Detroit Lakes Fishing and Ice Report (2/10/26)
- Brady Baxter
- Feb 10
- 2 min read
Thanks to all of you anglers that braved the wind and the tough bite to make this year’s Poles N Holes Fishing tournament a success. I met a lot of great anglers who stepped inside the fish houses I had on the ice for a moment to chat, and to warm up! I look forward to seeing you all again at next year’s derby.
While the fishing was a little tough this past week, the bite should improve soon with consistent mild weather in the forecast. Big walleyes and crappies continue to roam the shallow weeds alone at night but both species are also suspended in up to 30’ chasing baitfish (yes, walleyes too!). Suspended crappies are usually schooled up, but suspended walleyes are alone and aggressive. Smaller eater walleye can be found deeper, often in the same location, up to 30’, along with perch and some gills. Fathead and shiner minnows on a simple hook and sinker setup is the ticket for all species, while waxies are also working for panfish.
Lastly, main lake ice is very thick on many lakes (often over 2 feet thick!) but, with warm weather, it is important to enter onto area lakes very slowly to prevent the deterioration of the ice near shore and allow standing water to refreeze overnight. Don’t be alarmed, be informed! Together we can keep accesses in good shape. Right now, the access near the J & K marina has two paths. There is a small, shallow pool of water at the beginning of the eastern path, but the other path is in great shape. Also, the public access near Zorbaz has been plowed, which is great news! It is a little bumpy, so take it slow. This access will help take some pressure off the access by J & K marina.
Get on out on the ice the next 10 days—it’s going to be wonderful weather. Thanks for reading and good luck fishing!
(Full disclosure—we caught a lot of great fish this in the DL area this past week but the picture of Randy Hunter’s 29 7/8th” walleye from Lake of the Woods was too awesome to pass up. I have a lot of respect for Randy as he refused to round up to 30”, like most anglers would. You’re in the club, as far as I’m concerned. Thanks for the picture!)
The Baxstar houses are booking up, but there are still days (and weekends) available in some houses. Two things to note: Our 17’ Ice Castle Hybrid II for $750 + tax/fees for a Friday-Sunday reservation. It’s a great deal on a great house. The most exciting news is the new 24’ Ice Castle that was added to our lineup last week. It is available for a limited time only—just 3 weeks! You can book this beautiful and spacious house online any time. Just click below, or contact me at 701-261-3703.
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