Crappies and bluegills are in the process of setting up in the shallows to feed heavily before they spawn in a few weeks. They can be found right now suspended in the 10-20 ft range in the colder lakes, but if you can find water temps in the 50’s they will be in the 5-8 ft zone or shallower. I have been catching some really nice fish with groups in the the 3-5 ft range all week using floats and minnows or small plastics. Look for the fish around downed trees, beaver lodges or any kind of weed cover—dead or alive. Boat canals or in front of inflowing creeks will hold fish as well due to warmer water. Suspend your baits well above the bottom and if no fish are caught in a few minutes move and cover water.
Capt. Josh Hagemeister, Minnesota Fishing Guide Service, 218-732-9919, www.minnesotaguideservice.com
