crappie, with bass numbers up as well. These fish are holding in backwaters and shallow slack areas with plenty of cover. Small tube jigs, soft plastics, and live worms are putting numbers in the boat[4][5]. The catfish population—both channel and flathead—remains strong, with fish biting cut bait or live chubs near deep holes and current seams. If you’re after a fight, now’s a great time to target these whiskerfish[5].

    A couple of local hot spots to try: below the Ford Dam (Lock and Dam No. 1) for walleye and sauger, and the deep holes near the confluence with Minnehaha Creek for catfish. The backwaters near Pike Island are loaded with panfish and occasional bass.

    Today’s best bets for lures are jigs with fathead minnows or paddletail plastics for walleye and sauger, crankbaits during dawn and dusk, and cut bait or big live bait for catfish. For panfish, try small jigs or a slip bobber with live bait[1][2][5].

    Conditions are ideal for spring action, and with warmer weather settling in, fish activity should stay strong all weekend. Good luck, keep your lines tight, and enjoy everything the river has to offer today.
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    3 m
  • Midweek Mississippi Fishing Report: Walleye, Sauger, and Pike Bite on Pool 2 in Minneapolis

    Midweek Mississippi Fishing Report: Walleye, Sauger, and Pike Bite on Pool 2 in Minneapolis
    May 14 2025
    Artificial Lure here with your Mississippi River fishing report for Minneapolis, Wednesday, May 14, 2025.

    Folks, we've got ourselves a fine mid-May morning on the mighty Mississippi! Temperatures are mild as we continue enjoying this beautiful spring season. The sun rose about 5:47 AM today and won't set until around 8:30 PM, giving you anglers plenty of daylight to work with.

    River conditions remain on the low side following our drier than normal winter and spring. Water levels are running below average, so watch those hazards if you're boating or wading. No tidal movement here in our freshwater paradise, but current flows are steady and predictable.

    The walleye and sauger action continues to be strong in Pool 2 from the Ford Dam down to Hastings. Remember, this stretch is catch-and-release only for walleye, sauger, and bass, but the numbers make it worth your while. Jigs tipped with minnows or plastics are still producing well, especially during the early morning hours. Crankbaits have been hot tickets too during the evening transition periods.

    Based on recent reports, some nice northern pike are showing up in the slower backwaters. Try spinnerbaits or large minnows under a bobber if you're targeting these toothy critters.

    For hot spots, I'd recommend focusing on the current breaks just below the dams, particularly in the early morning. The deep holes near Grey Cloud Island have been producing consistently as well. If you're shore fishing, the stretch near Hidden Falls Park has been giving up some decent smallmouth bass.

    Bait selection has been pretty straightforward - minnows are always a good bet this time of year, but don't overlook nightcrawlers, especially if you're after some of those channel cats that are starting to become more active with the warming water.

    The DNR reports that last fall and winter saw excellent walleye activity in connected waterways, and those patterns seem to be holding so far this spring, despite our lower water levels.

    One more tip from a local: with our current conditions, focus on the deeper channels during daylight hours, then move to the shallower flats as evening approaches. The fish are following that pattern like clockwork.

    Remember to check your regulations before heading out, and don't forget your sunscreen - that May sun can fool you!

    This is Artificial Lure signing off until tomorrow. Tight lines, friends!
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    3 m
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