Recent up-and-down weather has made shore fishing for panfish a hit-and-miss affair in Minnesota. One day it’s 80 degrees followed by two days in the 40s or low 50s. Because of these temperature fluctuations, I’m finding that the panfish move in for a day or so, then retreat quickly to deep water.
Steve Carney: Spring crappie fishing… when docks and shorelines shine Read More »
It’ll be hard to predict the success for the May 9 opener, still more than two weeks out, as our fickle weather recently has been so incredibly inconsistent. One step forward and two steps back.
By late last week, ice on the larger lakes had just about disappeared, though it seems the ice-out overall in north country has trended on the late side.
Steve Carney: Tips for Minnesota’s May 9, 2026 walleye opener Read More »
April and May on western Minnesota’s Lake Traverse is always a great option for multiple sportfish species well before the inland (May 9) fishing opener.
I have been fishing this fine lake for 35-plus years, and it has undergone many changes, some good, some not so good. I just returned from my first spring day trip there with mixed results.
Steve Carney: Early spring conditions on Lake Traverse Read More »
Things have opened up on the Rainy River in northern Minnesota and the crowds have descended.
This is one of the most unique fisheries in the Midwest, and it’s a great fishery to bag a true trophy walleye. Get ready to join the crowds. Here are some tips for fishing the Rainy.
Steve Carney: Springtime gusto on Minnesota’s remarkable Rainy River Read More »
April on the Missouri River is my favorite time of the open water season. This is when the spawn gets going – during these first few weeks of the month.
Things on the river radically change when the water temperatures reach 44 degrees, meaning the male walleyes head to the rip-rap, rock areas, and congregate in big numbers. Large females also roam the spawning areas but mostly at night.
Steve Carney: Keys to incredible April walleye fishing on the Missouri River Read More »
Wow, things have changed on the Missouri River!
Back in the day I was one of a handful of anglers there, and it was rare to see anyone, even the locals. The crowds have changed dramatically, probably because the fishing is so good.
Steve Carney: Avoiding the masses key on the Missouri River Read More »
Mercifully, the ice fishing season is over – mercifully because the 2025-26 season kept me moving! It was a terrific season as the ice conditions were the best I’d seen in 10 years.
But now it’s time to store the gear and “summarize” the basics. Here’s a checklist on my forthcoming duties.
Steve Carney: Gear storage tips after ice-fishing season Read More »
The ice fishing season has been long and productive in Minnesota, and I am spending most of my time preparing for the switch from ice to open water.
Three months on the ice was enough although it was a great season with super ice conditions. But it’s time to make the transition! Here are some of usual tasks that I tackle at this time in mid-March.
Steve Carney: Think ahead to open water; and concerns of low water levels Read More »
There is little doubt that “inline” ice reels are here to stay. The popularity of these new-age rod-and-reel combinations has grown and many of my buddies use them. I remain mildly unconvinced. I have tried four brands of inline rod-and-reel combos this season and they just don’t perform for me.
Steve Carney: Inline vs. classic spinning reels over the ice! Read More »
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