BATTLE LAKE
The deer season has been good, not astounding, but hunters are seeing deer. Big bucks have been scarce with numbers of smaller bucks being taken. Most hunters anticipate that the big bucks will be more active this weekend. Walleye anglers continue to catch fish with minnows over 30 to 60 feet at Otter Tail Lake and West Battle Lake. Muskie action remains strong with large sucker minnows floated over the 18- to 22-foot weeds on West Battle.
Ben’s Bait Shop (218) 864-5596
PARK RAPIDS AREA
Overall, the deer season started on a good note for most groups with many hunters reporting that they’ve seen a lot of deer. Buck activity also appears high based on hunter accounts that indicate bucks have been chasing does throughout the week. Waterfowl hunters have mentioned that northern mallards and divers moved into the area last weekend in decent numbers.
Delaney’s (218) 732-4281
PERHAM AREA
Hunters report a fair start to the season, but the rut doesn’t appear to be anywhere near its peak. Although a couple of big bucks were shot in the area, most bucks taken were sporting small racks and many groups reported limited rutting activity. There is some good waterfowl hunting to be had with mallards, redheads, canvasbacks, and ringnecks in bags this week.
Gene’s Sport Shop (218) 346-3355