Pro Fishing Tip of the Week: Plannin’ for ice-out bassin’

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Now that catch-and-release bass fishing is forever open in Minnesota, we can start bassin’ the minute the ice melts. Look for bass in any shallow water area that is the warmest in the lake.

Start by searching the north side of the lake where you will find warm, sun-beat shorelines in the 1- to 4-foot depth. Along these shores, look for wind-protected coves, bays, channels, marinas or creeks with warm water flowing into the lake. Do not ignore beaver lodges!

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My favorite cold water go-to bait is a shallow-running square-billed or lipless narrow (skinny) profiled crankbait. A 2- to 3-inch length is good. These baits may only dive 1 to 3 feet on a long cast and are snag-free.

What gets the fish is the tight, fast wiggle (which is the exact opposite of most summertime baits, which have round lips, fat bodies, and wide slow wobbles). Some good examples are the Bill Lewis Rat-L-Trap, Echo 1.75, Berkley Jack 6, Money Badger, or the War Pig.

There are countless brands to choose from. And don’t forget to vary the retrieve speeds, or my favorite, stop and go. Lots of fish! Lots of fun!

Josh Hagemeister

Years of guiding experience: 38

Favorite body of water: Ottertail, Mille Lacs, and Leech Lake.

Favorite fish to catch: Walleye and bass

Capt. Josh Hagemeister can be reached at www.minnesotaguideservice.com, or by phone at 320-291-0708 and 218-732-9919.