Southwest MInnesota Fishing Report – October 12th, 2012

FAIRMONT AREA

The bigger walleyes have started hitting crankbaits or minnows at Hall Lake and Lake Sissiton in shallow water during the evening hours or 10 feet during the day. Budd Lake and Sissiton are producing crappies and perch in 10 to 12 feet of water. There seems to be ducks in the area and with the corn mostly out of the fields, pheasant hunting options should be good this weekend.
Sommer Outdoors (507) 235-5225

MANKATO AREA

A jig and minnow is producing walleyes on Lake Washington in 18 feet and at Lake Hanska in eight to 10 feet. The deep holes of the Minnesota River and Blue Earth River are holding walleyes and catfish. Look to Washington for panfish in four to eight feet. The ponds that still hold water are holding ducks and there are geese being shot in the fields.
The Bobber Shop (507) 625-8228

ORTONVILLE AREA

The wind has limited fishing activity, but anglers fishing from shore at the Pumphouse and Peninsula areas of Big Stone Lake are catching perch and a few walleyes on minnows and jigs. The Highway 75 dam area of the Minnesota River is giving up northern pike, walleyes, and crappies on jigs tipped with minnows or plastics. There hasn’t been a big push of new ducks into the area, but there has been more geese moving through.
Bud’s Bait (320) 839-2480

STARBUCK AREA

Walleyes are hitting a jig and minnow in 12 to 14 feet off the points, Glenwood Beach area, and Starbuck Beach on Lake Minnewaska. Anglers fishing from shore on the west side of Lake Emily are catching walleyes on minnows. Hunting reports have been limited due to a lack of participation.
Minnewaska Bait and Tackle               (320) 239-2239

WILLMAR AREA

Minnows are producing walleyes at Green Lake in 20 to 40 feet. A few walleyes also can be had with minnows in 10 to 18 feet on lakes Andrew, Florida, Diamond, and Eagle. Panfish and bass reports have been limited. Duck numbers have dwindled now that most local birds are gone, but field hunters are shooting quite a few geese.
Brad’s 71 Bait and Sports (320) 235-4097