Mayfly don’t bother me!
After another successful week of fishing in the Ely area, some lakes are starting to experience the annual Mayfly hatch. While this occurrence has affected fishing for some, others have had no problems finding their limits of walleyes and bass. The walleye bite on Fall Lake has been exceptional, with Packsack anglers finding their limits of good sized walleyes just at the Power Dam. Pipestone Bay, and Jackfish Bay of Basswood Lake are also producing steady amounts of quality fish. Walleyes are starting to move to deeper water but smaller fish are still being caught in shallow 8-12 feet of water. Jumbo leaches and crawlers have been the bait of choice this week, as folks using artificial for walleyes did struggle to catch fish.
Smallmouth Bass action has been hot as the spawn is wrapping up and the fish are smashing top water lures. Some larger fish are starting to lurk in deeper waters and going after leaches and crawlers as well. Reports of a 22-inch and a 20-inch fish came back from Pipestone and Packsack anglers have caught fish in the 15-18-inch range on Fall Lake.
If you’re coming to the area to target big pike, then you are in luck! Many Packsack anglers have had the large toothy giants come up from the depths to attack their spoons and spinners, causing an intense fight like no other! With all fish 30-40 inches in length being released, the northern pike action will only get better as years go on.
Fishing around the BWCA paddle lakes has been hit and miss. The mayfly hatch has been the blamed culprit on lakes off of the Echo Trail and off the Kawishiwi River. Still, many BWCA trekkers have found plenty of fish to catch and eat.
If you’re coming to the Ely area this weekend, bring some worms and go after some panfish. Back Bay and Ella Hall have been hot for sunnies and crappie! You’ll be happy you did!
Have a safe and sunny week!