Introduction to Leech Lake

Hello,

For all you new Team Walleye members, and even some of you older folks, here is an article I wrote for our website a few years back. Look for some new posts in the future. Thanks, Dave

Leech Lake is a very diverse body of water which identifies itself as a premier walleye lake in Minnesota. From rocky shorelines to windswept points, there are always opportunities to find active fish in a number of classic locations on Leech. We will explore those locations, discuss the specific structure, and offer ideas which could influence your fishing success.

Perhaps the best know of these locations are the windswept points located throughout the lake. Areas such as Pine Point, Ottertail, Big and Little Hardwoods, Stoney Point, and Duck Point are excellent examples of areas that are subjected to the effects of the wind and waves. Wind and waves tend to concentrate baitfish, reduce water clarity (light penetration) and create currents within the structure. These factors play a role in concentrating schools of walleye. One important factor is that most points are also adjacent to prime spawning areas. After spawn, walleyes tend to hang near the shallow structure next to these spawning areas. These points often have large 8 – 12 foot flat areas which are ideal for post spawn walleyes. In some situations like large wave conditions, a mud line will actually form on these points creating an ideal location to target walleyes. A bright chartreuse colored jig/minnow becomes an excellent presentation as you enter the mud line.

Another prime area during opener can be the large pre-emergent flat areas near the shorelines. West Goose Flats, Star Point and Steamboat Bay are excellent examples of this type of structure. Walleyes tend to scatter in these areas after spawning and are often on the prowl. These areas also hold good populations of northern pike and perch. Again dragging Lindy Rigs and minnow tipped jigs tend to be the main presentation. These areas produce well when the water temperature is warmer, say 55 degrees.

When fishing gets real tough, one of the go to spots is Snake Pit Flats. This is a deeper area where large females tend to hang out right after the spawn. Look for the some of the steeper drop off areas to begin your presentation. The name Snake Pit Flats lives up to its name. The northern pike bite can be excellent in this area with some very nice fish coming out of the deeper water.

Rocky shorelines, points and reefs offer another specific type of structure for locating old marble eyes. These areas tend to be the spot on the spot as part of another structure like Stoney Point, Ottertail Point and Goose Island. Rock areas are generally found closer to shore and near the first drop off. The rocks can prove difficult to fish but one can be successful using bottom bouncers, vertical jigging techniques as well as trolling crankbaits (covered last month). In addition to these areas are stand alone rock structures like Submarine Reef. Although somewhat farther from our base camp, Submarine Reef offers excellent lake sucker fishing, especially on a calm clear day. Thousands of fish engulf the reef and can provide an excellent alternative that might just save your day. Throw a crawfish colored crankbait and hang on!

There are countless areas in Leech Lake to fish. Do not be afraid to venture out and explore. Who knows, you may just discover the next new hot spot for Team Walleye!